Medical Billers and Coders organize and manage health information data by ensuring its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security in both paper and electronic systems. They use various classification systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement purposes, for databases and registries, and to maintain patients’ medical and treatment histories. They work regularly with physicians and other healthcare professionals. They meet with these workers to clarify a diagnosis or to get additional information to make sure that records are complete and accurate.

The need for qualified medical coders has greatly increased due to demand for health care services and the tightening of government guidelines related to health care coverage, patient services, and reimbursement processes. This program will train students to properly locate, document, and validate appropriate diagnostic and procedure codes using the current ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding manuals for professional services. Proper billing, insurance claim preparation, and reimbursement policies will be taught as part of this program. Students will also gain knowledge of medical, legal and ethical responsibilities, as well as anatomy and medical terminology. Students completing this program will be able to apply for employment opportunities in doctor’s offices, clinics, nursing homes, hospitals, labs, public health facilities and insurance agencies.

Students will be prepared to test for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) examination with the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Students that successfully pass the examinations will be nationally certified as medical coders with the AAPC.