Online Medical Coding Certificates and Diplomas: Program Overviews

Since online medical coding certificates and diploma programs offer the same basic instruction, they are combined for the purpose of this article. Continuing educational opportunities abound for students who have earned a medical coding diploma or certificate.

Online Medical Coding Certificate and Diploma Program Overview

In order to be properly reimbursed by insurance companies, medical offices must submit properly coded documentation of services provided. Medical coding certificate and diploma programs train students in recognizing and applying the codes that correspond to specific procedures. Students enrolled in an online medical coding program learn about third party insurance reimbursement, national medical codes and medical office operations. In addition to coding, these programs are intensive in oral and written communications and medical terminology. Programs are widely available, and there are usually no prerequisite requirements.

Medical Coding Program Requirements

Medical coding programs are typically completed entirely online. There are hybrid programs available for students who prefer to receive on-campus instruction in addition to online classes. These programs may be completed in one year or less, allowing students to quickly enter the workforce. Distance learning classes in medical coding use virtual classroom software, multimedia presentations and e-mail.
In order to successfully participate in online medical coding classes, students must have an active e-mail account, high-speed Internet access and updated computer hardware and software. Students might be required to install Medical Office Simulation Software (MOSS).

List of Common Medical Coding Courses

Besides medical coding, students enrolled in online medical coding certificate and diploma programs learn to properly greet clients, schedule appointments and perform basic bookkeeping functions.

Introductory Insurance Course

This distance learning medical coding course trains students in insurance processing, billing, reimbursement and insurance carriers. Students learn about worker's compensation, Medicare and Medicaid insurance.

Diagnostic Medical Coding Course

Students enrolled in this online medical coding class learn to extract codes from medical documents. Additional topics of study include guidelines by body system, conventions and layout.

Medical Office Procedures Course

This distance learning course introduces students to the daily financial operations of medical offices. Students learn accounting, office management and human resource procedures.

Career Information for Medical Coding Graduates

Students who successfully complete an online medical coding certificate or diploma program might seek certification from the American Academy of Professional Coders, the Board of Medical Specialty Coding or the Professional Association of Health Care Coding Specialists. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a faster than average job growth for medical coders in the decade 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). According to the American Academy of Professional Coders (aapc.com), there is an average salary range of $39,400-$46,500 for medical coders. Credentialed coders might earn more than non-credentialed coders do.

Continuing Education Information

Students who have earned a certificate or diploma in medical coding might wish to further their education by enrolling in an associate's or bachelor's degree program in medical office management or health informatics. There are online options available in both fields.
In addition, the Federal Government has mandated a new medical coding system that must be in place by October 1, 2013. This coding system, called the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition), contains extensive changes to the current system. Students may enroll in online continuing education programs to become certified in ICD-10. These programs typically include all required textbooks and materials.