This certificate is designed to teach students how to use the CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-9 CM code books. Basic coding involves selecting codes when the procedure is straightforward and clearly defined and when the diagnosis is known. Instruction includes locating codes, selecting the most appropriate codes, and some billing issues. This certificate also prepares students to take the CPC exam to become nationally-certified coders.
The college must ensure that clients, patients, or medical information are not placed in jeopardy by students during learning experiences. Therefore, students in office or clinical experiences must demonstrate sufficient emotional stability to withstand the stresses, uncertainties and changing circumstances that characterize client/patient/medical information responsibilities or be removed from placement. Furthermore, the student is expected to have the emotional stability required to exercise sound judgment, accept direction and guidance from a supervisor or faculty member, and establish rapport and maintain sensitive interpersonal relationships with employers, clients/patients and their families.
Expected student outcomes include:| Fall First Year | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| BIO120 | Human Biology | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| OFT117 | Medical Terminology | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| OFT220 | Medical Billing | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| OFT225 | Intro to Medical Coding | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Semester Total | 12 | 2 | 12 | |
| Spring First Year | Lec | Lab | Cr | |
| COM101 | Intro to Windows & Word Processing | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| COM103 | Intro to Spreadsheets | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| COM104 | Intro to the Internet | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| OFT120 | Medical Office Systems and Procedures | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| OFT226 | Medical Coding - The Next Step | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Semester Total | 9 | 0 | 9 | |
| Total credits for the year | 21 | |||
| Total for Certificate | 21 | |||
