Q. How can I become a Medical Coder?
A. Becoming a Medical Coder typically requires a HS diploma or equivalent and formal training through an
accredited institution can also be helpful. After completing a recognized program, the next step is to
sit for and pass an industry certification exam. Graduates of USCI’s Coding Program are eligible to sit
for the Certified Professional Coder Apprentice (CPC-A)
with the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Back to top
Q. What does a Medical Coder do?
A. Medical Coders translate patient diagnoses, procedures and visits into medical codes using ICD-10 CM
and CPT® code books. There is a medical code for everything from a common cold to a broken arm and
beyond. You will assign these codes and help connect doctors, patients, hospitals and insurance
companies.
Back to top
Q. Do I need to get Certified as a Medical Coding Specialist?
A. Upon graduation from our program, you will receive your U.S. Career Institute Certificate of
Completion attesting to your accomplishment. U.S. Career Institute’s Medical Coding program will prepare
you to take a Certification exam of your choosing. You are not required to take a certification exam,
however taking this additional step will help you market yourself to potential employers and validate
your knowledge in Medical Coding. USCI recommends taking the CPC-A® exam through the American Academy of
Professional Coders (AAPC).
Your CPC-A exam fees are included in your tuition-up to a $325 value†.
Back to top
Q. What is the growth potential of a Medical Coder?
A. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Coding jobs are expected to increase 9% by
2030.*
Back to top
Q. What is the salary of a Medical Coding?
A. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Medical Coding Specialists earn up to $45,240 a
year.*
Back to top
Q. How much does a Medical Coding Course cost?
A. Tuition for this program is $1,239 total when you pay in full. Payment plans are also
available.
Back to top
Q. Is this Medical Coding Program accredited?
A. U.S. Career Institute is Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. The Distance
Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized
accrediting agency.
Back to top
Q. Where Can I Work as a Medical Coder?
A. Medical Coders work for doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals,. Once you graduate, our graduate
support representatives can give you some tips and tricks to use during your job search to help you find
the best fit for you.
Back to top
Q. What skills will I learn in this Medical Coding program?
A. Skills covered in the Medical Coding Specialist Program include How the human body works…Master
anatomy and physiology, How to speak the language…Explore medical terminology and pronunciations, How
coding impacts healthcare…Learn how medical procedures and diagnoses are coded, How to work like a
professional. Discover how coders use coding software and the internet to boost their productivity and
earnings.
Back to top
Q. As a Medical Coder, can I work from home?
A. U.S. Career Institute cannot guarantee employment. Upon receipt of your certificate of completion you
will have access to our Graduate Support team including our Career Coach Program at no additional cost.
U.S. Career Institute will work closely with you during your job search to assist you with the process
of marketing yourself to find employment including how to build your resume, cover letter, how to locate
potential job opportunities, marketing and networking.
We have found that medical coding employers prefer that you have at least one year of in-office
experience before they will offer the opportunity to work from home. If your goal is to work from home,
we recommend Medical Coding & Billing.
Back to top
