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Medical Coder
Technical Diploma
Why choose Medical Coder?
- The future of medical records is electronic—coded and processed into a secure digital format.
- Get the training needed for employment as an entry-level medical coder, where you will assign diagnosis and procedure codes for billing, quality improvement, statistical reporting, and medical research.
- Graduate into many great careers, or advance your education in the Health Information Management associate in applied science (AAS).
- Interested in earning a bachelor’s degree? For transfer opportunities, visit mstc.edu/transfer.
At one time, patient medical histories had to be pieced together by tracking down isolated paper records from different providers. Today they are increasingly coded and processed into a secure digital format that authorized medical personnel can access. These electronic health records (EHR) allow physicians and other caregivers to make informed decisions quickly, drastically improving quality of care and efficiency.
Program Locations
Stevens Point Campus
1001 Centerpoint Drive
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Length of Program: One Year
Credits: 31
Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Start at any time or location by taking general education courses.
What You'll Learn
The Medical Coder program at Mid-State prepares students for entry-level work as medical coders in health care settings, such as hospitals, physician offices, long-term care facilities, and more. Medical coders review medical documentation and assign diagnosis and procedure codes for the purposes of billing, quality improvement, statistical reporting, and medical research.
In this program, you’ll be introduced to reimbursement principles and build proficiency in assigning codes across all settings. After program completion, graduates may qualify to take the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credentialing exam through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Estimated Entire Program Cost
Cost based on the 2019/2020 academic calendar year.
- Tuition & Fees: $4,595.89
- Books: $2,080.19
- Supplies, Uniforms, and/or Exams: $110.00
- Total Estimated Cost: $6,786.08
Financial Aid Eligibility
This program is eligible for full Financial Aid.
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10501101 | Medical Terminology | 3.00 | |
| 10530111 | Introduction to Health Records | 3.00 | |
| 10806189 | Basic Anatomy | 3.00 | |
| (9 Credits) |
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10530144 | CPT Coding | 3.00 | |
| 10530182 | Human Disease for the Health Professions | 3.00 | |
| 10530122 | Electronic Health Records | 3.00 | |
| 10530197 | ICD Diagnosis Coding | 3.00 | |
| (12 Credits) |
| Catalog# | Title | Credits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10530166 | Inpatient Procedure Coding | 3.00 | |
| 10530146 | Private and Government Reimbursement | 3.00 | |
| 10530147 | HIM Advanced Coding | 3.00 | |
| (9 Credits) |
| (30 Credits) |
Instructors
KERRY HEINECKE, AAS, BS, MS
Kerry has a master’s degree from Northwestern University and 17 years of experience working in software and health information management for medical providers. She has taught in the Wisconsin Technical College System for over 10 years. To keep up with emerging trends, she attends professional development sessions for HIIM educators and serves on a number of industry leadership boards.
“I teach by trying to reach students' hearts because I want to help people discover their passion in life.”
ANGELA VOIGHT, AAS
Angela earned her associate degree from Mid-State Technical College and has four years of experience as a medical coder for local hospitals. To keep her skills and professional certifications up to date, she attains 56 credits of continuing education every year.
“I enjoy teaching because of the 'aha' moments.”
Careers
- Chargemaster Coordinator
- Coding Specialist
- Coding Support Specialist
- Medical Coder
- Additional Resources
Take the Next Step
“Earning a degree at Mid-State allowed me to widen my employment possibilities outside my limited geographical area and elevate my earning potential. I was even able to take required courses online and continue with ‘life as usual.’”
LORINDA LEACH
GRADUATE
Choose Your Path
Career pathways help you take your education one step at a time to maximize your investment and make college fit your life. Earn a credential and start using it in the workforce. Continue with another stack of related courses to gain a more advanced diploma or degree.
Transfer • Dual Credit • Credit for Prior Learning
