Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals Certificate

Degree

Certificate (Eligible for federal aid as a stand-alone certificate)

Overview

Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals Certificate focuses on skills applicable anywhere in the world and prepares students to function in a medical coding/billing facility. The certificate utilizes a software-based program that assists students in assigning accurate medical codes for diagnoses (ICD-10-CM), procedures (CPT), and supplies (HCPCS) Students will practice analyzing medical records, such as chart notes and operation notes, as well as apply basic billing and reimbursement practices. Basic medical terminology, anatomy, and pathology will be introduced by body system and will be used in analyzing documentation and identifying correct medical diagnosis and procedure codes. 

Career Opportunities

Medical billers/coders are in demand by coding/billing facilities, insurance companies, medical clinics (all specialties), and hospitals. This certificate prepares a student for an entry level position in billing and/or coding. This occupation is expected to experience faster than average employment growth with a moderate volume of annual job openings. 

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the certificate, successful graduates will be able to:

• Identify organs and structures of human anatomy and physiology of body systems, including medical terminology, related diseases/disorders, signs/symptoms, etiology, diagnostics tests, procedures, treatments/medications.
• Demonstrate accurate and efficient billing and medical coding principles, including reading and analyzing patient charts/operative notes, understanding and applying the Revenue Cycle, and assigning appropriate ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS national codes.

Course Requirements 

Students are responsible to examine the course description of each course listed below for details of prerequisites and co-requisites, which must be satisfied before registering for the course. 

Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals Certificate Core Courses

MCO 180, Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding 3
MCO 201A, Body Systems 1, 2 credits
MCO 201B, Medical Coding 1, 2 credits
MCO 202A, Body Systems 2, 2 credits
MCO 202B, Medical Coding 2, 2 credits
MCO 203A, Body Systems 3, 2 credits
MCO 203B, Medical Coding 3, 2 credits
CAR 201P,  Career Success, 1 credit

Total Minimum Certificate Hours 16

Graduation Requirements 

1. Minimum of 16 total semester credit hours as outlined
2. Grade of C or higher in all core courses
3. Cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher