Medical coders perform one of the most important tasks in the healthcare office. Coders read and analyze medical charts, determine patient diagnoses, verify if procedures were performed, and then categorize the information according to a national classification system. This in-depth certificate includes instruction in medical office skills and HIPAA regulations.
The Medical Coding certificate program prepares students to work with healthcare organizations that provide treatment and services to patients. It teaches students how to use the CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 CM code books. Basic coding involves selecting codes when the procedure is straightforward and clearly defined and when the diagnosis is known. Instruction in basic coding includes locating codes, selecting the most appropriate codes, and performing some billing calculations. This certificate also prepares students to take the CPC examination to become nationally certified coders. Students must pass all classes within this certificate with a C+ or above. The program content also provides students with basic medical office skills, including HIPAA regulations, health information management, and patient scheduling. The certificate program prepares students to work with hospitals, clinics, and health insurance companies to organize and maintain data, review patient records, track patient outcomes, and electronically record data with great accuracy, all of which are key to optimal reimbursement.
The certificate allows students to transfer credits into the Associate of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an Area of Concentration in Medical Coding.
Expected student outcomes include:
- Use the CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 CM code books to select the appropriate codes.
- Perform basic billing calculations.
- Differentiate between procedure codes and diagnosis codes.
- Apply appropriate medical terminology to select correct codes.
- Successfully code procedures and encounter forms presented in class.
- Perform basic administrative duties.