AA Degree In Medical Billing And Coding

Top AA Degree in Medical Billing and Coding for Your Career Success

What is Medical Billing and Coding?

  • Medical billing and coding is an applied science that involves coding medical diagnoses and procedures, maintaining medical records, and processing insurance claims.

  • It requires a strong understanding of medical terminology, healthcare regulations, and electronic health records.

  • Medical billing and coding professionals play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely reimbursement for healthcare providers.

Benefits of a Medical Billing and Coding Degree

  • An associate degree in medical billing and coding can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare administration and technology.

  • It provides a comprehensive education in medical coding, billing, and reimbursement, as well as general education classes in subjects like English, math, and social sciences.

  • Graduates with an associate degree in medical billing and coding can earn higher salaries and have greater potential for career advancement.

Program Overview

  • The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Medical Billing and Coding is a 15-month program that prepares students for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding.

  • The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and technical skills needed to succeed in the field of medical billing and coding.

  • It covers key concepts and skills such as medical terminology, coding systems, billing and reimbursement, and electronic health records.

Program Format and Delivery

  • The Medical Billing and Coding program is delivered online, providing flexibility for students to balance classwork with other commitments.

  • The program is designed to be completed in a short period of time, allowing students to start their career quickly.

  • Online learning provides students with the flexibility to balance classwork with family, work, and other commitments.

Key Concepts and Skills

  • Medical terminology and coding systems (ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS)

  • Billing and reimbursement processes (insurance claims, patient records, electronic health records)

  • Electronic health records and healthcare information systems

  • Healthcare regulations and compliance (HIPAA, OIG)

  • Professional coding and billing practices (AAPC, AHIMA)

Medical Billing and Reimbursement

  • Understanding medical billing and reimbursement processes, including insurance claims and patient records.

  • Learning about electronic health records and healthcare information systems.

  • Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance (HIPAA, OIG).

  • Knowledge of professional coding and billing practices (AAPC, AHIMA).

Professional Certifications and Credentials

  • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)

  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

  • Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS)

  • Certified Medical Biller (CMB)

  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA)

Career Paths and Job Opportunities

  • Medical coder and coding support specialist

  • Medical biller and billing specialist

  • Healthcare administrator and manager

  • Health information manager and analyst

  • Medical records coordinator and specialist

Salary and Job Outlook

  • The median salary for medical billers and coders was $48,780 for 2023, with the highest 10% earning $77,810 and the lowest 10% earning less than $35,080.

  • The job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals is promising, with a 9% growth rate from 2023 to 2033 for medical records specialists.

Top Online Medical Billing Programs

  • University of Arkansas Grantham

  • Bryant & Stratton College

  • Central Maine Community College

  • Northland Community and Technical College

  • Pennsylvania Highlands Community College

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • GPA requirement (varies by institution)

  • Prerequisite courses (varies by institution)

  • Entrance exams (varies by institution)

Valuable Internship Experience

  • The program includes an internship experience that allows students to apply their learnings in a real-world setting.

  • Students will gain hands-on experience in medical billing and coding.

  • The internship is designed to prepare students for a career in medical billing and coding.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the difference between a certificate and an associate degree in medical billing and coding?

  • How long does it take to complete an associate degree program in medical billing and coding?

  • What are the admission requirements for an associate degree program in medical billing and coding?

  • What are the job prospects for medical billing and coding professionals?

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