Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Academic Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Academic Catalog Archived Catalog

Medical Coding, AAS


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Health information coding is the transformation of verbal descriptions of diseases, injuries, and procedures into alphanumeric designations. Currently, reimbursement of hospital and physical claims for patients depends entirely on the assignment of codes. Coding is one of the fastest growing professions in the United States.  Upon completion of this program, students will be able to

  • Demonstrate the professional work habits expected in the medical coding profession including confidentiality and ethical practices;
  • Apply medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and disease process knowledge to seek the appropriate code;
  • Complete insurance forms (HCFA) using ICD-10-CM, CPT and HCPCS codes;
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate orally and in writing;
  • Abstract code data from medical records; and
  • Demonstrate effective leadership skills. 

Required Courses


First Year


Second Year


Total Credits: 64


RIndicates Related Instruction requirement.

*Indicates prerequisite or corequisite needed. Check course description.

Recommended Course Offering:


Students receiving financial aid or veteran’s benefits should check with the Financial Aid Office before registering for recommended courses.

Program Information


  • An internship is an option for this program.
  • Students must apply for placements for this program the prior semester. For more information, contact Cathy Allard, Career Advisor, at (406) 756-3808 or callard@fvcc.edu.
  • Students in the Medical Coding program must earn a “C-” or better in AHMS 210  to receive this degree.
  • All courses within this program must be taken for a letter grade. No courses may be taken on a Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (S/U) basis.
  • Students who complete this program should be prepared to sit for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) examination.
  • Some classes may only be offered online.

Opportunities After Graduation


  • Rapid growth in the health services industry as a whole and the expansion of the medical community in the area should fuel growth within this occupation. Positions for Health Information Technicians in Montana are projected to experience an 18% growth increase from 2008-2018.
  • Students are encouraged to take the CCA / CCS or AAPC Exams.
  • Apprenticeship opportunities may be available for this program.  See the Faculty Advisor for more information.

Advising Information


For more information about this program, contact an advisor.

Academic Advisor Faculty Advisor
Jori Bullemer Brenda Rudolph, M.B.A.
LRC 129 BSS 106
(406) 756-3905 (406) 756-3858
jbullemer@fvcc.edu brudolph@fvcc.edu

 

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