Program Overview

Program Overview

The Medical Billing and Coding program is a 100% online course designed to prepare students for a career in this high-demand occupation. The program will teach students how to use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes, as well as provide hands-on practice using medical billing and coding software.

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical billing and coding specialists earn an average yearly salary of $47,180. Jobs for these professionals are expected to increase by 8% through 2032, much faster than the average for all other professions. The BLS also estimates that at least 15,000 new jobs for medical billers and coders are expected annually, on average, over the decade.

Medical Billing and Coding FAQs

• What 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.
• What is the difference between a medical billing and a medical coding?
  Yes, there is a difference. 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Course Objectives

• Be fully prepared to pass one of the following professional certifications:
  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
  • Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Learn how the CPT Category II codes and ICD-10 codes work and how to assign them in common medical billing and coding procedures
• Gain hands-on billing experience with medical billing and coding software
• Externship Starter Kit to help gain valuable experience in the field
• Medical Biller standalone option for those who aren't interested in Medical Coding

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Instructors

Nancy Smith

Nancy 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 Cottingham

LaTisha 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 based out of Alabama.