Medical Billing & Coding Program

Although their work ties closely together, they’re separate roles. Medical coding turns healthcare information and patient data into industry-recognized codes, while medical billing turns those codes into billing statements and claims that can be sent to insurance companies. Medical billers also follow up on denied claims, collect missing payment information, answer questions patients have about their bills, and more.

For a more in-depth answer to this question, check out our previous post What Is a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist.

Medical Billing and Coding training programs can vary in length from one school to the next. At STVT, you can complete our program and prepare for billing and coding certification exams* in about 15 months. Although you don’t need professional certification to be a medical biller and coder in Texas, earning it after graduation could help you stand out in the local job market.

*STVT does not guarantee third-party certification. Certification requirements for taking and passing certification examinations are not controlled by STVT but by outside agencies and are subject to change by the agencies without notice to STVT. Therefore, STVT cannot guarantee that graduates will be eligible to take certification examinations, regardless of their eligibility status upon enrollment.

Medical billing and coding can be challenging, but rewarding. Medical coders sift through medical records and physician’s notes to make sure the diagnoses, procedures, and treatments are transcribed into the appropriate codes. Even the slightest mistake in the coding process could lead to denied claims, so medical coders should have a keen eye for details.

If medical coding is like a scavenger hunt, then medical billing is more like solving a puzzle. Medical billers review different pieces of information – like codes, insurance details, and patient records – and compile them into a claim so that healthcare providers can be paid for their services. Any errors or inconsistencies on the final claim can also lead to denials and delayed payments.

They can find work* in specialty practices, health insurance offices, hospitals, nursing homes, and more.

No, we don’t have prerequisites you need to complete before applying to our Medical Billing and Coding program. For more information on our admissions requirements, check out our Admissions page.