Whether you looking to advance your career or enter a new field in Medical Coding, COD offers:

• Licensed Education Provider for the AAPC.
• Exam-based curriculum to ensure there are no surprises when it comes to credentialing exams.
• Fall and spring start dates.
• Dedicated educators with numerous years of field and classroom experience.
• The opportunity to begin your new career in under a year. 

Physician Coding

The Physician Coding certificate provides students with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to perform diagnosis and procedure coding as well as billing for employment in a physician office or outpatient clinic.

To become a certified coder, the following agencies administer coding examinations:

• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
• American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

Incoming health science students have certain requirements that must be met throughout the program. Refer to the resources below for more information.

• Clinical Requirements Packet - Learn more about health requirements you may need to complete prior to registration or after program admission.
• Social Security Number (SSN) Requirements - While the College may not require an SSN for admission to all healthcare programs, students should be aware that the absence of an SSN may limit or prevent their ability to participate in certain clinical experiences, obtain required licensure or certification or secure employment upon graduation. Many healthcare employers, clinical education sites, licensing agencies and credentialing organizations require a valid SSN for employment, criminal background checks, payroll processing and/or professional licensure or certification. Students are strongly encouraged to verify SSN requirements with the applicable licensing board, certifying agency and prospective employers before enrolling in a healthcare program.

Physician Coding program graduates will:

• Apply coding conventions and guidelines for ICD-10-CM and CPT/HCPCS code sets.
• Interpret healthcare documentation to assign correct ICD-10-CM and CPT/HCPCS codes.
• Identify healthcare reimbursement methodologies.
• Explain legal and regulatory requirements related to clinical documentation and code assignment.
• Evaluate the relationship between accurate medical coding and reimbursement.

Both medical billers and coders play crucial roles in the health care revenue cycle, however they perform very different job duties. Medical billers work closely with insurance companies to submit and process claims, reconcile patient accounts, as well as resolve coverage and denial issues. Billers have direct contact with patients so strong communication and customer service skills are required. Whereas coders work directly with patient’s data and medical records. They often work independently.

Yes, BUT, many employers require on site training, or probationary period before working fully remote. Another thing to keep in mind is medical coders are required to meet accuracy and productivity standards as well as be logged in and available for set company hours. Do not expect to able to perform your job duties and care for children at the same time. Many companies require employees sign contracts acknowledging they will have childcare during working hours. However, earning nationally recognized credentials means, you can apply to fully remote jobs throughout the country. 

Credentialed medical coders enjoy higher salaries, they are in high demand, have a variety of job opportunities, and are more likely to be hired over a non-credentialed candidate.

There are limited part-time opportunities for medical coders. The journey to becoming a medical coder is not an easy one and requires highly specialized skills, dedication, and hard work. Additionally, the health care field is one of emerging technologies, ever evolving laws, guidelines, and regulations. Physician coders must stay current to perform their required job duties. Ongoing education and training are required of coders so if you are looking for a “light” job to do after retirement or to work part-time while you meet family commitments, this may not be the right career for you. 

According to the AAPC 2023 Salary Survey, the national average salary for medical coders who hold the CPC credential was $58,895. This average does not account for differing state economies, years of experience or additional education. However, like most professions, experience and demonstrating mastery of skills by earning industry credentials is the biggest factor on higher earnings.