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Medical Coding and Billing Specialist Certificate

At the heart of the healthcare system, a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist is an essential advocate for both patients and providers. By transforming complex medical details into standardized codes, they ensure that healthcare services are accurately documented and fairly reimbursed. This role is not just about numbers; it’s about supporting the financial sustainability of medical practices and ensuring that every patient’s care is properly recognized. These specialists work diligently to verify patient records, submit claims, and resolve any discrepancies, playing a pivotal
A stethoscope sitting on top of a medical record
Program Information
part in the smooth operation of healthcare services. Their commitment to accuracy and efficiency contributes to a healthier community, both in terms of medical care and financial responsibility.

Admissions Process

  • Register for admission to the college.
  • Declare Medical Coding Specialist—Physician Based (CCS-P) Program interest and register for all required Fall semester courses.
  • Meet placement criteria in basic math and English criteria:
  • If course placement criteria not met, student may enroll in appropriate remedial course/s to bring skill level up to criteria.
  • Meet with Director of Allied Health to discuss the guided pathway for successful completion of the program.

The Medical Coding Specialist—Physician Based (CCS-P) Program may be completed in three semesters beginning in the fall.

Credentialing

The Medical Coding and Billing Specialist Certificate offers the knowledge and skills to sit for both the Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Office – CCS-P (AHIMA) and/or the Certified Coding Specialist – CCS (AHIMA) American Health Information Management Association and meets the education eligibility requirements as outlined by that association.

Is this for me?

Medical records are stored electronically so those choosing this profession will need to be comfortable with using software programs and working with different databases.

Patient health information is protected by law, and confidentiality is required of medical records and data security.

Employment Information

Coding specialists compile, process and maintain medical records of hospital and clinic patients. They are familiar with coding systems and stay up-to-date on health care documentation.

Day-to-day responsibilities include reviewing patient records for accuracy and completeness, and tracking patient outcomes for quality, organization and maintenance of data for clinical databases and registries. Coding specialists are familiar with classification software and assign clinical codes for reimbursement and data analysis.

Most health information technicians work in hospitals or physicians’ offices.

Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical records and health information technicians is expected to increase by 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for health services is expected to increase as the population ages and should lead to an increased need for technicians to organize and manage the associated medical records.

Apply your certificate toward a degree

This certificate can also be applied toward the Associate of Applied Science in Allied Health degree, for those seeking increased responsibilities, supervisory roles and health care office management in physician offices, health care clinics, hospital-based clinics, hospitals and small health care businesses.