If you like the idea of being involved in the medical field but want to work from home, you might think about going into medical billing and coding. This job requires you to look at clinical documents to determine which codes to use for billing. This job ensures that medical offices get paid for healthcare services and that patient bills are the correct amount. Given the ever-expanding need for healthcare services, demand for medical billing and coding is also expected to grow.
Another benefit of this career is that it doesn’t require several years of school to get started. You can typically finish a medical billing and coding program in a year or less. If this sounds appealing to you, it’s a good idea to look at medical billing and coding programs.
One factor to take into account before you apply is whether or not a program has accreditation from a trusted agency, such as the AAPC. Learning more about AAPC-accredited medical billing and coding programs can help you understand what to expect from the program you choose.
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What Is AAPC?
The American Academy of Professional Coders, or AAPC, is a professional association that’s been around since 1988. It’s mostly known for its work in training and credentialing within fields that include medical billing and coding, practice management, compliance management, and auditing. Unlike most accrediting agencies, the AAPC offers its own certifications for medical billing and coding. In fact, AAPC has over 28 certifications in this field and boasts over 200,000 members.
What Does AAPC Do?
Most accrediting agencies focus on determining which schools are worthy of accreditation. But the AAPC works a little differently. It offers 28 specialty certifications in medical billing and coding. In addition, it partners with some schools so they can offer AAPC-approved programs.
As a result, as you look at AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools, you can choose the school of your choice — or go through AAPC itself for the certification you want. Either way, you get the education you need to start this career, typically in an online or in-person format.
AAPC Certification Programs
When you attend AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools, you are taking classes that have been vetted and approved by one of the main credential agencies in this field. In fact, all classes must be taught by AAPC approved instructors. These teachers have been formally trained to educate students on the fundamentals of medical billing and coding. This is why the AAPC reports that students who have graduated from their certification classes have high success rates in passing certification exams.
Some of the most common certification courses you’ll find at AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools include:
- Professional Coder Certification
- Outpatient Hospital/Facility Certification
- Inpatient Hospital/Facility Certification
- Risk Adjustment Certification
However, you can also choose a specialty credential to improve your high level of expertise with unique coding areas, with each one typically centering on a different medical focus. For example, some specialty areas you can focus on at AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools include:
- Cardiology
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Ambulatory Surgical Center
- Family Practice
Before choosing a specialty, consider which area you’re most interested in, as well as which ones are in the highest demand in your region.
What Is an Online Medical Billing and Coding Program?
As you browse the AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools, get to know what you’ll be learning. You should also review the format of the learning materials and consider how long the program takes to complete. Keep in mind that most AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools only provide you with a certificate, not a college degree. Some schools require you to have at least an associate degree before enrolling in their certification program. Others will accept a high school diploma but may require you to take extra courses. Either way, most programs allow you to earn a certificate in this field within a year or less.
What Can You Expect from Medical Billing and Coding Coursework?
AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools usually feature similar courses that will prepare you for a career in the field. You should expect to take a variety of classes focusing on both healthcare and the technology that makes it easy to bill for medical procedures.
For example, you’ll likely take courses in:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Medical terminology
- Pathophysiology.
You can also expect to learn about:
- Compliance standards
- Health information technology
- Process of coding medical procedures for billing
In general, most AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools will teach you the skills you need to get started in this career.
What’s the Format of Medical Billing and Coding Programs?
You can usually find AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools that offer online classes, in-person classes, or a hybrid option that includes both. Online programs are the most popular since they offer flexibility that allows students to keep working as they go to school.
If you opt for one of the many AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools available online, you can expect to see a different learning module for each course. Expect quizzes at the end of every module to determine how much you’ve learned. You’ll have reading materials to study, critical-thinking exercises to do, and audio lectures to listen to as you study to get into the field of medical billing and coding.
You may also study real medical cases and charts to get familiar with the terms and practices used in this career. While getting real-world experience — like an externship — isn’t required to get a medical billing and coding certificate, it’s definitely recommended to help with your job prospects in the future.
What Are the Benefits of an AAPC Medical Billing and Coding Program?
If you choose to study to become a medical billing and coding professional, you might find some programs that aren’t accredited by the AAPC or similar agencies. But for best results, you should only consider AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools. There are a few reasons for this.
You’ll Be Prepared to Sit for Certification Exams
For the best chance of getting a job in medical billing and coding, you should stick with AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools. This is because you’ll have the best chance of passing the certification exams that are recommended in this field. In fact, the AAPC reports a pass rate of over 80% among students who take its courses, compared to a pass rate of 22% among students who go through third-party programs. The curriculum at AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools aligns with the certification exams, so you have a higher chance of passing the test when you take an accredited course.
Keep in mind that most employers look for medical billing and coding applicants to have at least one certification on their resume. This requires you to pass the corresponding exam. Popular medical billing and coding certifications to consider include:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
- Certified Outpatient Coding (COC)
- Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC)
If you’re interested in studying to get any of these certifications, AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools can help you prepare for the exams.
You’ll Get Support from the AAPC as You Pursue a Career
One perk of going to one of the many AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools is the support you’ll get even after the program ends. You’ll have the chance to take part in networking events hosted by AAPC, attend conferences, and chat with others in this field through an online forum.
You’ll also get access to the AAPC’s jobs database, which you can search once you’ve completed your certification program and are ready to get a job in medical billing and coding. So if you want to get the education you need for this field in less than a year, with a good chance of finding employment soon after, it’s a good idea to start looking at the AAPC accredited medical billing and coding programs and schools that are available to you today.
AHIMA vs AAPC: Comparing Different Medical Billing and Coding Organizations
Discover the contrasting education requirements of AHIMA and AAPC in the field of medical billing and coding.
Education Requirements
AHIMA offers a comprehensive certification program with two levels, the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). These certifications require a solid grasp of coding principles and a minimum high school diploma. On the other hand, AAPC provides specialized certifications like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Outpatient Coding (COC), which may have varying prerequisites from a high school diploma to an associate degree. Whether you prefer targeted credentials or specialized certifications, AHIMA and AAPC cater to individuals with different educational backgrounds and career aspirations.
Job Opportunities
When it comes to job opportunities in the medical billing and coding field, AHIMA and AAPC are two of the most popular organizations. These organizations offer essential resources and connections to professionals seeking employment in the healthcare industry.
AHIMA’s Career Assist platform is one of the best platforms to find job listings and industry experts. This platform helps link medical billing and coding professionals to valuable job listings and industry experts who can guide them in finding fulfilling healthcare employment. AHIMA also offers certification programs like the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) that can open doors to various healthcare roles, increasing one’s career opportunities.
Similarly, AAPC offers access to a comprehensive jobs database, which is essential for anyone looking to start a career in the medical billing and coding field. AAPC’s certification programs, like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Outpatient Coder (COC), can expand your career options. The CPC certification, for example, can increase job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, or insurance companies, while the COC certification can enhance your chances of working in outpatient healthcare facilities.
Coding Standards
With AHIMA’s Coding Clinic for ICD and the Journal of AHIMA, you will never miss a beat when it comes to staying current on coding rules and regulations. AHIMA’s renowned Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification sets the gold standard for excellence in complex coding systems.
Gain respect and recognition with the highly esteemed Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification from the AAPC. The AAPC medical billing and coding programs are carefully crafted to align with coding standards, equipping you with specialized skills for precision and accuracy in the medical billing and coding process.
AHIMA and the AAPC for accredited schools are both vital in upholding coding standards and empowering professionals. They offer diverse approaches to success in the complex field. Coders and healthcare organizations have the freedom to choose the path that suits them – AHIMA, AAPC medical billing and coding, or both. With the support of these organizations, medical coders can confidently provide accurate, efficient, and compliant medical billing and coding services.
Medical Coding Certifications Offered by the AAPC
AAPC for accredited schools provides an array of certification programs designed to meet the needs of various specialties in the medical coding industry. Whether you are looking to become an expert in outpatient coding or billing and reimbursement, AAPC medical billing and coding has got you covered. With their highly recognized Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification, you can demonstrate your proficiency in outpatient coding, evaluation, and management services, thereby advancing your career prospects.
If billing and reimbursement is your interest, AAPC’s Certified Professional Biller (CPB) certification is a great option. It is designed to enable you to master the billing and reimbursement processes. Certified Outpatient Coding (COC) is another program offered by AAPC medical billing and coding that specializes in hospital outpatient coding expertise.
AAPC for accredited schools has created certifications tailored to different areas of medical practice, such as cardiology, ophthalmology, dermatology, ambulatory surgical center coding, and family practice coding. The Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) certification, specifically designed for hospital inpatient coding, showcases your skills to potential employers, paving the way for greater career advancement.
AAPC’s credentials not only recognize your knowledge and skill in medical coding but also demonstrate your commitment to upholding coding standards in the healthcare industry. Becoming certified by AAPC positions you as a sought-after expert in the industry and helps you make a lasting impact in medical coding.
In conclusion, AAPC’s medical billing and coding certifications validate your expertise and enable you to specialize and refine your skills in various areas of medical coding. Whether you are an aspiring medical coder or looking to take your career to the next level, AAPC provides the tools and opportunities to achieve your goals and make a lasting impact in the healthcare industry.