Health Information Technology Certificate - Coding Specialist

HIT Certificate Courses

Preferred Course Sequence

Semester I Cr Hrs
HIT-110 Introduction to Health Information Technology

This course provides an introduction to health information management and the organization of healthcare delivery in the acute care setting. Analysis of health records in paper, hybrid and electronic formats will form the basis of classroom discussion. Emphasis is on the documentation requirements for licensure, accreditation and certification. Other topics include data sets, storage and retrieval and the use and structure of healthcare data. Hands-on activities build on lecture topics such as record assembly and analysis, chart location, master patient index, physician documentation and release of information.

 Prerequisite: Grade of "NC" or higher in RDG 050, or a reading score of 20 or higher on the ACT, or 80 or higher on the COMPASS test, or 40 or higher on the ASSET test.
3-3-0
HIT-191 Medical Terminology

This course provides an introduction to the basic word structure in medical terminology with an emphasis on the word roots, prefixes and suffixes. A body systems approach forms the basis for class discussion. Spelling, pronunciation, definitions, medical abbreviations, pharmacology, laboratory and diagnostic values are highlighted. Hands-on learning activities are provided to reinforce lecture and emphasize applications of medical terminology in the health record.

 
3-3-0
BCS-120 Human Anatomy and Physiology

This course will consist of a survey of the structures and function of the human body. Students will study both the anatomy and physiology of the human body.

 
6-5-2
CIS-101 Personal Computer Applications

This is a “hands-on” class learning to use the most common microcomputer software programs and information resource facilities. This course provides a look at the structure and components of microcomputers, their operating systems and an introduction to various applications with emphasis on word processing, database management, spreadsheet applications, presentation software and Internet usage.

 Prerequisite: Keyboarding skill of 25 WPM or BUS 101 recommended.
3-3-0
Semester II Cr Hrs
HIT-120 Medical Coding I

This course introduces the theory, structure, and organization of the ICD-9-CM coding system. The principles, guidelines, and conventions utilized to accurately assign codes to diagnoses and procedures with ICD-9-CM are examined in detail. The role of ICD-9-CM codes in billing and reimbursement will be included. Laboratory will include hands-on activities using the ICD-9-CM manual and Web-based assignments, enabling the student to develop the skills needed to become an effective coder.

 Prerequisite: HIT 110, HIT 191, BCS 120 and CIS 101.
4-3-1
BCS-210 Pathophysiology

This is a survey course that studies the changes in normal anatomy and physiology of the human body. Disease processes are studied and the disruption of homeostasis is emphasized. Also included is the correlation between the pathology of the disease process and clinical signs and symptoms of the disease.

 Prerequisite: Grade of “C” or better in BCS 120, BCS 146 or BCS 150.
3-3-0
ENG-101 Composition I

English 101 introduces students to college-level writing and thinking through personal narrative, analytical, and research-supported writing. The processes of critical thinking, composing, revising, and editing are emphasized.  Students will learn basic research skills and documentation techniques.

 Prerequisite: Grade of NC or better in ENG 050 or satisfactory score on English placement assessment.
3-3-0

Mathematics Elective (MTH 105 or higher) - 3 hours

Social Science Elective - 3 hours

Total Semester Hours: 16
Semester III Cr Hrs
HIT-220 Medical Coding II

This course emphasizes advanced theory in coding with the focus on the development of skills needed for assignment of valid diagnostic and procedure codes using ICD-9-CM. Emphasis will be placed on quality of specific coding, sequencing of codes, coding compliance, and DRG reimbursement methodology. Laboratory will include hands-on activities using the ICD-9-CM manual, encoder and grouper software, and Web-based assignments enabling the student to develop the skills needed to become an effective coder.

 Prerequisites: HIT 120 and BCS 210.
4-3-1
HIT-230 Medical Coding III

This course introduces the theory, structure, and organization of the CPT and HCPCS Level II coding systems. The application of coding principles used to accurately assign CPT and HCPCS Level II codes to health records forms the basis of class discussion. The role of CPT and HCPCS Level II in billing and reimbursement will be included, as well as the processing cycle of health insurance claims. Health insurance terminology and reimbursement methodologies for technical and professional services will be included. Laboratory will include hands-on activities using sample health records, the CPT manual, and a Web-based HCPCS Level II code listing. Encoders and additional Web-based coding assignments will enable the student to develop the skills needed to become an effective coder.

 Prerequisites: HIT 120 and BCS 210.
4-3-1
Semester IV Cr Hrs
Semester V Cr Hrs
Semester VI Cr Hrs