Everything You Need To Know About A Medical Coding Career

Download our free 14-page comprehensive guide!

Do you want a career where you can utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the healthcare industry? Medical coding may be an excellent career path for you! In our free 14-page guide, you will learn about East Ohio College’s online Medical Coding program, the industry landscape, career outlook, valuable certification*, frequently asked questions, and more!

Don’t miss out on this valuable resource! Download your free guide today and take the first step toward a rewarding career in medical coding.

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023.  See catalog for details.

About East Ohio College

East Ohio College, formerly Ohio Valley College of Technology, has been a trusted educator in Northeastern Ohio since its establishment in 1886 in East Liverpool, Ohio.  The college offers educational programs in various fields, including nursing, allied healthcare, and professional services. The college is committed to providing students with a comprehensive educational experience that prepares them for successful careers.

In response to the evolution of online education, East Ohio College took a significant step forward in 2022 with the launch of East Ohio Online, an innovative platform offering a range of healthcare and professional programs. This online initiative has widened access to education across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, catering to the needs of individuals balancing work, family, and academic pursuits. 

At the heart of East Ohio College’s mission is a hands-on educational approach delivered through personalized guidance and instruction by faculty members with real-world experience. The institution prides itself on each staff and faculty member upholding its core values: Work Ethic, Exemplary, Caring, Accountability, Relationships, and Excellence (WE CARE). By adhering to these core values, East Ohio College fulfills its purpose of empowering change by creating opportunity.

What You’ll Learn

• East Ohio College Licensing & Accreditation
• What Is Medical Coding?
• The East Ohio College Academic Process
• Earning Your Specialized Occupational Medical Coding Associate Degree
• The American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC)
• Medical Coding Career Outlook
• Benefits of East Ohio College
• Frequently Asked Questions

East Ohio College Accreditation & Licensing

East Ohio College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) to award associate degrees and diplomas. ABHES is a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

East Ohio College is approved, and the programs are authorized by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, – Registration Number 1555B.

East Ohio College offers some programs that are approved by the State Approving Agency for students to use veterans’ benefits.

What Is Medical Coding?

Medical coders are essential to the healthcare team. They work behind the scenes to ensure accurate communication between patients, healthcare providers, and insurance companies. According to the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC), medical coders translate patient visit documentation into standardized codes, identifying diagnoses, medical procedures, services, supplies, and more. Medical coders can accurately organize interactions between patients and providers using standardized codes, including CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II classification systems. This ensures that interactions between patients and providers are accurately documented and that insurance companies can provide payment to providers. 

Because of the vast range of potential medical scenarios, medical coders must have an extensive knowledge of coding systems and pay close attention to detail. Medical coding requires precision and accuracy to ensure that medical insurance claims are processed correctly; any inaccuracies in code entry could lead to potential issues in billing and payment. Furthermore, medical coders must possess extensive knowledge of codes and best practices, be self-disciplined, and take pride in their work. East Ohio College’s online medical coding training program provides students with beginner and intermediate knowledge of coding classification systems. Additionally, the program also equips students with the necessary skills to manage electronic healthcare records, billing, and insurance claims.

East Ohio College Academic Process

East Ohio College has a long history of preparing students for healthcare and professional services careers. The institution has developed a six-step academic process to guide students through their college journey: Plan, Equip, Learn, Enhance, Apply, and Succeed.

Step One: Plan

A potential student’s first point of contact at East Ohio College is their admissions team member, who guides them through the admission and application process. The admissions team will provide detailed information about EOC, their program of choice, and what to expect as a student. The admissions team works closely with the student during the admissions process and into their education to create an individualized plan to help them meet their academic, career, and financial goals. 

Step Two: Equip

After meeting with the admissions team and determining that East Ohio College is the right fit, students will be connected with a financial aid team member to discuss their plan for financing their education. The EOC financial aid team will provide students with information on grants**, student loans, financial aid^, and more. 

Step Three: Learn

Once the admissions and financial aid processes have been completed, the student’s admissions team member will guide them through enrollment and registration for New Student Orientation (NSO). During the NSO course, students will continue learning about East Ohio College’s academic process, the Medical Coding program expectations, and the resources available as EOC Online students. Upon completing the orientation course, students will be prepared to begin classes directly related to the medical coding training program. 

Step Four: Enhance

Once students reach this point in their education, they will have fulfilled the learning requirements of the medical coding training program. As an added benefit of attending EOC, the institution will pay for the cost of two attempts to sit for an American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) certification* exam. When students earn an industry certification, it signifies that they have met national standards for comprehension and skill level in the medical coding field. 

Step Five: Apply

Then, completing an externship experience that the East Ohio College career management department helps you arrange allows students to put their skills into practice in a real-world setting while developing relationships with regional employers.

Step Six: Succeed

Once students have completed the previous steps, they will be conferred with their associate degree and ready to begin their careers as medical coders.

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023. See catalog for details.
^For those who qualify
**For those who qualify. See catalog for detailed eligibility requirements.

Earning Your Associate of Applied Business in Occupational Medical Coding

East Ohio College’s Medical Coding program offers comprehensive training, allowing students to gain skills in various coding-related tasks in two years or less. Through our direct admission approach, students can begin taking courses focused on medical coding immediately upon acceptance to the program. 

Our comprehensive medical coding training program includes both fundamental and advanced courses. Students will learn skills such as CPT and ICD-10-CM coding, electronic health records management, insurance billing and coding, medical terminology, and more. For a complete list of courses in the Medical Coding program, see page 8 of our downloadable guide!

Graduates of our online medical coding training program will earn an associate degree upon completion and be able to sit for the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder-Apprentice (CPC-A) certification* exam. Exam preparation is incorporated into the East Ohio Online curriculum. As an added benefit of the program, the institution pays for the cost of two attempts to sit for the exam. 

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/ Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023. See catalog for details.

The American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC)

The medical coding profession requires great attention to detail and continuous learning. As a medical coder, you must be dedicated to continuing your education after graduation. As an additional benefit of the East Ohio Online medical coding program, the college will pay for the cost of two attempts to sit for the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder-Apprentice (CPC-A) certification* exam. 

The AAPC was established in 1988 and is currently the largest worldwide organization for training and credentialing in medical coding, billing, auditing, and similar fields. Earning an AAPC certification holds significant value in the industry, proving to potential employers that you have met standardized competency and skill requirements. 

Upon passing the certification exam, graduates will earn the CPC-A credential. Because the medical coding field requires continuous learning, the “-A” will remain attached to the credential until further requirements, including experience and education, are completed through the AAPC. To maintain your medical coding credentials, you must complete ongoing education units and maintain an active AAPC membership. 

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/ Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023. See catalog for details

Medical Coding Career Outlook

The East Ohio College medical coding training program prepares students to become well-rounded and competent medical coders. Medical coders are essential to the smooth function of a healthcare facility, making the industry ripe with opportunities. Facilities in which a medical coder may work include hospitals, private practices, insurance companies, law firms, government agencies, and more. 

The demand for qualified medical coders is increasing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national need for medical coders and medical records specialists is expected to grow 8% from 2022 to 2032. While this is a national average, employment demands vary by state or region. 

As medical coders expand their knowledge and gain industry experience, their opportunities continue to grow. While beginner medical coders are often required to work in an office setting, experienced coders could have the potential for remote positions. This added flexibility is a benefit of becoming an advanced coder and can be helpful in achieving a work-life balance. According to an AAPC survey, 25% of medical coders work remotely.

Another career path available to experienced medical coders is the education sector. Medical coders who complete specific AAPC licensures and requirements can become instructors to train the next generation of medical coding professionals.

Can you see yourself becoming a medical coder? Get started on the path to a fulfilling career with East Ohio College’s online medical coding courses– request information to contact an admissions team member today. 

Benefits of East Ohio College

East Ohio College offers a unique educational approach. Students can complete medical coding training without ever entering the classroom. With online lectures, virtual simulations, and personalized instructor interaction, students will gain a robust education and be prepared to enter the workforce in two years or less. EOC recognizes that students live busy lives and must balance family, work, and college. Therefore, the college prioritizes the student experience through extensive support. 

A key advantage of East Ohio College, as opposed to a traditional four-year university, is its accelerated approach, meaning students save valuable time and money taking classes related to their field of study. Upon acceptance into the EOC Online Medical Coding program, students begin taking medical coding classes and preparing for their futures immediately. East Ohio College’s curriculum is designed in 6-week increments, which covers more material in less time. This allows students to complete their education at an accelerated pace. 

Preparation for the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) certification* exams is incorporated directly into the medical coding training program curriculum. Students receive comprehensive instruction and guidance from experienced instructors who help them develop a strong foundation in medical coding. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the AAPC certification exams and start their careers. As an added benefit of the program, East Ohio College covers the cost of two attempts to sit for the exam. 

Student support is at the forefront of East Ohio College’s mission. EOC students and graduates can benefit from our support resources throughout their time in school and beyond. Students and alums have access to the career services department, whose services cover a wide range of support, including externship preparation, tutoring, resume assistance, interview preparation, job placement, networking, and more. EOC Alumni have continued access to career services at no additional cost, including career guidance and industry refresher courses^.

East Ohio College knows the value of education and is dedicated to providing exceptional support and resources from initial contact to after graduation. Start your journey today by requesting information!

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023. See catalog for details.
^Career Management Services are subject to specific conditions and requirements and continued campus operations. Please see the campus catalog for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How to get a medical coding certification?
A: Preparation for the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder-Apprentice certification* is incorporated into the East Ohio College medical coding curriculum. As an added benefit, the institution will cover the cost of two attempts to sit for the exam. 

Q: Where do medical coders work?
A: The skillset medical coders possess make them versatile healthcare team members in hospitals, medical centers, government agencies, insurance companies, and more.

Q: What do medical coders do?
A:  Medical coders streamline communication between patients, providers, and insurance companies using a standardized labeling system called codes.

Q: How long is schooling for medical coding?
A: The length of schooling to become a medical coder depends on the program type a student chooses. East Ohio College’s associate degree program can be completed in only 18 months. According to HealthJob, the average associate degree in medical coding can take up to two years or more to complete.

Do you still have specific questions about medical coding? Ask an East Ohio College admissions team member by Requesting Information!  

*Certification is contingent on passing the corresponding certification exam. Required/Included in Tuition/Fees. The Institution does not have a reportable recent pass rate (2022-2023 academic year) for the Certified Professional Coders exam because this is a new program with no graduates prior to July 1, 2023. See catalog for details.