Purpose: The curriculum is designed for persons who seek entry-level employment as clinical data coding specialists in health care organizations by providing them with knowledge in anatomy and medical terminology, skill development in ICD-9-CM and CPT coding classification systems, database management, and clinical data abstracting processes, prospective payment systems and reimbursement strategies. Clinical data coding specialists are in demand across the spectrum of health care organizations including hospitals, physician offices, insurance companies, managed care organizations, contracting groups, and accounting firms. Graduates of the certificate program are eligible to take one of two national certifying examinations administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) to become a Certified Coding Associate (CCA), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Office setting (CCS-P).
Admission Requirements:
Students must:
- Comply with all General Admission Requirements for Allied Health Programs.
- Provide a high school diploma with one unit each of high school level Science (preferably Biology or Chemistry).
- Earn a score of 81 or higher on the reading section of the English placement test, a score of 85 or higher on the writing section of the English placement test.
- Provide evidence of good physical and mental health by submitting a physical exam form and CPR certification. Both must be completed before the start of clinical experience.
The curriculum includes one coordinated practice course. Students are expected to complete the courses in the sequence outlined below.
All first-time students must take a one-credit Student Development (SDV) course prior to enrolling in their 16th credit at NOVA.
1 Students must complete NAS 150 with a “C” or higher.