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Medical Billing and Coding Essentials

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Barbara Westrick

4.7

Based on 596 ratings

, see reviews

Barbara Westrick

Insurance and Billing, and Coding Essentials is a comprehensive course with insight and focus on the role of the Insurance Billing Specialist. The course provides foundational knowledge required of an administrative allied healthcare professional. Emphasis is placed on the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology.

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Insurance and Billing, and Coding Essentials is a comprehensive course with insight and focus on the role of the Insurance Billing Specialist. The course provides foundational knowledge required of an administrative allied healthcare professional. Emphasis is placed on the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology.

In this course, students are exposed to a variety of eLearning elements that allow hands-on interaction with the screen for an engaging education. In addition to video-based instruction that provides foundational knowledge, a variety of other learning methods are utilized for engagement, entertainment, and inspiration throughout training. These may include interactive skill activities, game-based learning, and an immersive environment for critical thinking skills.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1

Module 2

Module 3

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches basic insurance terminology, which is foundational to work in healthcare

Develops understanding of the revenue cycle, which is a core aspect of medical administration

Designed for learners with little background in the field

Emphasizes foundational knowledge for an administrative allied healthcare professional

Provides a combination of instructional methods, including interactive exercises and immersive simulations, enhancing engagement and retention

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Reviews summary

Foundational medical billing and coding

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in medical billing and coding essentials, particularly for those new to the field. Many found the interactive elements and video-based instruction helpful for engagement. While it covers basic insurance terminology and the revenue cycle effectively, some students noted that it offers an introductory overview rather than in-depth preparation for certification exams, potentially requiring supplemental study. Overall, it's considered a strong starting point for a career as an administrative allied healthcare professional.

Generally well-paced, but some parts feel rushed.

"The pacing was mostly good, though some complex topics felt a little <span class="warning">rushed towards the end of modules."

"I found the course flowed well, allowing me to build my understanding progressively without feeling overwhelmed or bored."

"A few sections could use <span class="warning">more detailed explanations to help solidify understanding before moving on."

Covers essentials, but may lack advanced detail.

"While excellent for beginners, I felt it was <span class="warning">more of an introduction and didn't delve deep enough for advanced certification preparation."

"This course is perfect for a <span class="neutral">general overview, but don't expect it to make you an expert without further self-study."

"I would recommend this for someone getting their feet wet, but it might <span class="warning">require additional resources for comprehensive exam readiness."

Interactive and video-based elements enhance learning.

"The <span class="positive">interactive skill activities and <span class="positive">game-based learning really made dry topics much more engaging."

"I particularly enjoyed the <span class="positive">video instruction; it was clear and kept me focused throughout the modules."

"The <span class="positive">immersive environment mentioned in the description truly helps with critical thinking skills, a big plus."

Establishes core concepts for new professionals.

"This course gave me a great <span class="positive">understanding of the basics in medical billing and coding. I feel ready for entry-level work."

"As someone completely new to this field, I found the material <span class="positive">easy to grasp and it provided a <span class="positive">solid starting point for my career aspirations."

"I appreciate how well this course <span class="positive">builds foundational knowledge on insurance and the revenue cycle."

Geared towards career entry in allied healthcare.

"As an aspiring administrative allied healthcare professional, this course provided <span class="positive">directly applicable knowledge."

"It's clear this course is designed for <span class="positive">career-focused individuals. The emphasis on the revenue cycle is spot on for billing."

"I feel much more confident pursuing roles in medical billing after completing this <span class="positive">career-oriented training."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Medical Billing and Coding Essentials with these activities:

Review basic medical terminology and anatomy

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Having a solid understanding of medical terminology and anatomy can enhance your comprehension of insurance and billing processes related to healthcare.

Browse courses on Medical Terminology

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Review your previous coursework or notes on medical terminology and anatomy
Use online resources or textbooks to fill in any knowledge gaps

Organize and review your course notes and materials

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Regularly reviewing your notes and materials can reinforce your understanding and improve retention.

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Gather all of your notes, assignments, and materials
Create a system for organizing your materials
Review your materials regularly

Review Medical Terminology & Anatomy

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This activity will help you brush up on your medical terminology and anatomy skills which are essential for working in healthcare.

Browse courses on Human Anatomy

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Review your notes from previous courses or textbooks on anatomy and medical terminology.
Take practice quizzes or exams to test your knowledge.
Look up any unfamiliar terms or concepts in a medical dictionary or online resource.

Nine other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all 12 activities

Connect with professionals in the insurance and billing industry

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Establishing connections with professionals can provide valuable insights, career guidance, and networking opportunities.

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Attend industry events or online webinars
Reach out to professionals through LinkedIn or email
Consider joining professional organizations or online forums

Form a study group with classmates

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Discussing the course material with peers can enhance your understanding and retention.

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Connect with other students in the course
Schedule regular virtual study sessions
Take turns presenting the material and leading discussions

Practice Insurance Billing Scenarios

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This activity will provide you with hands-on practice in applying insurance billing principles to real-world scenarios.

Show steps

Find online tutorials or simulations that offer practice exercises in insurance billing.
Work through the exercises and simulations, following the instructions carefully.
Refer back to your course materials or other resources if you encounter any difficulties.

Complete practice exercises in insurance and billing software

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Working with insurance and billing software can familiarize you with the practical applications of the concepts learned in the course.

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Sign up for a free trial or demo of insurance and billing software
Follow the tutorials or documentation to learn the software's features
Enter data and practice processing claims
Seek assistance from online forums or the software's support team if needed

Join a Study Group

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This activity will provide you with the opportunity to discuss course concepts with peers and learn from their perspectives.

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Form or join a study group with other students in your course.
Meet regularly to discuss course materials, work on assignments together, and quiz each other.
Share resources and tips with your group members.

Create a case study or simulation to demonstrate your understanding of insurance and billing processes

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Developing a case study or simulation can help you apply the concepts and procedures learned in the course to real-world scenarios.

Show steps

Identify a real-world insurance or billing scenario
Research and gather data on the scenario
Develop a case study or simulation that walks through the scenario
Consider creating a presentation or infographic to showcase your work

Coding and Billing Exercises

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This activity will help you develop your proficiency in medical coding and billing procedures.

Browse courses on Medical Coding

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Find practice exercises or workbooks that include coding and billing scenarios.
Complete the exercises and review your answers against the provided answer key.
Identify areas where you need additional practice and focus on those areas.

Volunteer at a clinic or hospital to gain practical exposure to insurance and billing procedures

Show steps

Volunteering in a healthcare setting can provide valuable hands-on experience and insights into the insurance and billing processes.

Show steps

Contact local clinics or hospitals to inquire about volunteer opportunities
Complete any required training or background checks
Assist staff with insurance and billing tasks under supervision
Observe and learn from experienced professionals

Volunteer at a Healthcare Provider's Office

Show steps

This activity will provide you with hands-on experience in a healthcare setting and expose you to real-world insurance billing practices.

Show steps

Contact local healthcare providers, such as clinics or hospitals, to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Complete any necessary training or orientation.
Assist with insurance billing tasks under the supervision of experienced staff.

Career center

Learners who complete Medical Billing and Coding Essentials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Medical Biller

Medical Billers prepare and submit insurance claims for healthcare providers. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that claims are accurate and complete. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which is essential for success as a Medical Biller. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Biller

Insurance Billing Specialist

Insurance Billing Specialists prepare and submit insurance claims for healthcare providers. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that claims are accurate and complete. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which is essential for success as an Insurance Billing Specialist. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Insurance Billing Specialist

Medical Claims Examiner

Medical Claims Examiners review and process insurance claims for healthcare providers. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that claims are accurate and complete. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which is essential for success as a Medical Claims Examiner. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Claims Examiner

Medical Coder

Medical Coders assign codes to medical procedures and diagnoses. This information is used by insurance companies to determine how much to reimburse healthcare providers. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which is essential for success as a Medical Coder. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Coder

Coding Specialist

Coding Specialists assign codes to medical procedures and diagnoses. This information is used by insurance companies to determine how much to reimburse healthcare providers. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which is essential for success as a Coding Specialist. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Coding Specialist

Health Information Technician

Health Information Technicians manage and maintain health information in electronic and paper formats. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that information is accurate, complete, and accessible. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Health Information Technicians succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Information Technician

Medical Records Technician

Medical Records Technicians are responsible for managing and maintaining medical records. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that records are accurate, complete, and accessible. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Medical Records Technicians succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Records Technician

Medical Transcriptionist

Medical Transcriptionists transcribe medical dictation into written reports. They use their knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems to ensure that reports are accurate and complete. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Medical Transcriptionists succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Transcriptionist

Medical Records Analyst

Medical Records Analysts review and analyze medical records to identify trends and patterns. They use this information to improve the quality of healthcare services. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Medical Records Analysts succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Records Analyst

Clinical Data Manager

Clinical Data Managers manage and analyze clinical data. They use this information to improve the quality of healthcare services. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Clinical Data Managers succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Data Manager

Medical Office Assistant

Medical Office Assistants perform a variety of administrative tasks in healthcare settings. They may schedule appointments, process insurance claims, and maintain patient records. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Medical Office Assistants succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Office Assistant

Health Unit Coordinator

Health Unit Coordinators provide administrative and clinical support to healthcare units. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and managing patient records. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Health Unit Coordinators succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Unit Coordinator

Patient Service Representative

Patient Service Representatives provide customer service to patients in healthcare settings. They may answer questions, schedule appointments, and process insurance claims. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Patient Service Representatives succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Patient Service Representative

Medical Secretary

Medical Secretaries provide administrative support to healthcare professionals. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and managing files. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Medical Secretaries succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Secretary

Administrative Assistant

Administrative Assistants provide administrative support to healthcare professionals. They may perform a variety of tasks, such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and managing files. This course provides a foundation in medical terminology and coding, which can help Administrative Assistants succeed in their roles. The course also covers the revenue cycle and basic insurance terminology, which are essential for understanding the financial aspects of healthcare.

See salaries and explore the career path for Administrative Assistant

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Medical Billing and Coding Essentials.

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CPB™ Study Guide

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This handbook comprehensive reference for medical billing and coding. It valuable resource for those in the field.

CPB™ Study Guide

CPB™ Study Guide

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Activity Pack for Medical Terminology Systems

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Serves as a comprehensive guide to medical terminology. It provides a strong foundation for understanding medical language and is highly recommended as a reference.

Activity Pack for Medical Terminology Systems

Activity Pack for Medical Terminology Systems

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Cover image

Save

This introductory book provides a solid foundation for medical billing and coding. It is easy to read and understand. It is especially useful as a reference.

Oscar's Ghost: The Battle for Oscar Wilde's Legacy

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HCPCS 2017 Level II Professional Edition

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This comprehensive textbook covers all aspects of medical insurance and billing. It valuable reference for those in the field.

2017 HCPCS Level II Professional Edition for the...

2017 HCPCS Level II Professional Edition

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Cover image

CPT Coding Essentials for Urology and Nephrology...

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Provides an overview of CPT coding. It is helpful for those who want to learn how to code for medical services.

CPT Coding Essentials for Urology and Nephrology...

CPT Coding Essentials for Urology and Nephrology...

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The Forever Prisoner

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Provides practical tips on managing a medical office efficiently. It can complement this course by shedding light on the day-to-day operations.

The Forever Prisoner: The Full and Searing Account...

The Forever Prisoner: The Full and Searing Account...

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Fundamentals Success

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Provides an introduction to pharmacology for healthcare professionals. It is beneficial for gaining a basic understanding of medications and their use.

Fundamentals Success: NCLEX®-Style Q&A Review

Fundamentals Success: NCLEX®-Style Q&A Review...

Fundamentals Success: A Q & A Review Applying...

Fundamentals Success: A Q&A Review Applying...

Fundamentals Success: A Course Review Applying...

Fundamentals Success: A Course Review Applying...

Fundamentals of Nursing Content Review Plus...

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Righting Health Policy

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Offers valuable insights into legal principles surrounding medical practice. It may be useful as additional reading for those interested in further exploring the relevant ethical and legal considerations.

Righting Health Policy: Bioethics, Political...

Righting Health Policy: Bioethics, Political...

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Off-Grid Water Supply

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Delves into operational aspects of healthcare organizations. It can provide advanced learners with additional insights into managing healthcare delivery.

Off-Grid Water Supply: Should It Be Mainstreamed?...

Off-Grid Water Supply: Should It Be Mainstreamed?...

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Rating

4.7

Effort

Approx. 7 hours

Level

Introductory

Via

Coursera

Institution

MedCerts

Instructor

Barbara Westrick

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша

This course belongs to a collection called Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals. It's comprised of three courses:

Medical Billing and Coding Essentials (viewing)
Professionalism in Allied Health
Medical Terminology and the Human Body Fundamentals

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Teaches basic insurance terminology, which is foundational to work in healthcare

Develops understanding of the revenue cycle, which is a core aspect of medical administration

Designed for learners with little background in the field

Emphasizes foundational knowledge for an administrative allied healthcare professional

Provides a combination of instructional methods, including interactive exercises and immersive simulations, enhancing engagement and retention

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