Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Online Medical Billing and Coding - Scitexas.edu
Request More Info
Your safety and education are priorities for SCI. Until further notice, we’re offering our classes in a hybrid/online teaching environment.
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden

By submitting this form, I agree that Southern Careers Institute may contact me via email, text message or telephone, including the use of autodialers, regarding its programs and offers. Standard text and/or usage rates may apply.

How to Prepare for a Medical Billing and Coding Certification

To work in Texas as a medical coder requires that you hold a medical billing and coding certification, but passing the certification exam is no easy task — unless you prepare properly. To ensure that you pass the first time, utilize these following test prep essentials.  

1. Learn the Main Concepts

To start, you need to understand exactly what is covered by the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam. You will be expected to demonstrate your ability to:

  • Locate documentation in patient records for coding and billing use.
  • Use the correct codes for diagnoses and treatments.
  • Submit claims according to payer policies and procedures.
  • Advise providers on the best documentation practices for optimal reimbursement.

To do all this, you must have a good knowledge of ICD 9, ICD 10, CPT, medical terminology, medical law and ethics, diseases of the body, anatomy, electronic health records, HIPAA, and charting.  

2. Classes

Taking a course from an accredited school is your best option for classes. You will feel assured that you are receiving a quality education from experienced professor and that all your training is either in preparation for the medical billing and coding certification or for a job after graduation. Programs are available both on campus and online — choose whatever is best for your lifestyle and fits around your other commitments. An added benefit to enrolling in classes is that you will learn skills not tested by the CBCS but which are still essential for employment. These include:

  • MS Word
  • Customer service
  • Professionalism
  • Communication
  • 10 Key

Classes also give you the chance to prepare for additional certifications, such as Electronic Health Records Specialist (EHRS), Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), and Microsoft Office Specialist: Word.  

3. Study Materials

In addition to classes and homework, you should study in your own time to ensure eliminate any gaps in your knowledge. You can purchase CBCS study guides (available both printed and for online access), practice tests, and prep packages from ATI Allied Health. Other study options include free flashcards and sample tests.   When deciding where to study, you need to take into account more than just what program will best prepare you for the CBCS exam. Top schools provide a combination of lectures and hands-on training and may even offer students the chance to participate in externships for real-world experience. In a competitive field like medical coding, it is essential that you possess skills and knowledge that allow you to stand out from other job candidates.

Want to learn more about how National Certifications might help you in today’s job market?

What SCI Students Are Saying

"Just finished school for welding. Had the best experience with Southern Careers Institute, and had a lot of fun with my buddies. Already working at SpaceX. SCI is the place to be guys! Don't wait any longer, sign up!”

Testimonal

Enrique H.
Welding

"I recently achieved my dream of becoming a CDL driver, passing my CDL exams at our local DMV in Edinburg. Mr. Gonzalez was such a great instructor, even though it was raining I passed with flying colors!”

Testimonal

Juan L.
Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator

“I made a complete career change when I started my training at Southern Careers Institute. I needed a stable career to continue providing for my growing family. SCI provided me with the medical terminology and know how that I needed to understand and acquire a career in the medical field. SCI taught me that it doesn’t matter where you are in life right now; you always have room to advance and learn.”

Testimonal

Denise S.
Medical Assistant

“I am extremely grateful for the assistance I received from SCI’s Career Services team. I enjoy where I work and what I do. SCI has helped me succeed in life by getting me the necessary education and by making me a stronger and more confident person.”

Testimonal

Raquel S.

“Once I graduated from SCI, I had a sense of accomplishment that helped me through the job search process. SCI provided me with the opportunity to brush up on my skills, extend my accounting knowledge, and they boosted my self-confidence. I went to work two days after my last day of school.”

Testimonal

Annette D.
Business Accounting

“When my youngest child graduated from high school, I told my husband that it was my time. I went back to school to change careers after spending 37 years in the business field. At SCI, the instructors are professional, and they care about what they are teaching you, as well as expect you to give 100% in return. I had problems understanding how to draw in syringes and give injections. I requested extra help from a knowledgeable instructor, and I was able to receive one-on-one training. Today, I draw injections for approximately 100 patients each week. I am very confident in what I’ve learned. SCI has given me the chance to do what I always wanted to do. Thank you for my education. I am doing wonderful.”

Testimonal

Bonnie M
Medical Assistant

“I am now a certified Lab Tech. SCI helped me get an externship, and I came out with a job. After my little sister had cancer, I knew I wanted a career in the medical field that allowed me to help others. I am happy about what I do.”

Testimonal

Sidney B
Medical Assistant

“The best place ever!! Ms.Tonia rocks she is the best teacher… I love going to school my time there is amazing.”

Testimonal

Andrea Garcia

“Southern Careers went beyond my expectations. Very impressed. The assistance I got from Career Services is truly amazing. They really went out of their way to get me placed. They really care and I am grateful to all of them.”

Testimonal

Olga C.

“Southern Careers Institute totally surpassed my expectations. Once I finished school, the Career Services team helped me find a job. I would tell anyone thinking about starting career training that you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain. I wish I would have started my training sooner.”

Testimonal

Valerie D.

Speak with an
Admissions Advisor

Call 1.833.SCI.TEXAS

Our mission is to be a leading talent producer by delivering employer-tailored training.

Contact Us Today