Medical Coding General Info
Medical coders assign a code to each diagnosis and procedure by using classification systems books and software. The classification system often determines the amount for which healthcare providers will be reimbursed. Coders may use several coding systems in a variety of healthcare settings.
As a student in the online medical coding program, you will learn the necessary skills to apply codes, submit bills, and communicate with other healthcare professionals.
Upon completion of the diploma program, the student will be eligible to take the Certified Coding Associate certification examination through the American Health Information Management Association to receive the CCA credential.
The demand for medical coders is expected to grow and job prospects should be very good according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
To graduate from this program, you must receive a “C” or better in all courses with the “HIT”, “HSC”, or “MAP” course prefix.
All of these diploma credits can be applied to the completion of an Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Technology.
Future Ready Iowa Scholarships
FREE TUITION / IOWA LAST-DOLLAR SCHOLARSHIP
THIS PROGRAM QUALIFIES. Iowa needs people like you to fill exciting jobs in growing industries. To help keep Iowa moving forward, you can get free tuition for programs that lead to high-demand jobs and good-paying careers. Earn a one-year or two-year degree—all with free tuition. For specific details of the Future Ready Iowa Scholarship (including how to apply) and for a full list of every NCC program that qualifies – click here. Contact NCC’s Financial Aid Office at 712-324-5061 or finaid@nwicc.edu for more information.
Award
- Diploma
Length
- Two Semesters
- Fall semester entry for full-time students. Some online courses are required for the completion of this diploma in two semesters.
- Part-time students may enter any term; however, course prerequisites and corequisites must be followed.
Program Location
- This program is fully online, however, some courses are available on campus.
- Take a virtual tour of NCC’s Health Sciences Building
Contact Admissions
- 712-344-0657
- 800-352-4907
- Email Admissions
Student Story BRANDY JAMES
“I chose NCC, because it had all the things I needed to go back to school and work full-time. The instructors have been very helpful and want you to succeed! I like online learning, because it allows me to work during the day and focus on my classes in the evening.”
Health Information Technology Online student
Tuscaumbia, AL
Requirements for this program
| Course # | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| FALL SEMESTER | 19 | |
| BIO165-A | Human Anatomy and Physiology I | 3 |
| BIO167-A | Human Anatomy and Physiology I Lab | 1 |
| CSC110-A | Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| HIT271-E | Medical Coding I | 3 |
| HIT370-C | Health Records in Acute Care | 3 |
| HSC113-E | Medical Terminology | 2 |
| Elective | Communications* | 3 |
| SPRING SEMESTER | 16 | |
| BIO170-A | Human Anatomy and Physiology II | 3 |
| BIO172-A | Human Anatomy and Physiology II Lab | 1 |
| BIO198-E | Introduction to Pathology | 3 |
| HIT272-E | Medical Coding II | 3 |
| HIT273-E | Medical Coding III | 3 |
| HIT290-C | Reimbursement Methods | 3 |
| Total Credits | 35 |
*You may select any math course with an A, C or E suffix.
Frequently Asked Questions
The employment for medical coders is expected to grow much faster than the average. Job prospects should be very good, especially for technicians with strong computer software skills. The demand for coders has never been greater, and this need is expected to continue for some years into the future.
In northwest Iowa the salary range is salary range for a medical coder is $13.50 – $22/hour.
Classes are a combination of lab, interactive group work, and some lecture.
This program allows you to get out into the workforce after one year of coursework. This is one of the few health-related occupations in which there is no direct hands-on patient care.
Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Office will work with you to reach the goal of attending college. Federal and state programs, scholarships and other funding sources, may be available to help you to afford college. We know there are a lot of questions and stress planning to pay for a college education. The Financial Aid Office staff administers aid programs and counsels students in planning individual methods of meeting college costs. Contact the Financial Aid Office for answers to any questions regarding financial aid. What are you waiting for? Let’s get started! Northwest Iowa Community College follows a nationally accepted philosophy in administering financial aid programs.
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