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?