Are you seeking a stable, well-compensated career in the growing healthcare industry? Do you thrive in detail-oriented environments and possess a knack for organization? The Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) offers an unparalleled opportunity to launch your career in medical coding and healthcare information management.
Building on the success of our initial 2019 partnership between SEIU-UHW, the SEIU-UHW Education Fund, and Western Governors University (WGU), we are excited to announce an expanded Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP). The first iteration saw over 150 SEIU-UHW members embark on a flexible, online learning journey with WGU, mastering medical coding while maintaining their existing jobs. Now, we are significantly broadening access and impact.
What Makes This Medical Coding Opportunity Exceptional?
This enhanced Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) presents several key improvements designed to empower more individuals to succeed in medical coding:
- Expanded Enrollment: We are opening doors to 400 aspiring medical coders, significantly increasing the number of participants.
- Broader Accessibility: The program is now available to all SEIU-UHW members, their families, and friends referred by a member. This expanded eligibility ensures wider community access to this valuable career pathway.
- Enhanced Commitment & Investment: To ensure dedicated participation and program completion, we require:
- A commitment of at least 20 hours per week dedicated to coursework outside of work hours for up to 12 months. This structured time commitment is crucial for mastering the material and achieving certification.
- Demonstrated motivation and a strong commitment to successfully completing the rigorous medical coding curriculum.
- A one-time, non-refundable registration fee of $100, signifying investment and dedication to the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP).
Is the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) Right for You? Eligibility Requirements
The Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) is designed for motivated individuals ready to dedicate themselves to a new career path. Eligibility criteria are straightforward, ensuring participants are prepared for the program’s demands:
- Affiliation: Applicants must be a current SEIU-UHW member in good standing or be directly referred by one. This connection to SEIU-UHW underscores the program’s roots and support network.
- Internet Access: Consistent, reliable high-speed internet access at home is essential for participation in the online curriculum.
- Computer Access: A dependable computer or laptop for online coursework and program engagement is required.
- Educational Foundation: A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement.
- Basic Skills: Proficiency in English and arithmetic is necessary for understanding and applying medical coding principles.
- Computer Literacy: Basic computer and internet proficiency is expected for navigating the online learning environment.
- Beneficial Background (Not Mandatory): While not strictly required, prior coursework or familiarity with Medical Terminology and Anatomy and Physiology can be advantageous for candidates.
Crucially, successful applicants to the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) will demonstrate:
- Strong Program Commitment: A genuine desire to become a Medical Coder or Healthcare Information Management Professional is paramount.
- Time Dedication: The ability to dedicate a minimum of 20 hours per week outside of work for study and class time throughout the program’s duration is non-negotiable.
- Engagement: Commitment to attend six two-hour live online sessions with instructors and fellow students is required for interactive learning and community building.
- Realistic Expectations: A willingness to invest in professional development without a guaranteed job placement is essential. The Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) is a high-quality, job-readiness program designed to meet the demands of California employers seeking skilled medical coders. While we are dedicated to supporting graduates in their job search, program completion does not guarantee employment.
Why Western Governors University (WGU) for Medical Coding?
Western Governors University (WGU) is a respected non-profit, online university renowned for its commitment to high-quality, student-centered adult education. WGU is a pioneer in competency-based education, a learning model that allows students to progress through courses as soon as they demonstrate mastery of the material. This personalized approach contrasts with traditional semester-based learning, enabling motivated students in the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) to advance at their own pace. With over 113,000 current students and 130,000+ graduates, WGU’s proven track record speaks to its effectiveness in online education and career preparation.
Comprehensive Curriculum of the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP)
The WGU Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) is meticulously designed to equip each student with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in a medical coding career. The program encompasses three comprehensive courses delivered by industry experts, covering:
- Healthcare Communication and Leadership: Developing essential inter-professional communication and leadership skills within the healthcare context.
- Foundational Medical Coding Skills: Mastering fundamental medical coding principles for professional services, including CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM coding systems.
- CPC Exam Preparation: Focused preparation to successfully pass the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, an industry-recognized credential.
- Medical Coder Certificate: Upon successful completion, students earn a Medical Coder Certificate, validating their acquired skills.
- AAPC Practical Experience Letter: Providing an AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) letter acknowledging practical experience, enhancing job market readiness.
- Industry-Standard Encoder: Access to an industry-accepted encoder with practical case studies to build real-world coding proficiency.
- Job Readiness Training: Dedicated modules focused on resume building, interview skills, and job search strategies to facilitate successful career placement.
Throughout the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP), each student benefits from personalized mentorship. A dedicated mentor provides guidance, support, and resources to help students navigate the curriculum and progress toward job readiness.
Program Timeline: Key Dates for Your Medical Coding Journey
- Application Launch: Wednesday, August 14th
- Application Deadline: Wednesday, August 28th
- Student Acceptance & Registration: September
- Program Start (Orientation & Course L001): October
Program Duration: Learn at Your Pace
The Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) is designed to be flexible, allowing students to progress at their own pace with instructor and mentor support. While some highly motivated “sprinter” students may complete the online program in as little as 6 months, others may take up to 12 months. Most participants typically complete the program within approximately 9 months, balancing learning with their existing commitments.
Investment in Your Future: Program Costs
While the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) is an exceptional value, understanding the associated costs is important:
- SEIU-UHW Membership: While non-members referred by a UHW member can apply, enrollment requires becoming an SEIU-UHW member in good standing. For those not currently members, joining the SEIU-UHW Healthcare Justice Division is required, with dues at $20 per month.
- Registration Fee: All students pay a one-time, non-refundable $100 registration fee, demonstrating commitment to the program.
- Tuition & Materials: For qualified candidates, tuition, books, and fees, including essential CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code books, are covered by SEIU-UHW.
- Student Responsibility: Students are responsible for providing their own computer and reliable high-speed internet access.
Take the Next Step: Learn More About MCCAP
Ready to embark on your medical coding career journey? For further information about the Medical Coding Career Accelerator Program (MCCAP) and how to apply, please email us at [email protected]. Your future in healthcare information management starts here.
