American Career College (ACC) offers a comprehensive Medical Billing program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills for a successful career in the healthcare industry. As the demand for skilled medical billers and coders continues to grow, ACC’s program aims to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in various healthcare settings, including medical offices, clinics, HMOs, insurance companies, and independent billing services. This program is structured to provide a robust understanding of medical billing and coding practices, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of healthcare administration.
Program Overview and Career Objectives
The Medical Billing program at American Career College is meticulously crafted to provide students with the expertise required to thrive as medical billers. The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards and equip students with practical skills applicable in real-world scenarios. Students will learn the intricacies of healthcare data delivery systems through an engaging online learning model, complemented by essential lab and computer software applications. A key objective of this program is to familiarize students with critical industry reference materials such as CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification), PCS (Procedural Coding System), and HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System). These are the fundamental tools used daily by medical billing and coding professionals.
Curriculum and Course Modules
The program is thoughtfully divided into six modules, each spanning 80 hours, to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. These modules cover essential aspects of medical billing, from foundational procedures to advanced topics. The curriculum not only addresses industry-related prerequisites but also emphasizes the practical application of billing processes. The modules include:
- MB100 – Medical Billing Procedures: This foundational course introduces students to the core procedures of medical billing, setting the stage for more advanced topics.
- MB200 – Claims Processing: Students will learn the critical processes involved in submitting and managing medical claims, a vital function in any healthcare setting.
- MB300 – Hospital Billing: This module focuses on the specific nuances of billing within hospital environments, which often involves more complex procedures and regulations.
- MB400 – Reimbursement and Denial Management: A crucial aspect of medical billing, this course teaches students how to effectively manage reimbursements and handle claim denials.
- MB500 – Managed Care and Private Health Plans: Students will gain an understanding of managed care models and the intricacies of private health insurance plans.
- MB600 – State and Government Health Plans: This module covers billing processes specific to state and government-sponsored health plans, ensuring students are knowledgeable about public healthcare systems.
These online courses provide a robust theoretical foundation, preparing students for the practical challenges of the field.
Externship for Real-World Experience
A distinctive feature of the American Career College Medical Billing program is the externship component (EXTMB). This provides an invaluable opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a professional medical billing environment. The externship, totaling 180 hours with 160 clinical hours, allows students to work alongside experienced professionals, applying their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios. This practical experience is designed to smooth the transition from student to working professional, making graduates more attractive to potential employers.
Learning Resources and Equipment
To facilitate effective learning, the Medical Billing program provides students with access to a comprehensive suite of instructional equipment and resources, including:
- Billing and Coding References: Students utilize industry-standard references such as ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and HCPCS, ensuring they are proficient with the tools of the trade.
- Medical Office Software: Hands-on experience with medical office software is integrated into the curriculum, preparing students for the digital tools used in modern healthcare administration.
- Word Processing and Medical Claims Software: Students develop skills in word processing and using specialized medical claims software, essential for documentation and claim submission.
- Textbook and E-Text Materials: A combination of traditional and digital learning materials is provided to cater to diverse learning preferences.
- On-line Course Material: The program leverages online platforms to deliver course content, enhancing flexibility and accessibility for students.
- Northstar Platform: Students also have access to online digital literacy modules via the Northstar platform, providing supplemental resources to bolster their online learning capabilities.
Program Details and Location
The Medical Billing program is offered at the Ontario location of American Career College. The program’s blended delivery method combines in-class clock hours (660) with outside hours (N/A), totaling 660 hours over approximately 29 weeks, though this duration may be adjusted based on holiday schedules. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are awarded a diploma, signifying their readiness to enter the field of medical billing. The program is designed to be completed in Quarter Credits, totaling 43.
| Course Number | Title | Clock Hours | Clinical Hours | Quarter Credits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MB100 | Medical Billing Procedures † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MB200 | Claims Processing † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MB300 | Hospital Billing † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MB400 | Reimbursement and Denial Management † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MB500 | Managed Care and Private Health Plans † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| MB600 | State and Government Health Plans † | 80 | 0 | 6.0 |
| EXTMB | Externship § | 180 | 160 | 7.0 |
| Totals | 660 | 160 | 43.0 |
† Courses offered online. § Courses offered on ground.
TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 43.0
Conclusion
For individuals seeking a stable and growing career in healthcare, the Medical Billing program at American Career College provides a solid foundation. Through a blend of online learning, practical software applications, and a real-world externship, the program is designed to produce competent and confident medical billing professionals. While individual reviews may vary, the comprehensive curriculum and hands-on approach of the American Career College Medical Billing program positions graduates well for entry-level roles in the medical billing and coding field. Prospective students should consider exploring the program further to determine if it aligns with their career aspirations in the healthcare sector.
