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.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS FOR HIM CODING SPECIALIST CERTIFICATE HIM 135 Medical Terminology, 3 cr. 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. Prerequisite: Regular admission status and co-requisite placement at ENGL 110 or higher. Cross-listed as HS 135 HIM 190 CPT Coding, 3 cr. 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. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology; Anatomy & Physiology; or consent of instructor. HIM 210 ICD-9-CM Coding, 3 cr. 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. Prerequisites: Medical Terminology; Anatomy and Physiology HIM 215 Billing and Reimbursement, 2 cr. 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 HIM 260 Data Quality & Reimbursement, 2 cr. 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.) HIM 270 Pathophysiology, 3 cr. 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. HIM 271 Pharmacology, 1 cr. Introduction to drug terminology, administration, toxicity, vocabulary, standards and references. Prerequistie: HIM 135 Medical Terminology

CERTIFICATE REQUIREMENTS
(2008-2009 CATALOG)

Minimum Credit Hours			30
General Requirements			13
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	S270	Pathophysiology	3
HIM	S271	Pharmacology	1

Contact Information

For more information or to take the first step toward an exciting new career, call the UAS Sitka Campus at 907-747-6653, ext. 9473 or 1-800-478-6653 and ask to speak with Cheryl Stromme or by email cheryl.stromme@uas.alaska.edu

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