Online Medical Billing and Coding Course

This 100% online course will prepare you to start your career in this high-demand occupation. Upon course completion, you will receive a voucher for the certification exam of your choice: CPC, CCA or CBCS.

Train to be a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist 

Medical billing and coding is a rising star in the healthcare field today. Our instructors will teach you everything you need to earn the professional certification that best aligns with your interest and career goals. You’ll learn how to use the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes. Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on practice using medical billing and coding software.  

Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists 

According to the AAPC 2022 Salary Survey results, non-certified medical records specialists average $46,321 per year, while certified medical records specialists can average $56,290 annually — 17.7% more than their noncertified colleagues. Jobs for these professionals are on the rise and expected to grow faster than average through 2026 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

FAQs About Medical Billing and Coding 

What does a medical biller and coder do?

Medical Billers and Coders are responsible for processing patient data including medical records and related insurance. In this position, you will code a patient's diagnosis and then request payment from the patient's insurance company. You will play an important role in ensuring that healthcare providers are quickly and accurately paid for the treatment they give patients.

Is there a difference between a medical biller and a medical coder?

Yes. Medical coders translate patient care into current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the medical services provided are accurately coded. Medical billers are responsible for creating a claim based on the codes a medical coder provides. Other than a handful of exceptions, medical billing and medical coding are two separate professions

What are the requirements for a medical billing and coding career?

Entry-level positions typically require completion of a certificate and passing one of the certification exams or an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. Additionally, medical billing and coding professionals must understand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What is the difference between certification exams (CPC, CCA, AND CBCS)?

Obtaining a CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification implies that an individual has met competencies in the field of medical billing and coding. Certification is invaluable to the student's career goals. Students have an opportunity to make confident, informed decisions about the national certification they prefer.

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is the gold standard entry-level coding certification for physicians, or professional fee, coders. 

The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is an entry-level medical coding certification across all settings--physician practices and inpatient hospitals.

The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is currently an entry-level medical billing certification for physician practices. In the summer of 2021, the exam will transition to an entry-level billing and coding certification, with the inclusion of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II testing.

Is medical billing and coding a good career?

U.S. News & World Report ranked medical records technicians (professionals that perform medical billing, medical coding or both) as #9 on its list of “25 Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree," #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs” and on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list.

Course Objectives 

• Be fully prepared to pass one of the following professional certifications that best aligns with your interest and career goals:
  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) 
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
  • Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Learn how the CPT Category II codes and ICD-10 codes work and how to assign them in common medical billing and coding procedures
• Gain hands-on billing experience with medical billing and coding software
• Externship Starter Kit to help you gain valuable experience in the field
• Medical Biller standalone option for those who aren’t interested in Medical Coding

Curriculum

1. Medical Terminology
   1. Introduction to Medical Terminology
   2. The Musculoskeletal System
   3. The Cardiovascular System
   4. The Lymphatic and Immune Systems
   5. The Respiratory System
   6. The Digestive System
   7. The Urinary System
   8. The Nervous System
   9. The Special Senses the Eyes and Ears
   10. The Integumentary System
   11. The Endocrine System
   12. The Reproductive System
   13. Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacology
2. Medical Billing and Coding
   1. Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
   2. Introduction to Health Insurance
   3. Managed Healthcare
   4. Revenue Cycle Management
   5. Legal Aspects of Health Insurance and Reimbursement
   6. ICD-10-CM Coding
   7. CPT Coding
   8. HCPCS Level II Coding
   9. ICD-10-PCS Coding
   10. Pharmacology for Coders
   11. Midterm
   12. Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
   13. Insurance Claims
   14. Commercial Insurance
   15. Blue Cross Blue Shield
   16. Medicare
   17. Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
   18. Certification
   19. How to Find a Job in Medical Billing and Coding
   20. Final

Who should attend

Anyone interested in a career in Medical Coding and Billing

• Nancy Smith has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Her clinical experience includes working as a medical assistant for a network of rural health clinics, and as a medical coder, insurance claims specialist, and medical records auditor. Nancy holds a bachelor's degree in vocational education and has developed and taught medical assistant programs.

• LaTisha Cottingham has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She has six years of teaching experience in the field of medical billing and coding and Medical Assisting. Currently she is employed as an HIM Analyst for a long-term care establishment that is based out of Alabama.

Sponsor

• Ed2Go Career Training

*Listing of sponsors does not represent endorsement by UW-Eau Claire Continuing Education/Extension.