Medical Insurance Coder/Biller

A programmed learning word building system approach is used to teach basic medical terminology word roots, prefixes, suffixes, language origins, plural formation and grammar rules are studied. Emphasis is placed on word building, definitions, spelling, usage, pronunciation and acceptable medical abbreviations.

Students focus on the structure and function of the human body, the unity and diversity of life, the nature of scientific inquiry, and the principles and processes of evolution as well as contemporary issues that relate to biology. Course includes a laboratory component which focuses on human anatomy.

Human Anatomy and Physiology I
This is the first course of a two-semester course sequence in which students study the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The course includes introductions to basic chemistry, biology and histology and extends to the survey of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. This course includes a laboratory component in which students are responsible for performing dissections and making original observations on dissected material. The laboratory experience culminates with the use of a plastinated human specimen for observation. A strong background in biology and/or chemistry is highly recommended.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II
This is the second course of a two-semester course sequence in which students study the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The course includes the autonomic nervous system, sensory, motor, and integrative systems, special senses, endocrine system, cardiovascular systems, lymphatic system and immunity, respiratory systems, digestive system, metabolism and nutrition, urinary system and reproductive systems. This course includes a laboratory component in which students are responsible for performing dissections and making original observations on dissected material. The laboratory experience culminates with the use of a plastinated human specimen for observation. Because physiological processes are based on the principles of chemistry, prior chemistry coursework is strongly recommended for this course.

This course provides an overview of the anatomy of each body system in relation to the field of medical assisting.

Study principles and practices in health information management as it relates to documentation for medical billing. Introduction to ICD and CPT coding, private insurance, and government program claim processing, legal and health care finance issues, HIPAA and release of information guidelines are emphasized.

This online course teaches fundamental medical coding skills for professional services (physicians, mid-level providers, etc) and prepares the student to take AAPC’s CPC exam. The course covers CPT, HCPCS and ICD-10-CM coding. Assures a broad knowledge in reviewing and assigning the correct procedure and diagnosis codes for professional (physician) services.

Designed to teach advanced skills in medical insurance billing. Correct preparation of major carrier claims including use of modifiers and rebilling skills emphasized.

A student may choose to take the capstone instead of the practicum. In the capstone, you will not be performing hours at an external site, but rather perform extensive coding and billing exercises to prepare for the CPC exam, build a portfolio, and prepare for employment. Expect to spend approximately 10 hours a week minimum, outside of class time working on assigned items.

Principles and concepts of medical law and bioethics, as well as an overview of health care financing through third party payers are the main focus of this course. Topics include: medical practice management, medical law, liability and malpractice prevention, health information management, HIPAA and confidentiality of patient information, employment practices, consent, billing collections, insurance and government healthcare programs, codes of ethics and contemporary bioethical issues.