Train to be a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Medical billing and coding is one of the fastest growing specialties in the healthcare field! This online course will prepare you for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam, offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). You’ll learn how to use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes.
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Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical billing and coding specialists earn an average annual salary of $40,350 and work in one of the fastest growing professions.
The BLS also estimates that at least 27,000 new jobs will be needed in this profession by 2026.
- Learn how the CPT Category II codes and ICD-10 codes work and how to assign them in common medical billing and coding procedures.
- Be fully prepared to sit for the CCA exam, offered by the American Health Information Management Association.
Medical Terminology
Learn common medical terminology of the body and how it relates to diagnostic procedures, nuclear medicine, and pharmacology
Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
Overview of medical billing and coding in today’s healthcare system
Healthcare Law
How HIPAA, the False Claims Act, and the Stark Law protect health information
Introduction to Health Insurance Terms
Health insurance terms, healthcare provider terms, and third-party reimbursement methods
Pharmacology for Coders
Definition of pharmacology, drug classifications, and routes of administration
ICD-10-CM
Overview of ICD-10-CM, as well as coding guidelines, conventions, and steps for assigning ICD-10-CM codes
CPT and HCPCS Level II Coding
How the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and CPT Code Book work, and steps for assigning CPT and HCPCS Level II codes
Abstracting Information from Medical Documents
Coding from soap notes, consultation reports, operative reports, emergency room records, and procedure reports
New Patients, Insurance Claims, and EOBs
Electronic, paper and hybrid medical records, practice management software, and developing insurance claims
Submitting Electronic Claims and CMS 1500
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), electronic claims submission, and the National Uniform Claim Committee
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Working with participating and nonparticipating providers
Medicare
Understanding Medicare, parts A, B, C, and D
Other Healthcare Programs
Medicaid, TRICARE, CHAMPVA, and workers’ compensation
ICD-10-PCS (optional lesson)
Overview, code structure, and definitions of ICD-10-PCS
Survey of Hospital Billing
Hospital revenue cycle, chargemaster, master patient index, and prospective payment systems
Career Roadmap for Medical Billing and Coding – Find a Job Fast
Marketing your skills and talents, creating a résumé and cover letter, interviewing, and salary negotiation
What’s the difference between a medical biller and a medical coder?
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 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 many years does it take to become a medical biller and coder?
In most cases, it takes between one to 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.
Can medical billers and coders work remotely?
Yes; however, this will vary depending on the healthcare organization that one works for and their level of experience within the medical billing and coding profession.
Is medical billing and coding a good career?
U.S. News and World Report ranked medical records technicians (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.
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.
Shonda Miles
Shonda Miles is a Certified Professional Coder, Certified Professional Medical Auditor, and holds a master’s in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Management). Having worked over 6 years in the healthcare industry, Shonda has expertise in coding and chart auditing Inpatient, Outpatient, and ER medical records. She is a member of AAPC, NAMAS, and ACHE. She is currently employed with a university hospital as a Compliance Auditor.