Become a Certified Medical Billing and Coding SpecialistMedical billing and coding is a rising star in the healthcare field today. This 100% online course will prepare you to start a career in this high-demand occupation and earn the medical billing and coding professional certification that best aligns with your interest and career goals. You’ll learn how to use the Healthcare Common procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes. Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on practice using medical billing and coding software. Upon course completion, you’ll receive a voucher for the certification exam of your choice: CPC, CCA or CBCS. Show
Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists
Medical Billing and Coding FAQsWHAT DOES A MEDICAL BILLER AND CODER DO?Medical Billers and Coders are responsible for processing patient data including medical records and related insurance. In this position, you will code a patient’s diagnosis and then request payment from the patient’s insurance company. You will play an important role in ensuring that healthcare providers are quickly and accurately paid for the treatment they give patients. IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MEDICAL BILLING AND A MEDICAL CODING?Yes. Medical coders translate patient care into current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the medical services provided are accurately coded. Medical billers are responsible for creating a claim based on the codes a medical coder provides. Many professionals in this area do both medical billing and medical coding. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING CAREER?Entry-level positions typically require completion of a certificate and passing one of the certification exams or an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. Additionally, medical billing and coding professionals must understand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A MEDICAL BILLER AND CODER?In most cases, it takes between one and three years to become a medical biller and coder. Earning a medical billing and coding certification can take up to one year, while earning an associate degree can take up to three years. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CERTIFICATION EXAMS (CPC, CCA, AND CBCS)?Obtaining a CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification implies that an individual has met competencies in the field of medical billing and coding. Certification is invaluable to the student’s career goals. Students have an opportunity to make confident, informed decisions about the national certification they prefer. The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is the gold standard entry-level coding certification for physician, or professional fee, coders. The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is an entry-level medical coding certification across all settings–physician practices and inpatient hospital. The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is currently an entry-level medical billing certification for physician practices. In the summer of 2021, the exam will transition to an entry-level billing and coding certification, with the inclusion of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II testing. IS MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING A GOOD CAREER?U.S. News & World Report ranked medical records technician (professionals that perform medical billing, medical coding or both) as #9 on its list of “25 Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree,” #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs” and on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list. Course Objectives
Prerequisites and RequirementsThere are no prerequisites to take this course. Curriculum
InstructorsNancy SmithNancy Smith has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Her clinical experience includes working as a medical assistant for a network of rural health clinics, and as a medical coder, insurance claims specialist, and medical records auditor. Nancy holds a bachelor’s degree in vocational education and has developed and taught medical assistant programs. LaTisha CottinghamLaTisha Cottingham has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She has six years of teaching experience in the field of medical billing and coding and Medical Assisting. Currently she is employed as an HIM Analyst for a long-term care establishment that is based out of Alabama. Registration and EnrollmentThis course is 100% online. Start anytime. Which certification is best for medical billing and coding?Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
Offered by the AAPC, the CPC certification is the most popular in the medical coding field. It covers multiple aspects of the profession, including procedure codes for coding and billing for medical claims in a physician's office.
How long does it take to get a coding certificate?How long does it take to get a certificate in medical billing and coding? A medical billing and coding certificate often takes 4-15 months to complete. However, completion times vary by program and whether learners enroll full time or part time.
Can I learn medical coding online?Through our affordable Medical Billing and Coding online program, you can earn your career diploma as you prepare for your certification exam in as little as 11 months, learning from the comfort of your own home at your own pace.
Which medical coding certification pays the most?High Paying Medical Coder Jobs. Coding Director. Salary range: $60,000-$103,500 per year. ... . Coding Manager. Salary range: $65,000-$99,500 per year. ... . Medical Coding Manager. Salary range: $60,000-$94,000 per year. ... . Coding Compliance Specialist. ... . Remote Inpatient Coder. ... . Physician Coder. ... . Inpatient Coder. ... . Medical Coding Auditor.. |