Medical coding, which is an essential part of medical billing, is the act of properly coding medical insurance claims. A medical coder, using knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology, properly codes claim forms according to the care given and diagnoses made.
A large number of quality medical coding / billing schools which offer distance learning and online degrees and courses are available, and this article reviews some of the top options.
Medical Coding Schools – American Health Information Management Association
AHIMA offers one of the most comprehensive medical coding programs. According to AHIMA, graduates of this 12-course program will:
- Accurately apply diagnosis and procedure code utilizing ICD-9-CM, CPT, and HCPCS
- Interpret coding guidelines for accurate code assignment
- Identify the importance of documentation on code assignment and the subsequent reimbursement impact
- Practice AHIMA's Standards of Ethical Coding
This medical coding course series is designed to take approximately 15 months, and the study is fully self-directed. Students receive physical learning materials, including textbooks, as well as access to online learning.
For more information, contact AHIMA at (312) 233-1100.
Medical Coding Schools – American Academy of Professional Coders
The AAPC offers a CPC Preparation program which teaches fundamental coding skills for outpatient physician health care settings, and prepares students to take the AAPC CPC examination.
Of the medical coding programs available, students who enroll in this one have access to college credit reductions at other online universities, and receive the following:
- Textbooks and audio lectures for distance learning
- Students are assigned a CPC-certified coach for academic assistance
- Credit for University of Phoenix healthcare degrees
For more information on AAPC's various medical coding / billing schools and programs, call 800-626-CODE.
Medical Coding / Billing Schools Online – Various Universities
A number of online universities offer a variety of associate healthcare degree programs which contain medical coding courses, including degrees in medical assisting, medical transcription, and a number of different healthcare management degrees. The following online schools are a representative example of what's available to distance learning students:
- Everest University
- Kaplan University
- University of Phoenix
- DeVry University
These schools provide both medical billing and coding courses, and offer asynchronous schedules which provide for a maximum amount of scheduling flexibility.
Advantages of Medical Coding / Billing Schools Online
Distance learning programs allow working and busy students the ability to simultaneously learn from home while maintaining outside demands. This is important for those who are unable to attend traditional, campus-based learning programs due to scheduling and logistical limitations.
Students interested in medical coding programs are encouraged to shop around amongst the many different schools available.
David Harris-Gershon - David Harris-Gershon – a blogger for Tikkun magazine and a freelance writer on Israel, the Middle East and America’s role in ...
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