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Medical Billing and Coding Glossary

Learn about medical billing and coding terms and certifications.

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Medical Billing and Coding Terms & Definitions

medical coding

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.

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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.

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Spotlight Schools

Colorado Technical University Online

At Colorado Technical University, we understand the importance of your goals to pursue an industry-current, college degree. We offer access to skilled professors, small class size and flexible learning programs online and on campus.


University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix makes quality higher education highly accessible for working students. Whether you're seeking an associate's, bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, we can help you reach your goal--and sooner than you may think.


Everest College


Apollo College

Apollo College provides practical, real-world education. Our faculty are experienced professionals, who share the knowledge and expertise they've gained through years of practice in the medical field.


Sanford-Brown Institute

At Sanford-Brown Institute, we focus your study into a short-term program enabling you the opportunity to customize your skills successfully to the specific needs of a health care setting.


Sanford-Brown College

At Sanford-Brown Institute, we focus your study into a short-term program enabling you the opportunity to customize your skills successfully to the specific needs of a health care setting.