Pathways: Medical Coding/Insurance Billing
This one or two term intensive training is offered in an online format and provides curriculum that includes skills, knowledge and abilities that prepare students for entry-level positions in a medical office setting. Students who complete the non-credit first term earn 12 Continuing Education Units (CEU's). The target wage for employment is between $10.00 - $12.00 an hour. A second term internship for college credit is an option for those students wishing hands-on experience.
For students wanting to become Certified Medical Coders, training and certification exam information can be found at the following link: www.ahima.org.
This training is ideal for students who wish to place a medical emphasis on prior office work experience. Students will receive a certificate stating they completed the training. Because the first term is non-credit training, it is not eligible for federal financial aid. The optional second term internship for college credit may be eligible.
The first term of this training is online and provided through PCC Distance Education. To see if you computer is compatable click on this link for details on computer system requirements.
The next training will begin Spring term, March 30, 2009.
Topics covered in Term One:
Medical Terminology 1 & 2 This portion assists students in understanding the health care system. It includes laboratory, surgical and imaging terms and explores basic medical word structure and terms that relate to the body. Many body systems are studied, including:digestion, urinary, reproductive, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, integumentary, sensory and endocrine.
Basic Coding Classification This portion will explore both ICD-9-CM and CPT coding for services furnished by physicians, clinics and hospitals. Codes are used for the processing on every bill or request for payment submitted to Medicare and insurance companies. Participants will use medical terminology and learn the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for basic diagnostic and procedure coding.
Insurance Billing & Reimbursement Increase the chances of getting medical claims paid, decrease denials and expand medical claims submission knowledge. Covers current insurance regulations, basic discussion of medical procedures and coding requirements on how they affect reimbursement. HCFA 1450 and 1500 claim forms completion familiarity will be discussed.
Term two:
Is an option for students wanting hands-on experience by developing an internship through the PCC Occupational Skills Training program and is highly recommended. Students work with the Professional Skills staff during the first term to develop an internship location. This process is much like looking for work. Students take the lead role in finding their own employer to provide a work site for an internship. PCC does not "provide" you with an internship. PCC will guide you in developing an internship, then work with the employer during the internship period. PCC does cover the workmans compensation for the student during the internship.
- Classes start soon: The next start date for this training is March 30, 2009.
Features:
- Career Pathways students participate in three hours a week of Career Planning where a cohort learning community is developed and an Employment Specialist supports students as they pursue employment in this field.
- Training is on the State of Oregon Eligible Training Provider list (WIA).
- This training is offered in partnership with PCC Institute for Health Professionals and PCC Professional Skills Department.
- There is no license with this training. For more information on testing to become a Certified Coder, visit www.ahima.org.
Estimated Cost of Training: $3,855.85
Term One - $2,870.25 (includes additional Career Planning class)
Term Two - Optional Internship: $985.60
Training Cost Sheet.
Note: The figures above are based on the 2006/07 PCC fee structure and include admissions fee and parking. They are approximations and subject to change without notice.
Prerequisites
- High School Diploma or GED
- Previous office or customer service experience
- Able to type 30 words per minute
- Experience in MS Office Windows/Word/Excel/Ten-key experience
- COMPASS scores placing into: Reading 90, Writing 90, Math 20
- Personal computer with internet capability
Course of Study
| Course Number | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Term One - CEU940N | Basic Coding and Insurance Billing | non-credit |
WFTT23 (For students wanting the Coding/Billing training only, please call 503-731-6628) |
Career Planning: This course is designed to build a learning community among students pursuing career pathways courses. Students will develop their skills as a student, intern and job seeker. A job search portfolio will be used as an organizational framework for the course. | non-credit |
| Total Credits (Term 1) | 0 - non-credit | |
| Term Two (Optional) | Internship | 6 - 16 |
| Total Credits (Optional) | 6 - 16 | |
What should I do next to get into the training?
- Contact Laurie Chadwick at 503-788-6233.
- Apply for Admission to the College, there is a $25 fee.
- Take the college placement exam workshop.
- Schedule a time to take the COMPASS placement exam. You can call one of the PCC testing centers to schedule the exam.
- Complete the PCC online student orientation.