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POWELL, Wyo. - The Northwest College Cody Center for Training and Development will offer an 80-hour Medical Billing and Coding Professional course beginning Tuesday, Oct. 11. The class meets from 6-9:30 p.m. most Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 and Nov. 19.
Medical billing and coding is one of the fastest growing careers in the health care industry. Physician practices, hospitals, pharmacies, long-term care facilities, chiropractic and physical therapy practices and other health care providers all depend on medical billing and coding for insurance carrier reimbursement.
Medical billing and coding professionals assign alphanumeric codes to specific illnesses, injuries and medical procedures, under a system of medical coding that is used across the health care system, from doctors' offices and hospitals to insurance companies, federal agencies and international organizations. They are also responsible for reviewing physician charges and patient data to ensure that claims are submitted to insurance carriers accurately and efficiently.
Average annual salaries for medical coders range from $29,000 to over $46,000, depending upon certification and place of employment, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Cody CTD’s Medical Billing and Coding Professional course does not require the use of a computer; it focuses on the proper use of coding and related coding manuals. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is recommended.
Students will learn the skills needed to solve insurance billing problems, manually file claims (using the CPT and ICD-9 manual), complete common insurance forms, trace delinquent claims (EOBs) and use generic forms (CMS 1500) to streamline billing procedures.
After obtaining suggested practical work experience, students who complete this course can become eligible to sit for one or more of several national certification examinations.
The cost of the class is $1,799; however, training subsidization for new and existing positions is available from the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Training Fund. The limited funds are available to employers who meet strict application deadlines and matching-dollar obligations. Details are available online.
For more information about what the Medical Billing and Coding Professional course covers and career options it makes available, follow the “Medical Billing and Coding Professional” link.
For personal assistance in exploring this or other training offerings from the NWC Cody Center for Training and Development, email Cody CTD or call 307-587-3506.