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.
CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
(2012-2013 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 |
Sitka, AK
99835
The Associate of Applied Science in HIM Degree Program at the University of Alaska Southeast is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
www.cahiim.org