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The coding specialist reviews medical documentation provided by physicians and other health care providers and translates this into numeric codes. The coding specialist assigns and sequences diagnostic and procedural codes using universally recognized coding systems.
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The coding specialist is a key member of the health care team. Reimbursement to the health care provider is often dependent on the diagnostic and procedural codes assigned. Knowledge of both the medical and business sides of health care make this an interesting profession. Medical coding specialists should possess the ability to be precise and detail-oriented and the ability to adhere to standards and guidelines.
Coding specialists work in health care facilities such as hospitals, clinics, physician practice groups, surgery centers, long-term care facilities, and home health care agencies. Coding specialists are also employed by consulting firms, coding and billing services, insurance companies, governmental agencies and computer software companies. Medical coding specialists work in an office environment using medical records and computers. Full- and part-time employment opportunities are available.
High school students should study health, biology and computer courses. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Formal programs are offered at vocational/technical schools. Course work may include medical terminology, body structure and function, pathophysiology, and medical coding. Individuals may become certified by passing examinations offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Blackhawk Technical College
Carroll University
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Fox Valley Technical College
Gateway Technical College
Lakeshore Technical College
Madison Area Technical College
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Moraine Park Technical College
Northcentral Technical College
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Waukesha County Technical College
Western Technical College
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College - New Richmond
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College - Superior
Average $31,300
American Academy of Professional Coders
2480 South 3850 West, Suite B
Salt Lake City, UT, 84120
800/626- (CODE) 2633
www.aapc.com/
American Health Information Management Association
233 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 2150
Chicago, IL, 60601-5809
312/233-1100
www.ahima.org
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