Medical Coding and Billing Training

CHCP's on-campus, blended-learning Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program is designed to help students develop proficiency in basic billing and coding skills, mastering the tools they’ll need to pursue an exciting career in as little as 10 months.

During the 38-week Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program, CHCP students can learn to comprehend, navigate, and apply current CPT, HCPCS, and ICD code sets for medical coding and billing careers across diverse healthcare settings. The program also includes training in utilizing medical management software, interpreting and filing medical documentation, and processing insurance claims, providing students with a comprehensive foundation of knowledge.

On-Campus Flexible Learning

The CHCP Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program offers maximum flexibility for students, giving them the power to determine which education path is right for them. Students enrolled in the on-campus program will benefit from a hybrid schedule, supplemented by online learning at any of our Texas campus locations. Live out of state? Explore our entirely online Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program.

Taking Your Education Further

Credits earned for the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate at CHCP have dual value, as they can be transferred to either the Health and Medical Administration Services AAS Degree Program or the Coding and Revenue Cycle Management AAS Degree Program. Both programs are designed for degree completion, enabling students to pursue managerial roles and advance their careers.

Medical Billing and Coding Certification Texas | Our Locations

Students can pursue the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program at every CHCP campus, strategically located near major medical facilities across prominent Texas metropolitan areas. Our innovative blended learning options offer the best of both worlds to enhance the overall educational experience: on-campus medical billing and coding classes with hands-on training from experienced healthcare professionals, and minimized commute times for students.

Medical Coding and Billing | Skills and Course Modules

Our medical billing and coding training is designed to provide you with the necessary skills to be an excellent medical claims specialist. Some of the skills and knowledge presented in the billing and coding program include:

Medical terminology
CPT, HCPCS, and ICD code systems
Healthcare delivery systems
Organization
Anatomy and physiology
Healthcare law and ethics
Medical coding
Medical billing
Electronic health record management
Insurance claim handling
Filing systems
Professionalism with patients and other medical personnel

MODULE IMODULE IIMODULE IIIMODULE IVMODULE VMODULE VIMODULE VIIMODULE VIII

Master Student/Study Skills

MSS130

Students will become familiar with basic study and learning skills to include learning styles, goal setting, memorization techniques, reading comprehension, note taking, test taking, critical thinking, effective communication diversity, and technology. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	8	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	8	hr.
Credits	0.5

HIPAA / OSHA / Infection Control

HIP130

Students will learn about the Health Information Portability and Privacy Act (HIPAA). This course will identify rights for individuals and the processes that health care providers must implement to support individual rights. Students must demonstrate knowledge of the rules for the use and disclosure of information. Students will learn about transmission of disease, hand washing techniques and gloving. This course will ensure that students are aware of biohazards and airborne pathogens, including infection control procedures and laboratory safety. Students must demonstrate infection control procedures and laboratory safety. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	10	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	10	hr.
Credits	0.5

Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Medical Terminology

OAPT130

Students will learn and Identify basic structures, functions and dysfunctions of the body, as well as medical terminology, abbreviations and symbols that are necessary tools for building a medical vocabulary. This course covers general treatment of the sensory, skeletal and muscular, nervous, endocrine, digestive, respiratory, Circulatory, Urinary and reproductive, and integumentary systems. Prerequisite: None

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	3

Medical Law and Ethics

MA305

The students will learn the legal relationships of physicians and patients, contractual agreements, professional liability, malpractice, medical practice acts, informed consent, and bioethical issues. Emphasis is placed on legal terms, professional attitudes, and the principles and basic concepts of ethics and laws involved in providing medical services. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Principles of Insurance A

MCB300

Students will learn the life cycle of health insurance claim to include terminology, policies and procedures and revenue cycle management. Students will also learn Medicare and Medicaid basics including terminology, eligibility, and claims and billing processes. HIPAA Compliance and Regulatory Laws will also be reviewed. Research Project 1 – Career Services Project. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Basics of Coding A: CPT/HCPCS

MCB301

Students will learn the basics of converting descriptions of procedures into numerical codes (CPT/HCPCS) to provide uniform language to identify medical, surgical and diagnostic services. Prerequisite: Mod I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	24	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	5

Medical Office Procedures/Management

MAAS212G

Students will learn manual and computerized records management, how to take patient histories, filing, appointments and scheduling, basic bookkeeping, billing/collections, banking/payroll, telephone techniques, safety of the medical office and professional conduct. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	48	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	3

Basics of Coding B: ICD

MCB302

The students will learn procedural coding guidelines for use with the ICD-10 classifications (3, 4, or 5-7 codes) to provide etiology, site, or manifestation of disease. They will also learn the process of converting procedure descriptions into numerical codes related to the Evaluation and Management section of the CPT, and review facility coding (ICD-10 PCS). Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	12	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1

Principles of Insurance B

MCB303

Students will learn health insurance terminology and policies, Revenue Cycle Management, along with eligibility policies and procedures. Students will also learn concepts of Blue Plans, Private Health Insurance, Managed Care Plans, TRICARE, CHAMPVA, Workers’ Compensation, disability income insurance and disability benefit programs. Research Project 2 – Career Services Project. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Anatomy and Physiology/Medical Terminology A

MCB304

Students will learn the structure and function of the Urinary System, Reproductive System, Digestive System, and Mental Health. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Coding A

MCB305

This course is a review of the official ICD-10 guidelines for coding and reporting. The course reviews the history of classification systems with emphasis on the basic rules and guidelines. Students will learn how to maneuver in different computerized encoding systems by assigning codes and using various references available. The students will learn procedural coding guidelines for use with the ICD-10 classifications (3, 4, or 5-7 codes) to provide etiology, site, or manifestation of disease. Additionally, students will learn CPT Surgical subsection codes for Female Genital system, including maternity care and delivery, Male Genital System, Intersex Surgery, Urinary System, digestive system, Mental Health, Pathology and Laboratory, selected Radiology and Medicine Sections. Research Project 3 –Career Services Project. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	12	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1

Principles of Insurance C

MCB306

Student will learn concepts of collection strategies, medical documentation, Medical office problem solving and how to complete paper and electronic claims, and sequence codes according to established guidelines and standards while applying reimbursement methodologies. Hospital billing, payment and claims based on hospital stay and settings are also taught. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	12	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1

Pathology A

MCB307

Students will learn the diseases and procedures of the Urinary System, Reproductive System, Digestive System and Mental Health. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Anatomy and Physiology/Medical Terminology B

MCB308

Students will learn the structure and function of Blood and Blood-Forming Organs, and Immune Mechanism, Circulatory System, Respiratory System. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Coding B

MCB309

This course is a review of the official ICD-10 guidelines for coding and reporting. Students will learn CPT Surgical subsection codes for Cardiovascular System, Lymphatic System, Immune system, Respiratory System, selected Radiology and selected Medicine Sections. Students will also learn procedural coding guidelines for use with the ICD-10 classifications (3, 4, or 5-7 codes) to provide etiology, site, or manifestation of disease. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	36	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	2

Pathology B

MCB310

Students will learn the diseases and procedures of Blood and Blood-Forming Organs, and Immune Mechanism, Circulatory System, Respiratory System. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Anatomy and Physiology/Medical Terminology C

MCB311

Students will learn the structure and function of the Integumentary System, Musculoskeletal System, Nervous System, Endocrine System, and Special Senses (Eyes and Ears). Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Coding C

MCB312

This course is a review of the official ICD-10 classifications (3, 4, or 5-7 codes) to provide etiology, site, or manifestation of disease. This course will also review UHDDS Coding guidelines and their application, and learn how to maneuver in different computerized encoding systems by assigning codes and using various references available. Additionally, students will learn CPT Surgical subsection codes for Integumentary System, Musculoskeletal System, Nervous System, Endocrine System, and Special Sense (Eyes and Ears), Anesthesia, selected Radiology and Medicines sections, and Level II National Codes. Research Project 5 – Career Services Project. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	36	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	2

Pathology C

MCB313

Students will learn the diseases and procedures of the Integumentary System, Musculoskeletal System, Nervous System, Endocrine System, and Special Senses (Eyes and Ears). Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	24	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	24	hr.
Credits	1.5

Electronic Health Records

MA 309

This course reviews the history of and current state of the electronic health record, trends, healthcare information applications such as clinical information systems, administrative information systems, and management support systems. Students will explore the transition from a paper based health record to an electronic health record and the associated issues, such as electronic billing. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	28	hr.
Laboratory	36	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	64	hr.
Credits	3

Computer Applications

MCB314

Student will learn basic word processing, keyboarding skills, concepts related to hardware and software applications. Students will learn Microsoft Office Suite Applications. Prerequisite: Module I

Lecture	12	hr.
Laboratory	20	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	32	hr.
Credits	1

Customer Service/Professionalism and Career Preparation

CSP201

This course will teach the student about professionalism, including work-place behaviors that result in positive business relationships. Students will learn goal-setting, stress-management, time-management, professional dress, etiquette, diversity in the work place relationships, excellent customer service, communication at work, conflict management, job search skills, building resumes, and interview techniques.. Prerequisite: Module I-VII

Lecture	30	hr.
Laboratory	18	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	48	hr.
Credits	2.5

MCB Cert Prep

MCB315

Certification Prep allows the student to review for a state or national registry. This is done by using review material and the use of practice exam that covers all areas of the exam. Student will complete exam application and take certification exam. Prerequisite: Module I-VII

Lecture	30	hr.
Laboratory	15	hr.
Externship	0	hr.
Total Hours	45	hr.
Credits	2.5

MCB Externship

MCB316

Students will be able to apply in a practical setting the professional skills learned in the classroom, as a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist Prerequisite: Module I-VII

Lecture	0	hr.
Laboratory	0	hr.
Externship	205	hr.
Total Hours	205	hr.
Credits	4.5

Medical Coding and Billing Certification and Course Outcomes

The goal of our Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program is to help prepare students to take the Nationally Registered Certified Coding Specialist (NRCCS) Certification Exam, which demonstrates to prospective employers a proficiency in performing procedural and diagnostic medical coding and billing in healthcare practices. Once students obtain medical billing and coding certification, they can begin pursuing their new careers as certified medical billing professionals. Curious about the added value of CHCP’s Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program? Explore what sets our certificate program apart and how you can leverage program credits to further your healthcare education.

The Medical Coding and Billing Role

The occupational outlook for medical billing and coding is promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimating an 9% growth rate from 2022 through 2032. Medical billing and coding professionals must be detail-oriented, organized, and self-disciplined to ensure that all data is entered accurately and on time. Professionals working in medical billing and coding may be referred to by several different titles depending on their specific role, including:

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Medical Biller
Medical Coder
Health Claims Specialist
Medical Claims Specialist
Medical Records Specialist
Health Records Specialist
Insurance Coder
Medical Records Technician
Health Information Technician

Due to the administrative nature of their role, medical billing and coding specialists are found in a variety of healthcare settings that can range greatly in terms of day-to-day schedule, overall flexibility, and location. Other settings in which a medical coding and billing specialist may work include but aren’t limited to the following:

Physician Offices
Hospitals
Outpatient Medical Facilities
Long Term Medical Facilities
Post-Acute Care Facilities
Insurance Companies
Free-Standing Emergency Care Service/Urgent Care Facilities
Ambulance Services

Once you meet the prerequisites, you can enroll!

To learn more about enrollment, simply fill out the form. One of our counselors will contact you soon with more information on our medical billing and coding training program.

Start Your Application

How to Become a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist | Admission Criteria

If you’re ready to take the next step towards an exciting new career, we’re here to help. To apply for the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program, simply fill out this application form and provide details about your preferred program, location, and contact information. Once submitted, a CHCP advisor will be in touch to guide you through the remaining steps.

Before diving in, make sure you meet the following admission criteria:

High school diploma or GED
Scholastic Level Exam score of at least 12 (score of 13 for the online program)
Proficiency in reading and writing in English

Need more information? Our dedicated team is here to support you at every turn, offering personalized assistance and lifelong career services. Connect with one of our admissions advisors to kickstart your journey today.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program

What is Medical Coding?

Medical coding and billing are two related but distinct processes within the healthcare industry. Medical coding involves transforming medical diagnoses, treatments, and procedures into alphanumeric codes; these codes are used for a variety of purposes, including billing, quality reporting, and research. Medical billing involves submitting claims to insurance companies or government programs for reimbursement based on those codes.

What Does a Person in Medical Billing and Coding Do?

Medical billing and coding plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry by ensuring that healthcare providers are reimbursed correctly for their services and that accurate data are collected for research and quality improvement purposes. Medical coders and billers collaborate to process payments for patient care. Despite their close relationship and shared responsibilities, there are some slight differences in their duties.

Check out our Medical Billing and Coding Career Guide for a breakdown of daily tasks!

Is Medical Billing and Coding Hard?

While medical billing and coding may be challenging, it is a career for individuals who enjoy working in the healthcare industry and have a passion for accuracy and organization. It requires attention to detail; knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology; and continuing education on changes in regulations and coding systems.

CHCP provides the necessary training and education for students to learn and perform medical billing and coding tasks.

Learn more about what to expect as a medical coding and billing student at CHCP.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Medical Coder?

CHCP’s Medical Billing and Coding Certificate typically takes 38 weeks for the on-campus or blended program and 48 weeks for the online program. The program consists of eight modules, including lectures, labs, and externship experience. After completing the certificate program, some students may also choose to pursue an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Coding and Revenue Cycle Management, which takes approximately 22 months to complete and provides an additional level of education.

What Classes are Required for Medical Billing and Coding?

The Medical Coding and Billing Program can equip you with the skills to interpret and convert medical records into the current CPT, HCPCS, and ICD coding sets used in healthcare settings. Our program includes instruction in the fundamentals of medical coding and billing, how to utilize medical management software, and how to read and submit medical documents, billing forms, and insurance claims.

You will participate in a billing and coding externship, allowing you to gain hands-on experience as a billing and coding specialist in a practical setting. Additionally, you will take a prep course to prepare for the national certification exam upon completion of the certificate program.

Learn more about the classes you will take in our medical billing and coding training and what it covers.

Is Medical Billing and Coding Worth It?

Yes! Medical billing and coding is a career that can be started within a year, upon completing the CHCP program. Demand is high for qualified medical coding and billing administrative professionals throughout healthcare.

According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, it has estimated that from 2021-31 there will be a 7% increase in demand, creating an estimated additional 12,300 job openings.

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Find the Career of Your Dreams

CHCP is an ABHES Accredited Allied Healthcare College dedicated to guiding our students on their path to a rewarding career. In addition to programs for medical billing and coding, we also offer a diverse selection of certificate programs, stackable degrees, and professional development opportunities. Get in touch with an admissions advisor today and get started on your journey towards a satisfying healthcare career.

Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program

Classes Start April 7th