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Can you take online classes for coding? - Tiredmt

Posted: Dec 20, 2010

I'm new to this board so bear with me. Having been a MT forever it seems, I'm thinking of making a switch to coding. At one point I was even hired as an entry level coder, learning on the job, but when i position came open in transcription took that as it paid better. In hindsight wish I had stuck with the coding as then could have gone either or even both ways. My problem would be having to actually "go" to a school in person , but i would want something reputable, not some of those like you see n the back of magazines. Or maybe those are good? I just don't know. Any help/information from you guys would help.

Thanks

Online coding - Anonymous

[ In Reply To ..]
There are a number of good private online coding programs, many community colleges offer distance learning too. I would recommend the AHIMA or AAPC on line programs but you will need to do your own research.

CareerStep offers a good Coding program from what I hear....nm - Lisa

[ In Reply To ..]
...

Online coding classes - anonII

[ In Reply To ..]
Yes, you can take online classes. Be sure to compare different schools, and ask around to see if anyone you know may have attended one. I know DeVry Institute teaches Health Information Classes, and so does Alfred State College. I know first hand that Alfred has a hands on coding program, designed with practice coding on outpatient, inpatient records, physician based, Emergency room records, and surgery records. Be sure to speak with an instructor with the school you are thinking about, so you can get an idea of what you are wanting.

AHIMA also offers a list of accredited schools, such as community colleges and 4 yr schools if you want to complete a Bachelor's degree.

If you are wanting straight coding classes, check out the Andrews School of Coding, AHIMA education classes, and the AAPC. It just depends on what you are wanting to do. I can tell that being a working coding a lot of facilities are wanting individuals who have both an RHIT (2 yr degree) or RHIA (4 yr) degree plus the CCS, not CCA, but the CCS (Coding Certified Specialist) before they will hire someone. With the changes coming with ICD-10 by 2013, you can expect more hospitals to look for both.

Hope this helps!
Anon II

Online coding classes - Lots of options

[ In Reply To ..]
Be aware that there are relatively few coding jobs in hospitals compared to outside them in the outpatient world. Those jobs just want to see a certification--they don't much care about a degree that may or may not mean you can code. Not saying college programs aren't great, but just that they are not required to begin a career in coding. In fact, even with their accredited, approved programs, they often prepare students poorly for coding work. And they often cost up to $30,000.

Outpatient coders are often paid more and are more highly respected than hospital coders. Keep your options open and do not decide too soo that you only want to work in a hospital.

I work in a hospital, and we don't care how you learned coding or whether your certificaion is from AAPC or AHIMA, as long as you are certified.

Online classes - Skater

[ In Reply To ..]
I agree with you partly on this response by way of hospitals are not the only means to go, but IF you are wanting to work remotely, most companies look for people with 3 or more years of experience to work from home.

Several years ago, I spoke with a physician recruiter who helped place coders and her feedback was that she did not want to take me because I was an RHIT and let me know that I could make more money in a hospital setting. It all depends on demand, for one, and location another. Also, if you are willing or able to move can impact on being able to find coding work.

I agree with keeping your options open. What works for one person, may not work for the other one, so you definitely need to look at different ways of obtaining training. If I had it to do over, I am not to sure I wouldn't look at AHIMA or AAPC because they do offer classes that help prep you for the certification classes without putting you through a mirage of everything else such as statistics, and performance improvement to name a few areas.

It all depends on what you want to do. So check and shop around before making any final decisions!

Best Wishes!

not true - jm

[ In Reply To ..]
"Outpatient coders are often paid more and are more highly respected than hospital coders."

This is stated as if it is a fact, but this is not true. It is someoneâ��s opinion.

It may also depend on where you live. Where I am, the CCS is highly respected and required, and inpatient coders are also highly respected. So remember, everyone is giving OPINIONS here. On the other hand, CPC is also highly respected for physician coding and professional side coding in hospitals. You donâ��t know yet what you will like to do, so do your research and donâ��t take statements like the one above as fact.

totally agree with you - sm

[ In Reply To ..]
Moe often than not, if you are in a hospital or any place that has inpatient coding, outpatient coding is looked at as entry level. I would like to find the place where outpatient coders are paid more and/or are more highly respected! As an outpatient coder, I can tell you that at our facility this is most definitely not true. We are considered not good enough to do the inpatient coding, and we are paid considerably less than the inpatient coders.

I agree too - Anonymous

[ In Reply To ..]
That is true where I work as well. It was always my understanding that inpatient coders made more money, I know they are highly respected.

Coding - Cindy

[ In Reply To ..]
I think that in the hospital setting the inpatient coders seem to be at the top of the pecking order, but physician office coders can oftentimes strike a better deal than inpatient coders. I think this has less to do with the scope of the job, but more to do with the fact that hospitals have very static budgets whereas private practices will oftentimes reward merit and innovation. Just my opinion.

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