College Catalog

This major prepares students to identify and use a variety of informational resources and technologies to effectively perform entry-level skills in medical coding positions. The curriculum provides basic training in human sciences, medical terminology, computers, and coding and reimbursement. Correct application of coding guidelines is emphasized.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions for inpatient coder, outpatient coder, physician office coder, and coder/data analyst. With additional experience and education, students may progress to supervisory positions in the health information field. Students are eligible to sit for a Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam that is offered through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Individuals who pass the CCA certification exam distinguish themselves from non-credentialed coders and improve their employment prospects.

Recommended High School Subjects

Biology and/or anatomy, medical terminology, keyboarding, and some computer experience are beneficial.

Remediation Strategies

Students should remediate any mathematics or communications deficiencies during the first semester.

Transfer Procedures

This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals

A graduate of this major should be able to:

• use, organize, analyze and evaluate health records according to established guidelines for coding purposes.
• evaluate documentation to support diagnoses, tests, and treatment modalities.
• apply appropriate definitions and guidelines to determine the principal and other diagnoses and procedure codes.
• sequence diagnoses and procedures correctly when more than one are present.
• validate diagnostic and procedural coding.
• assign accurate codes to diseases and procedures by applying knowledge of coding guidelines, anatomy, clinical disease processes, pharmacology and medical terminology.
• demonstrate an understanding of the importance of preserving the security and integrity of confidential patient information.

Curriculum