Medical Billing and Coding

Graduates of this program are prepared as entry-level professionals in revenue cycle functions, including medical coding and billing, data entry, patient access, insurance reimbursement, and compliance with health information privacy, security, and reporting requirements. Students know how to code healthcare data using ICD and CPT coding principles and understand how these skills contribute to other areas in the healthcare facility. They learn to navigate electronic, paper, and hybrid health records and obtain the information necessary to correctly code medical information and perform billing functions. They know medical terminology, anatomy, pathophysiology and pharmacology, basic computer skills, and the use of industry-relevant medical coding software. Graduates value the importance of confidentiality of patient information, effective communication, teamwork, and ethical and professional behavior. They are prepared to work in a variety of healthcare-related settings, including hospitals, physician practices, insurance companies, billing companies, government agencies, long-term care, home health, rehabilitation, behavioral health, and skilled nursing facilities.

• Medical Biller
• Medical Coder
• Medical Insurance Claims Clerk / Specialist
• Medical Collections Specialist
• Patient Services Representative / Navigator
• Patient Access Representative
• Patient Registrar
• Medical Records Clerk

This program is not designed to prepare graduates for any state-issued professional license or certification. Graduates of this program may take the Certified Coding Associate (CCA®) certification exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA®). AHIMA® requires only a high school diploma (or equivalent) to sit for the CCA® exam but recommends completion of a coding training program or six months of coding experience. Further details are available at https://www.ahima.org/certification/CCA.

In addition to meeting all other admissions requirements, applicants must successfully pass a background check through Rasmussen University’s chosen third-party vendor. An additional background check may also be required during active enrollment prior to practicum or clinical placement depending on site requirements. Any prospective student must also consider their history, lifestyle, and future actions before enrolling in this program, and carefully consider whether their actions may prevent them from attaining employment in the field they choose to pursue. Additional requirements, such as industry-specific training may be required to obtain employment in this field. Applicants for careers in this field may be subject to pre-employment screenings such as, but not limited to, criminal background checks, and drug/or alcohol testing. Employment decisions, including whether to require background checks and other tests, are made at the discretion of the employer.

Developmental Education courses do not count toward total program credits and are not calculated in GPA. Students must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Developmental Education courses through a Rasmussen University entrance placement exam, approved exemption based on previously completed coursework, or by passing Developmental Education courses.