Medical Coding Program
Hartnell College is dedicated to providing students with quality, job-relevant training in the medical coding profession. Our goal is to offer a training program and curriculum that continually provide "state-of-the-art" skill, knowledge, and medical coding expertise, while assisting healthcare providers in meeting their continuing need for proficient professional medical coders.
The new Hartnell College Comprehensive Medical Coding Certificate program is an 11-month intensive program geared towards preparing the student for a career in the health profession of coding and billing. Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to sit for the Certified Coding Associate State Examination, confident and prepared with a knowledge and skill base to pass the exam.
How much is tuition?
There are no tuition fees to students. Program tuition is being paid by a grant (RFA # 06-0336) funded and awarded by the California Community College Chancellor's Office, under the California Healthcare initiatives. There is only a $600 deposit required to cover textbooks. $300 of which will be refunded after completion of the program.
Why become a Medical Coder?
There is an increasing need for competent and highly qualified Medical Coders throughout the United States. This demand has provided an excellent job market for appropriately trained and competent individuals, while offering highly competitive wages and consistent employment.
What is a Certified Coding Associate?
A Certified Coding Associate is an entry level coder. The CCA position is a starting point for those entering the coding field and a means of expanding job opportunities and continuing education. A Certified Coding Associate has demonstrated competency in the field. Many employers prefer to hire credentialed coders because of their training and qualifications. Traditionally, a CCA receives a higher salary than those who are not certified. The CCA examination is sponsored by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Program Overview:
- This is a grant-funded pilot program sponsored by the California Community College Chancellor's Office and Hartnell College. All student tuition costs are paid by the grant.
- This intensive program will take a practical approach to medical coding training, and is designed to prepare graduates for work in one of many medical settings.
- The program is excellent for recent high school graduates, college students, those looking for a career change, or anyone interested in the medical coding or billing fields.
- The curriculum is written by professionals in the medical coding and billing field and classes are taught by credentialed professionals active in areas of medical coding and billing.
- Students will receive over 290 contact hours that include class and laboratory instruction.
- Graduates of the training program will receive a Certificate of Completion and eligibility to take the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) examination.
Program Schedules:
Classes meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6 – 9 p.m., and two Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Click below for calendars.
As of March 15, Program 2 will now be held Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 12 Noon - 3 p.m.
As of May 15, Program 3 will now be held Monday and Wednesday evenings, 6 - 9 p.m.
- Program 1 Schedule: April 3, 2007 – March 15, 2008
- Program 2 Schedule: June 5, 2007 – May 13, 2008
- Program 3 Schedule: August 6, 2007 – August 2, 2008
- Attain minimum required assessment test scores for English, reading, and math
- Participate in formal interview
- High school diploma or GED
- Keyboarding and assessment tests
- $600 deposit
- Strong English, reading, and communications skills
How do I apply for the Program?
As of June 18, 2007 we are no longer accepting applications into the Medical Coding Pilot Program. If you are interested in learning more about future programming please click on the "Contact Medical Coding Program" link and we will respond with up-to-date information.