Medical Coding and Billing

The Associate in Applied Science in Health Information Technology is designed to prepare candidates in the professional knowledge and skills which will qualify them for employment in a healthcare facility. Graduates of the AAS in Health Information Technology should demonstrate a/an:

• Proficiency in skills such as medical terminology, communication, and professionalism
• Working knowledge of the national diagnosis and procedural coding systems (ICD and CPT-HCPC coding)
• Comprehension of the Major Diagnostic Categories (MCDs)
• Ability to analyze the Uniform Billing (UB-92) claim form
• Competence to define and assign HCPCS level 11 codes
• Working knowledge to abstract and code from medical record case studies
• Knowledge of the treatment of diseases, including pharmacological, complementary and alternative therapies
• Knowledge of Medical Practice Settings and Specialties, as well as the differences in Traditional and Managed Care.

Knowledge and understanding of the legal and ethical responsibilities of working in a Medical facility, including HIPAA mandates, the rules for maintaining privacy of medical records and protection of health information, and the types of consents and disclosures that are required.

Research published on January 2004 by the Kentucky Department for Employment Services Research and Statistics Branch entitled: Northern Kentucky Area Occupational Outlook to 2010 provides employment projections for the Northern Kentucky/Beckfield College region.

Health Information Technology (Occupation Code 29-2071) is identified in the 'Top 45 Fast-Growing Northern KY Area Occupations' with an expected increase in employment of 69.6% (reference page 7 of the Occupational Outlook report). Page 18 of the report identifies the education/training required for this position is an Associate Degree.

With a high industry demand for appropriately trained personnel, the Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology aims to provide graduates with the best-suited health information management skills.