Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

Medical Coding is the practice of assigning specific numeric and alpha-numeric codes to medical services, procedures, and diagnoses to submit claims to insurance companies including Medicare and Medicaid, to receive payment for services provided by a licensed healthcare professional. Medical Billers and Coders function as medical reimbursement consultants to medical practices, physician billing services, insurance companies, software companies, healthcare agencies, consulting firms, and State and Federal Government agencies. The objective of the certificate in Medical Billing and Coding is to provide students with a solid academic foundation in the areas of procedural and diagnostic coding, utilization of medical software, accounts receivable, insurance claims submission and management, electronic medical records (EMR), HIPAA compliance, health insurance guidelines and insurance fraud issues. Graduates of the program are prepared and encouraged to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam given by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). 

NOTE: Students must complete BIOL1XX Biology Elective (3-4 credits) prior to starting any medical billing and coding coursework.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Apply accurate diagnostic, procedural, and service coding using current ICD, CPT, and HCPCS classification systems in compliance with industry standards and regulatory guidelines.

• Prepare and process medical claims and reimbursement documentation in alignment with payer requirements, federal regulations, and ethical standards of billing practice.

• Demonstrate proficiency in health information management systems by entering, maintaining, and securing patient data in accordance with HIPAA and organizational policies.

• Communicate effectively with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients using professional terminology and problem-solving skills to support accurate billing, claim resolution, and revenue cycle operations