Medical Coder Proficiency Levels

Medical coders are responsible for coding medical procedures and treatments. Also known as code specialists and health information coders, they are employed in medical settings such as physician offices or hospitals.

Certification

• Certification in medical coding is the minimum non-degree requirement necessary to obtain a job in medical coding. Certification takes between nine months and a year to complete. To receive certification, students must meet the standards set by the American Health Information Management Association or the American Academy of Professional Coders.

Higher Education

• Bachelor's degrees and associate degrees are for students wanting to advance their careers into the management field. At the degree level, students majoring in health information management or health care administration are able to work in the medical coding and billing field. These types of degrees take two to four years to complete.

Courses

• Schools require students to become familiar with basic medical care and procedures in addition to the medical codes. Basic courses include health data standards, Internet technology, biology, and data security. Herzing University and Westwood College are two online schools which offer training at different levels. Employers often look for on-the-job training along with classroom training.