Medical coding is one of the fastest growing careers today.
The U.S. Bureau of Statistics estimates the need for medical coders will increase exponentially due to the increasing use of electronic health records. ICD stands for the International Classification of Diseases and is a very popular method for medical coding. Coders use this classification system to assign a code to a diagnosis or procedure. Medical coders work for physicians, insurance companies, surgical practices, clinics and hospitals. The best way to demonstrate your value to an employer is to become certified in medical coding.
Instructions
Instructions
1. Join the American Academy of Professional Coders, the largest credentialing organization worldwide for medical coders. You will be able to network with other coding professionals, enroll in medical coding courses and take certification exams through the AAPC. Student memberships are available at a discounted rate.
2. Take the AAPC Anatomy and Medical Terminology course if you need to. The AAPC strongly encourages students to take this online course before beginning the core coding courses, because a thorough knowledge of the body is necessary to properly do coding. If you are a practicing physician or nurse, the AAPC will consider a copy of your license as proof of your knowledge in anatomy and medical terminology.
3. Graduates of the CPC program are honored with a certificate.
Enroll in the Certified Professional Coder program with the AAPC by registering for the online program, or enroll in an AAPC approved program at a local facility near you. The AAPC website has a list of approved facilities for different states, or sign up online and begin right away. This is the first certification and is recommended for beginners because it demonstrates a broad knowledge of the basic principles of medical coding.
4. Complete the CPC program and study the materials included with your CPC course. The online program includes a textbook, workbook, over 12 hours of audio lectures and contact information for your own personal AAPC coach. Contact your coach if you have any questions about the course or the CPC certification.
5. Buy the most current ICD-9 Volumes I and II coding books. These are required to complete the program, but you should also purchase any other books your coach suggests will help you complete the CPC course. Practice finding the correct codes in the ICD-9 manuals as quickly as possible since the CPC exam is a timed test.
6. Check the AAPC website for testing locations, and take the Certified Professional Coder exam. You are allowed 5.5 hours to complete the test, using several coding manuals approved by the AAPC. Successfully pass the CPC exam, and you are an AAPC certified professional coder.
7. Hospitals employ many medical coders due to their patient volume.
Decide which area of coding you would like to work in. The AACP offers advanced certifications allowing you to specialize in several desired areas. AHIMA, or the American Health Information Management Association, is a professional organization that also offers specialized certifications in medical coding.
Tips Warnings
Check with your employer to see if they will cover any costs for your coding program.
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