www.msugf.edu | MSU-Great Falls College of Technology : Health Information Technology

Health Information Technology:
HIC Certificates

The Health Information Medical Coding Specialist Certificate program at MSU–Great Falls College of Technology is delivered completely online. This is not a self-paced program; institution deadlines are followed.

The Montana State University – Great Falls College of Technology coding program is approved by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) through 2014. The CCA distinguishes coders by exhibiting commitment and demonstrating coding competencies across all settings, including both hospitals and physician practices. Based upon job analysis standards and state-of-the-art test construction, the CCA is creating a larger pool of qualified coders ready to meet potential employers' needs. The CCA designation has been a nationally accepted standard of achievement in the health information management field since 2002. More than 8,000 people have attained the certification since inception. The CCA is the only HIM credential worldwide currently accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

Entry-level coders analyze health records and assign the appropriate code to each diagnosis and procedure according to national and international guidelines. They perform research and rely on their knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and disease processes to determine the correct codes and sequences.

Coders then use a software program to assign the patient to one of several hundred “diagnosis-related groups,” or DRG’s or APC’s. Those who specialize in coding are called health information coders, medical record coders, coder/ abstractors, or coding specialists. In addition to the DRG system, coders use other coding systems known as encoders.

Students that complete the medical coding specialist certificate can easily transfer into the Health Information Technology two-year degree program at MSU College of Technology.

The completion of the medical coding specialist certificate will assist the student in qualifying for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential national exam; sponsored by AHIMA.

Students that achieve the medical coding specialist certificate, can expect to obtain jobs in inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, physician offices, or insurance companies as entry-level coders (see the graphic below).

Work Settings AHIMA Profile

According to the most recent AHIMA job profile (2000), the majority of coders working out in the profession (national level) with a certificate and/or a two-year degree, can expect to make between $20,000 and $39,000 annually (see the display below).

Coding Profile AHIMA

For more information on the field of medical coding, click on the associations below:

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