MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING DIPLOMA

Below are descriptions of the options available to our Medical Billing and Coding students. If a student decides to pursue more than one certification, or requires a retest, then the student will be responsible for the payment and registration for each additional certification and exam fee.

Medical Coding Certifications⁽²⁾

Certified Professional Coder

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is offered through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The AAPC is the nation’s largest credentialing organization for the business side of medicine- coding and auditing.

Obtaining a CPC proves proficiency in:

• Coding procedures, services, and diagnoses in a physician-based setting
• Medical coding rules and regulations of reimbursement and compliance
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology

Exam cost: $300

Certified Coding Associate

The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is available from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). The AHIMA was founded in 1928 to improve health record quality and administers certifications that are nationally accepted.

Obtaining a CCA certificate demonstrates coding competency in both hospitals and physician-based settings. The CCA is an entry-level coding credential designed to help new coders exhibit efficiency in areas such as:

• Health records and data content
• Clinical classification systems and coding guidelines
• Privacy, confidentiality, legal, and ethical issues

Exam cost: $299

⁽¹⁾http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm
⁽²⁾Coding certification varies by campus. Please contact your local campus to learn which coding certification is offered.

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What is the outlook for Medical Coding Careers?

In the medical records and health information field, employment of medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow faster than average, predicts the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with job growth of 15 percent in the 2014-2024 decade.⁽²⁾

Where can Medical Billers and Coders work?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those employed in medical records often work in pleasant and comfortable offices. This is one of the few health-related occupations in which there is no direct patient care.⁽²⁾

Despite working in an office setting, it is possible for medical billers and coders to put in overtime. Shifts in the day, evening, and night may be available in health facilities that are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and overtime may be required.⁽²⁾

(1)Employment is not guaranteed for students or graduates.
⁽²⁾http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Healthcare/Medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm. BLS statistics represent national job growth expectations and are not necessarily reflective of local market conditions.

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