- Medical coding certificate programs can take up to a year. Most reputable certificate programs prepare the student to sit for one of the nationally recognized coding certifications. The Academy of Professional Coders offers the Certified Professional Coder certification, while the American Health Information Management Association offers the Certified Coding Specialist credential. Look for a program that is endorsed by either of those organizations.
- Associates degrees in Health Information Technology prepares students for careers as a medical coders or supervisors. Upon completion of the program, the student may sit for the Registered Health Information Technician exam or the CCS exam. Both credentials qualify the student for a career as a medical coder in a hospital.
- Bachelors degrees in Health Information Administration qualifies students to become office managers, health information managers or coding managers. The programs include medical coding education as well as other regulatory and medical education. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator exam.
- Medical coders work in a variety of environments, including medical clinics, insurance companies and hospitals. Each setting has its own education and credentialing requirements. Research the settings in your area before deciding on your education.
- Medical coding can be a high-stress position. Before beginning your education, it is helpful to work in a medical clinic's billing office or a hospital medical records department before embarking on medical coding education.
