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Coding schools/education - coding student

Posted: Mar 26, 2014

I think it would be very helpful for many people if some of the more senior coding people on this forum could advise on what new coders should look for in a school or training program. I'm not looking for specific names, but rather that you should make sure your school teaches A, B and C. Things you want to avoid are X, Y and Z.

Personally, my first school would probably have done the trick (a community college) if not for the fact that they only offered certain classes during certain semesters. If I had stayed there it was going to take me over two years to finish, because I needed to go part time. That was not something I had thought about at the time.

If, for whatever reason you do not like this question, please don't get nasty -- just don't answer it. It won't hurt my feelings one bit. I feel like coding education can be confusing.

I am also interested in this information. - sm

[ In Reply To ..]
I am taking a coding program that has advisors, not instructors, that simply follows a workbook (Nelly Leon Chisen) and then has us take a chapter test. I'm struggling a bit with this way of learning, given how elaborate coding is, so I would love some advice on coding programs as well.

coding school suggestions - anon

[ In Reply To ..]
This is not exhaustive but some things that I looked for when choosing a program. If you want to take the CCS exam (through AHIMA), I copied this from their site about requirements (or you could qualify by experience, but these are requirements of your educational program if you do not have experience):
By Education: Completion of a coding training program that includes anatomy & physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, reimbursement methodology, intermediate/advanced ICD diagnostic/procedural and CPT coding.

There are some confusing areas in coding as you progress and I would recommend that you ask what instructors are available (for an on line course) for any questions that may arise, AND do they have CURRENT coding experience? I have a friend who took a course through her community college which was taught by an instructor who had NEVER coded and was just teaching from the book, but was not of much help. I am not putting down community college courses and this may be a great option, but be sure to ask if the instructor has actually coded!

Good luck, it is hard to make that initial decision and you don't want to waste your hard-earned money on a program that does not prepare you!

AAPC website - coder2

[ In Reply To ..]
check it out - your local chapter may offer classes. I took a class to get my CPC through our local chapter, less expensive, but it was intense training, lots of studying. It does help if you already have medical terminology knowledge. Good luck!

More school suggestions - education suggestions

[ In Reply To ..]
I have a 2 year AAS in Health Information Technology from the local technical school. This was a fully accredited program that prepared me for the RHIT, which is a very versatile and highly recognized credential. I took a total of 4 coding courses spread throughout the program. The thing that makes this program unique is that it includes more than just coding.

Are you working as a coder? - And what kind?

[ In Reply To ..]
How many years did it take you tocomplete that program and what was the total cost?

educational programs - more information

[ In Reply To ..]
First of all, Yes I am working as a coder. I was hired less than a month after I graduated. I am a Coder I which is considered entry level. I code clinic for the local health system that includes both clinic and hospital. I was actually a transcriptionist who transitioned to coding. I did the program in 2 years. I did it part time as I was working full time, but was able to transfer in my general education coursework. The total cost of the program was about 18 to 20,000, but I did receive educational reimbursement from my employer. Hope this answers your question.

Thank you so much for the advice! - OP

[ In Reply To ..]
Some very good suggestions/ideas.

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