CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE in MEDICAL CODING

The student must achieve a minimum grade of 70% in tests and other requirements in Professional Medical Coding Curriculum in order to earn this certificate of competence.

This course includes a brief overview of medical terminology and human anatomy, with emphasis on accurate CPT and ICD-9 coding. It provides practice in accurate CPT and ICD-9 coding, as well as application of coding guidelines and rules. This course prepares you for the coding certification exam. Prerequisite: completion of credit or non-credit medical terminology course. Two years work experience in coding, and two letters of recommendation attesting to the work experience is required for certification. Those without two years of experience may take the course and exam and can be recognized as an “Apprentice” until completion of two years of work experience.

Required Textbook: Step-by-Step Medical Coding book and workbook (included).

Other Textbooks: Students must supply their own copies of the current 2008 ICD-9, CPT (Standard or Professional version), and HCPCS.

Additional: Membership fee to be paid to the American Academy of Professional Coders, which is a national association (required).

Instructor: Essie White, CPC, CPC-H