Program: Coding Specialist Program Program Code: (CSP)
Program Faculty: Valerius*, Holey, Rolling (*program director)
Program Description:
The College offers both a coding specialist program and a basic medical coding program, both of which lead to a certificate. Course descriptions for both certificates appear in the listing for Health Information Specialist in this catalog.
Basic Medical Coding
The basic medical coding certificate prepares the student for entry-level coding positions in outpatient settings. It consists of 24 credits offered part-time in the late afternoon and evenings over three semesters.
Required courses:
HIMP 105 Medical Terminology for Health Information Professionals
HIMP 126 Health Record as an Information Tool
HIMP 145 Pharmacology and Clinical Laboratory
HIMP 156 CPT Coding
HIMP 185 ICD Coding
HIMP 275 Reimbursement Systems
Supporting course:
BIOL 240 Anatomy & Physiology I
Coding Specialist
Optimal reimbursement for healthcare treatment is directly linked to the proper assignment of diagnostic and procedural code numbers. The coding specialist learns in detail about two major coding systems, ICD (International Classification of Diseases) and CPT (Current Procedural Terminology). Skills using computerized systems including coding and diagnostic-related group assignments (DRG) are an important part of providing quality information.
The coding specialist program has three major components: medical science, which covers anatomy and physiology, pathology and medical terminology; coding using ICD and CPT, including the relationship between coding and reimbursement; and professional practice experience, which allows for practical experience with coding in a healthcare facility. Methods of instruction encompass a variety of experiences.
Evaluation of student learning is based directly on objectives shared with the student at the beginning of each course. Methods of evaluation are based on specified criteria and include objective and essay unit exams, final examinations and observations and reporting by professional practice supervisors.
The program is completed in two years. Classes are offered late afternoon and evening. The program is taken on a part-time basis. Selected courses are available for earning continuing education units. Professional practice experience will include daytime hours.
Curriculum Guide
Required courses:
HIMP 105 Medical Terminology for Health Information Professionals
HIMP 115 Information Technology
HIMP 126 Health Record as an Information Tool
HIMP 136 Health Document Content and Structure
HIMP 145 Pharmacology and Clinical Laboratory
HIMP 156 CPT Coding
HIMP 185 ICD Coding
HIMP 225 Advanced Coding
HIMP 275 Reimbursement Systems
Supporting courses:
BIOL 240 Anatomy & Physiology I
BIOL 242 Human Disease
