Health Information Management
Coding Specialist Certificate
What is Coding?
Coding is the translation of narration into numerical codes. For example, a health care provider lists diagnoses and procedures and these-for billing, research, statistical, and administrative purposes-must be translated into numerical codes.
The two dominant coding systems are: ICD-9-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Edition, Clinical Modification) and CPT-4 (Current Procedural Terminology, 4th Edition).
In the program we use the Channel ICD-9-CM which is ordered directly from the publisher; the CPT-4 coding text is ordered through the American Medical Association. Workbooks accompany both texts.
Employment:
At present, the demand for entry-level coders is extremely high especially in acute care facilities. In addition, medical clinics, veterinary hospitals, long term care facilities, behavioral health facilities, and health care corporations also provide job opportunities. The HIM Coding Specialist Certificate will prepare graduates for positions in this dynamic and fast growing profession.
HIM Courses
HIM215 - Billing and Reimbursement
2 Credits
Focus is on issues of billing and reimbursement for health care
facilities. Includes an overview of the role of the health insurance
specialist; third party payers such as Medicare, Medicaid, workers
compensation and disability, Tricare and commercial insurance claims.
Legal and regulatory considerations and ambulatory ICD-9 are covered.
Students will complete a project focused on coding and reimbursement
issues.
Prerequisite: HIM 190
HIM190 - CPT Coding
3 Credits
Review of alternative classification systems with major emphasis on
HCPCS/CPT-4 ambulatory care coding. A required clinical lab at an
ambulatory care setting will be required. Brief overview of Ambulatory
Visit Groups (AVGs) and Resource Based Relative Values (RBRVs).
Evaluation will be based on class participation, site visit, completion
of unit assignments, tests and final examination.
Prerequisite: Medical Terminology; Anatomy & Physiology; or consent of instructor.
HIM260 - Data Quality & Reimbursement
2 Credits
A continuation of HIM 210 with in-depth focus on coding issues.
Introduction to data quality issues including coding validation, data
accuracy, coding guidelines and training, and reimbursement issues
including Diagnostic Related Groups (DRGs), Ambulatory Patient
Classifications (APCs); Resource Based Relative Value Scales (RBRVs).
Impact of coding accuracy and correct DRG assignment on financial
stability of facility. Overview of specialist credentials: CCS and
CCS-P.
Prerequisite: HIM 210 (Students with required prerequisites, not
enrolled in either the HIM degree or coding specialist certificate will
be admitted on a space available basis only.)
HIM210 - ICD-9-CM Coding
3 Credits
Introduction to International Classification of Diseases Ninth
Revision, Clinical Modification (for use in the United States). Use of
integrated learning materials. Instruction in coding diagnoses and
procedures, sequencing, and coding conventions. Review of complications
and co-morbidities. Clinical Lab: Students will complete a required lab
at an acute care clinical site which will provide an overview of DRGs,
interface between business office and HIM, optimizing reimbursement,
coding quality studies, and working with physicians for DRG management.
Introduction to coding software. Evaluation will be by means of class
participation, unit and lab assignments, tests and/or final
examination.
Prerequisite: Medical Terminology; Anatomy and Physiology
HIM135 - Medical Terminology
3 Credits
Designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the language
used within healthcare settings. It gives students a foundation for
communication with health care professionals and lay people. Focus is
on terminology of body systems related to symptomatology, diseases and
treatment. Evaluation by means of assignments, tests and a
comprehensive final examination. Cross-listed as HS 135
Prerequisite: Regular admission status
and co-requisite placement at ENGL 110 or higher.
HIM270 - Pathophysiology
3 Credits
Introduction to the basic concepts underlying various pathological
processes. Students will draw on their knowledge of normal anatomy and
physiology to understand how pathogenesis of disease occurs. Discussion
of diseases, diagnostic process, appropriate testing, and various
treatment options. Class will require both independent online work and
class attendance. Lectures, discussions, assigned independent readings,
use of online references, independent research, and student projects
will be utilized. May not meet requirements for nursing programs.
Evaluations will be through participation and attendance, assignments,
and tests.
Prerequisite: BIOL 111 and BIOL 112. Co-requisite: HIM 135
or permission. Cross listed as HS 270.
HIM271 - Pharmacology
1 Credits
Introduction to drug terminology, administration, toxicity, vocabulary,
standards and references.
Prerequisite: HIM 135 Medical Terminology
CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
(2009-2010 CATALOG)
| Minimum Credit Hours | 31 | ||
| General Requirements | 14 | ||
| Written Communication Skills | |||
| ENGL | S111 | Methods of Written Communication | 3 |
| Science Skills | |||
| BIOL | S111 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 4 |
| BIOL | S112 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 4 |
| Computer Skills | |||
| CIOS | S105 | Computer Literacy | 3 |
| Program Requirements | 17 | ||
| HIM | S135 | Medical Terminology | 3 |
| HIM | S190 | CPT Coding | 3 |
| HIM | S210 | ICD-9-CM Coding | 3 |
| HIM | S215 | Billing and Reimbursement | 2 |
| HIM | S260 | Data Quality & Reimbursement | 2 |
| HIM | S272 | Pathophysiology | 4 |
