Certificate in Medical Coding

Academic Director: Ellen Karl, MBA, RHIA, CHDA, FAHIMA
CUNY School of Professional Studies
101 West 31^st Street, 7^th Floor
New York, NY 10001
Email Contact: medicalcoding@sps.cuny.edu 

The Program

The Certificate in Medical Coding is designed to prepare graduates for a career in the Healthcare Industry where there is increased demand for complete and accurate coded clinical data in all types of healthcare settings, public health, and medical research. Coded data serves as the primary information source for many health information assessment tools, as well as data required for an electronic health record. The coding of patient information using code sets such as the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) as well as Current Procedural Terminology. (CPT) is extensively reviewed. Coded data is then utilized to determine reimbursement by insurance companies and the government to healthcare facilities.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Certificate in Medical Coding will be able to:

1. Understand the clinical knowledge base through study of the structure and function of the healthy human body, pathophysiology, diagnostic and treatment modalities, and pharmacotherapy.
2. Understand coding and classification systems in order to assign valid diagnostic and/or procedure codes. This will include the validation of coded clinical information, and case mix/severity of illness data.
3. Understand the uses of coded data and health information in reimbursement and payment systems appropriate to all healthcare settings and managed care. This includes contemporary prospective payment systems and key health plans, charge master maintenance, and evaluation of fraudulent billing practices.
4. Describe the basic health data structure, content and standards; healthcare delivery systems; and information technology and systems.
5. Identify relevant legal and compliance issued faced by clinical coders in the workplace setting.
6. Code medical records in a hospital, physician’s office, clinic or other healthcare setting with directed projects common to a clinical coding specialist on the job.

Admission Criteria

To be considered for admission, an applicant must have a high school diploma and demonstrate basic proficiency in reading and writing in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the University. At current, proficiency in reading and writing may be demonstrated by meeting any of the following criteria:

• SAT I verbal score of 480 or higher or critical reading score of 480 or higher
• ACT English score of 20 or higher
• New York State English Regents score of 75 or higher
• A grade of C or higher in a college level English course

Applicants must also submit a personal statement.