Train for a Flexible, Remote Career

The Physician Coding certificate is a highly specialized training program designed to prepare students for a career as a professional medical coder.

Students will learn how to interpret medical documentation and apply diagnostic and procedural coding systems required for reimbursement of physician services.

Physician Coders work in health care but do not provide direct patient care. Many coders work remotely and enjoy predictable work schedules that usually do not include nights or weekends. In addition, medical coders can expect continued job growth with increased wages as health care continues to expand. Successful physician coders are detail-oriented, possess analytic problem-solving skills and are comfortable working independently and with computers. They are committed to ongoing education and learning new skills as the evolving health care landscape demands.

While earning the certificate, students will explore medical terminology, basic anatomy, pharmacology, ICD-10-CM and CPT code sets, reimbursement methodologies and legal concepts related to patient privacy, billing, and insurance reimbursement. The Physician Coding certificate incorporates theory and real-world, hands-on coding activities giving learners the confidence and skills needed to enter the coding profession. Physician Coding courses align with the AAPC’s Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification, a nationally recognized and highly sought industry credential.

Courses are offered part-time (three classes each semester), in the evenings and are delivered through a combination of online and hybrid formats (depending on the course) making it ideal for working professionals or those who have other daytime commitments.

Registration Information

For more information on how to get started in the Physician Coding certificate program, read through the Physician Coding Registration Packet.

Determine Your Path

Both medical coders and billers play crucial roles in the health care revenue cycle, however they perform different job duties. Medical coders work directly with patient’s records, translating provider documentation to diagnostic and procedure code. They must possess the ability to work independently, be good with computers and possess strong critical thinking skills.

Medical billers work closely with insurance companies to submit and process claims, reconcile patient accounts and resolve coverage and denial issues. Billers have direct contact with patients therefore, strong communication and customer service skills are required. For students interested in medical billing, COD offers a certificate in Medical Billing that provides a comprehensive overview of the medical billing process.

Why COD

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. 

Certificate

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)

Get Started Today

The first step to getting started in the Physician Coding program is to read the Physician Coding Registration Packet. The packet contains a registration checklist that you will need to follow in order to be eligible for admission.

Program Course Map Options

Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree or certificate that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.

• Physician Office Coding and Billing, Certificate

Program Learning Outcomes

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.

Careers

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your frequently asked questions regarding this program.

 

What is the difference between Medical Coding and Medical Billing?

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.

Can I work remotely as a coder?

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. 

Why should I get my Physician Coding credential?

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.

I just want a part-time job. I’m retired or caring for small children, is this right for me?

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. 

How much money will I make?

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.