The healthcare industry is experiencing rapid growth, and within it, medical billing and coding stand out as dynamic and in-demand professions. If you’re seeking a stable and rewarding career path within healthcare, our comprehensive Health Care Coding And Billing Training Content is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel. This 100% online course is your gateway to mastering this critical healthcare function and achieving professional certification, aligning perfectly with your career aspirations. You will gain proficiency in utilizing essential coding systems such as the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS), CPT Category II, and ICD-10 codes. Furthermore, our training provides practical, hands-on experience with industry-standard medical billing and coding software, ensuring you are job-ready from day one. Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a voucher to sit for your chosen certification exam – CPC, CCA, or CBCS – empowering you to take the next decisive step in your career.
The Bright Job Outlook for Medical Coding and Billing Professionals
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights the robust growth in the medical records and health information technician field, which includes medical billers and coders. Professionals in this sector enjoy an average annual salary of approximately $40,350 and are part of one of the fastest-expanding occupational areas in the nation.
- BLS projections indicate a significant demand increase, estimating over 27,000 new positions will be created in medical billing and coding by 2026. This growth underscores the vital role these specialists play in the healthcare ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing and Coding Training
WHAT EXACTLY DO MEDICAL BILLERS AND CODERS DO?
Medical billers and coders are the linchpins of healthcare administration, managing crucial patient data, including detailed medical records and insurance information. In this role, you will translate medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes, subsequently submitting claims to insurance companies to secure payments for healthcare providers. Your accuracy and efficiency directly impact the revenue cycle of healthcare facilities, ensuring providers are compensated promptly and correctly for the essential patient care they deliver.
IS THERE A DISTINCTION BETWEEN MEDICAL BILLING AND MEDICAL CODING?
Yes, while often intertwined, medical billing and coding are distinct yet complementary processes. Medical coders specialize in translating intricate patient medical records into Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, ensuring every service, diagnosis, and procedure is accurately represented. Medical billers then utilize these codes to formulate and submit insurance claims. In practice, many professionals are proficient in both areas, enhancing their versatility and value within healthcare organizations. Our health care coding and billing training content covers both domains comprehensively.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS ARE NEEDED FOR A CAREER IN MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING?
Entry into medical billing and coding typically requires a focused educational foundation. Completing a certificate program and successfully passing a recognized certification exam, or obtaining an associate degree in medical billing and coding are common pathways. Crucially, professionals must also possess a thorough understanding of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations to ensure patient data privacy and security. Our training program thoroughly prepares you for these requirements.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING TRAINING?
The duration to become a proficient medical biller and coder generally ranges from one to three years, depending on the chosen educational path. Earning a professional medical billing and coding certification can be achieved in approximately one year, while pursuing an associate degree may extend up to three years. Our accelerated online health care coding and billing training content is structured to provide you with certification readiness in an efficient timeframe.
UNDERSTANDING MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING CERTIFICATIONS: CPC, CCA, AND CBCS
Achieving CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification signifies a recognized level of competence and expertise in medical billing and coding practices. Certification is a significant asset, boosting career prospects and earning potential. We empower our students to make informed decisions about the national certification that best aligns with their career goals by providing detailed insights into each option.
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification, administered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), is highly esteemed as the gold standard for physician-based coding.
The Certified Coding Associate (CCA), offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), is a broadly recognized entry-level certification applicable across diverse healthcare settings, including physician practices and inpatient hospital environments.
The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), is a valuable entry-level certification focused on medical billing within physician practices. Notably, the CBCS exam is evolving to encompass both billing and coding, incorporating ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II testing, making it an increasingly comprehensive credential.
A medical billing and coding specialist efficiently manages patient records and insurance claims at their workstation.
IS MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING A VIABLE CAREER PATH?
Absolutely. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks medical records technicians (encompassing medical billers and medical coders) highly in their career assessments. They were recognized as #9 in the “25 Best Jobs That Don’t Require a College Degree,” #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs,” and featured in the prestigious “The 100 Best Jobs” list. This recognition underscores the stability, accessibility, and desirability of a career in medical billing and coding.
Course Objectives of Our Health Care Coding and Billing Training Content
- Comprehensive preparation to successfully pass your choice of professional certification exam:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam (AAPC)
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam (AHIMA)
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam (NHA)
- In-depth understanding of CPT Category II and ICD-10 coding systems and their application in common medical billing and coding scenarios.
- Practical, hands-on proficiency with medical billing and coding software for real-world application.
- Access to an Externship Starter Kit to facilitate gaining valuable practical experience in a healthcare setting.
- A standalone Medical Biller option for those specifically interested in billing, without the coding specialization.
Prerequisites and Course Requirements
This health care coding and billing training content has no prerequisites, making it accessible to individuals from various backgrounds.
Curriculum Overview
Our curriculum is meticulously designed to provide a robust foundation and advanced skills in medical billing and coding:
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Medical Terminology:
- Introduction to Medical Terminology
- The Musculoskeletal System
- The Cardiovascular System
- The Lymphatic and Immune Systems
- The Respiratory System
- The Digestive System
- The Urinary System
- The Nervous System
- The Special Senses – Eyes and Ears
- The Integumentary System
- The Endocrine System
- The Reproductive System
- Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacology
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Medical Billing and Coding:
- Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
- Introduction to Health Insurance
- Managed Healthcare
- Revenue Cycle Management
- Legal Aspects of Health Insurance and Reimbursement
- ICD-10-CM Coding
- CPT Coding
- HCPCS Level II Coding
- ICD-10-PCS Coding
- Pharmacology for Coders
- Midterm Assessment
- Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
- Insurance Claims Processing
- Commercial Insurance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Policies
- Medicare Guidelines
- Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
- Certification Processes
- Job Search Strategies in Medical Billing and Coding
- Final Examination
A knowledgeable instructor guides students through the complexities of health care coding and billing training.
Meet Your Expert Instructors
Nancy Smith
Nancy Smith brings over three decades of rich experience in the healthcare sector. Her extensive background includes clinical roles as a medical assistant in rural health clinics, and specialized positions as a medical coder, insurance claims specialist, and medical records auditor. Nancy holds a bachelor’s degree in vocational education and has a proven track record in developing and instructing medical assistant programs.
LaTisha Cottingham
LaTisha Cottingham offers over 20 years of healthcare industry experience, including six years dedicated to teaching medical billing and coding and Medical Assisting. Currently, she serves as an HIM Analyst for a prominent long-term care organization based in Alabama, further cementing her practical and theoretical expertise in the field.
Registration and Enrollment Information
Our health care coding and billing training content is delivered 100% online, providing you with the ultimate flexibility to start your journey anytime and learn at your own pace. Enroll today to take the first step towards a rewarding and stable healthcare career.
