Medical Billing and Coding Terms & Definitions The medical billing and coding profession requires you to learn a complex system of codes in order to communicate between physicians and insurance companies. In the mean time, here are a few codes and terms we can help you decipher: AAPC - American Academy of Professional Coders. AHIMA - American Health Information Management Association. ICD-9-CM - International Classification of Diseases. The official system of assigning codes to diagnoses and procedures associated with hospital utilization in the United States.  Types of Medical Billing and Coding Certification There are many types of medical billing and coding certifications. Your work environment and level of experience may dictate which kind of certification is right for you. Consult our guide to medical billing and coding certifications below: CCA - Certified Coding Associate for new coders. Offered by AHIMA. CCS - Certified Coding Specialist for experienced coders working in a hospital setting. Offered by AHIMA. CCS-P - Certified Coding Specialist for experienced coders working in a physician-based setting. Offered by AHIMA. CPC - Certified Professional Coder for coders with at least two years of experience working in a physician-based setting. Offered by AAPC. CPC-H - Certified Professional Coder for coders with at least two years of experience in a hospital setting. Offered by AAPC. CPC-P - Certified Professional Coder-Payer for experienced coders who demonstrate skills to adjudicate provider claims effectively. Offered by AAPC.  |