Medical Billing and Coding (MBCX)

This introductory course provides a comprehensive overview of the ICD-10-PCS and ICD-10-CM coding systems, designed for students new to medical coding. Students will learn the basics of coding medical and surgical diagnoses and procedures, gaining the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of both coding systems. Using a virtual coding simulation platform, students will engage in practical coding exercises and assignments that reinforce their learning and provide hands-on experience. This approach ensures that students develop the skills to accurately document medical diagnoses and procedures through real-world scenarios.

This is a beginning level course in CPT, a clinical coding system used to code and bill procedures and services provided by outpatient facilities, physicians, and other health care professionals. The formation, organization, and usage of CPT, as well as its guidelines and common problems are covered. This course also introduces Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS Level II) codes.

Building on concepts learned in ICD-10 and CPT, learners will advance coding skills by assigning valid diagnostic and procedural codes for a variety of complex cases and clinical scenarios. The focus of the course is to improve speed, accuracy, and problem solving ability with regard to coding outpatient procedures in order to achieve the correct reimbursement.

The primary focus of this course is to study the uses of coded data and health information in reimbursement and payment systems appropriate to all health care settings and managed care. The course explores complex coding areas that are difficult for coders. Clinical information regarding specific disease processes will be covered as well as diagnostic and procedural terminology. It builds upon previous knowledge of the basic principles and conventions of the ICD 10 and CPT coding system.

This course provides students with a realistic simulation of the tasks and challenges faced by medical billers and coders. Students will use real-world coding technologies in a virtual practice environment to code patient case scenarios and authentic patient cases using coding manuals. Via peer review, students will develop skills validating coded patient cases and assessing clinical documentation and its alignment with coding. Through hands-on practice and application, students will develop the coding, critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and communication skills necessary to excel in the medical coding field.