Get the Skills to Be a Medical Office Professional

A pony-tailed young woman in pink hospital attire is recording information in a book — Get into a profession that makes a difference in people’s lives with Laurus College’s Medical Billing & Coding degree program

Online Medical Billing & Coding Training in 2 Years^*

Interested in a career in the medical field? Are you the type of person who enjoys helping others?

A career in Medical Billing and Coding may be just the right fit for you. In this career-focused program, students learn the skills to market themselves to future employers in the fast-paced fields of medical insurance billing, medical coding, and various medical front office responsibilities.

All the Things You’ll Learn

The standards for accuracy in health insurance claims processing are becoming more exacting at the same time that health insurance plan options are rapidly expanding. These changes, coupled with modifications in regulations affecting the health insurance industry, are a constant challenge to medical office personnel.

Among the courses taught in the Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree program are:

Medical Terminology
Health Insurance
Diagnosis Coding
Electronic Medical Billing
Medical Billing Processes
Medical Front Office
Health Care Facility
Medical Management Supervision
Human Resource Issues

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Here’s How You’ll Grow with Us

Upon completion of the Medical Billing and Coding Occupational Associate degree, students should be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of medical terminology and the importance of spelling
Identify both CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code and ICD-10 (Diagnostic Coding) guidelines, and how to look up codes
Show proficiency in filling out various forms with regard to billing such as CMS-1500 claim form, appeals letters, and denial letters
Read EOB’s, aging reports, and financial policies within the medical office
Identify different types of insurance plans, and insurance terminology
Understand HIPAA guidelines including HIPAA privacy and HIPAA security rule
Demonstrate the importance of time management skills, communication, scheduling, and teamwork

Is a Career as a Medical Office Professional Right for You? Find Out! Take the "Laurus College Medical Office Career Training Readiness Quiz"

This fun, online quiz takes 3 minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for. Get your Medical Office Career Readiness Score Now >>

Where You Could Be in a Couple Short Years

Grads with Medical Billing & Coding training may find employment in a wide range of interesting and rewarding positions, including

Medical Records & Health Information Technicians
Medical Receptionist & Information Clerk
Insurance Policy Processing Clerk
Medical Coding Specialist
Patient Services Coordinator
and more!

List of Potential Careers

With so many professional opportunities available to people with the right qualifications, Laurus can prepare you for a career that will take you to that next level in life.

The best way to see if Laurus College is the right fit for you is to see it for yourself. You can tour our facilities by coming in to any of our campus locations, or we’re happy to set up a virtual tour with you. Book a Tour Now or Get more info.

You’ve Already Got a Life and We Appreciate That

If you’re juggling work and a family, you’re busy. Our hybrid learning model gives you greater freedom and flexibility to learn on your own schedule.

That means you’re in control of your learning experience. All you have to do is take that first important step, because there’s a lot of demand for skilled medical billing and coding professionals. Training with Laurus for a career in medical billing and coding, with all our dedicated support from Day 1 till the day you land that dream job, is a great move.

Develop the ability to process health insurance claims by learning the many aspects of medical insurance, including plan options, carrier requirements, various regulations, extraction of relevant information from source documents, accurate claim form completion, and diagnosis and procedure coding.

If you’re ready to move up in life and create a brighter future with a fulfilling medical office career, now is the right time to be discovering Laurus College.

Through programs led by industry professionals, Laurus has helped motivated people get the skills, experience, and ongoing support to pursue successful careers.

Laurus Experience wheel showing 10 items that Laurus delivers

The Laurus Advantage

Practical, Career-Focused Training that prepares you for an in-demand career.

Supportive Learning Environment where instructors care about your success.

Flexible Scheduling Options that include both day and evening classes.

Laptop Included – Students attending classes in an Occupational Associate or Bachelor’s Degree program are given the opportunity to receive a laptop computer loaded with all of the software needed to complete their program.

Job Search Assistance through our Career Services Department, including resume & portfolio creation, interview preparation and live workshops.

Meet the Faculty

Rebecca Sandoval, Department Director (Medical Billing Department)

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Rebecca Sandoval
Department Director
Medical Billing Department
Teaching at Laurus since 2012
Rebecca has worked in the medical field for over 17 years. She started in the chart room and eventually moved into a position where she was in charge of obtaining authorizations. As Rebecca continued to learn more about insurance companies and coding guidelines, she was then trained for the billing position and soon realized that was the position for her; she loved it!
Rebecca has an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding and is also an MA. She truly enjoys being an instructor at Laurus, always striving to give students the knowledge that she has obtained through the years.
LinkedIn
Norma Walker, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

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Norma Walker
Instructor
Medical Billing Department
Teaching at Laurus since 2012
As a young mother, Norma always dreamed of doing extraordinary things with her life. She tried her hardest, no matter what “road bumps” or “hurdles” she faced, in order to achieve her dreams. Now, as an instructor, Norma encourages her students to do the same. Known for her friendliness and attention to detail, Norma takes pride in helping students overcome their own hurdles so that they can enter the healthcare field as confident and outgoing professionals.
Norma received her A.S. Degree in Medical Billing and Coding from Charter College, and has been teaching at Laurus College in Oxnard for over 2 years.
LinkedIn
Charla Gonzales-Sanchez, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

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Charla Gonzales-Sanchez
Instructor
Medical Billing Department
Teaching at Laurus since 2013
Charla has nearly 20 years in the Medical Industry in various areas of the Medical office; Administrative, Clinical and Billing & Coding. She is a professional in her industry and has been recognized for her continued efforts in her field. As a graduate with honors, she strives to bring that same level of accomplishment to all her students and their studies.
LinkedIn
Sheryl Munoz, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

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Sheryl Munoz
Instructor
Medical Billing Department
Teaching at Laurus since 2013
Sheryl has worked in the healthcare industry for over 18 years, starting in a large healthcare organization, and then moving to various medical offices of different specialty physicians over the years. She has both an AA and a BA degree in Healthcare Administration.
Sheryl’s knowledge of the healthcare industry from medical billing, claims processing, conducting training, and overseeing an entire medical office, along with keeping up-to-date in her area of expertise has enhanced her teaching at Laurus College. She enjoys using her skills to guide students from the time they start and even after they finish school so they can have a rewarding career in the healthcare industry.
Sheryl always tells her students “I have the upmost respect that you have taken the first step, even though you may have a busy schedule whether it be working, taking care of your children, or just life itself to attend class. This first step will be the best decision you have ever made and you will reap the rewards”.
LinkedIn
Patricia Lincoln, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

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Patricia Lincoln
Instructor
Medical Billing Department
Patricia is a CPC (Certified Professional Coder) with an extensive background in medical coding, billing, compliance, and related fields. She has taught coding, billing, and terminology courses academically, as well as trained and managed many coders professionally over the years. Patricia has also taught medical documentation seminars for groups of physicians in various cities across the U.S.
As one of a three-member team, Patricia developed the medical coding audit program and department for a large national medical coding and billing company. At various times throughout her career, Patricia has been responsible for interpreting federal guidelines; responding to coding challenges/questions; and for developing coder training as well as physician documentation training materials. Additionally, she has conducted countless medical coding audits for various physician-based and out-patient hospital clients and has worked as a consultant on health care and medical billing fraud whistleblower legal cases.
Of all the interesting and exciting things Patricia has done in her career, she says the most rewarding and enjoyable is being an instructor at Laurus College. Patricia admires and respects her students and colleagues, and is proud to work together with her students, as a team, helping them to achieve their educational goals in the medical coding and billing field.
Amy Hawkins, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

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Amy Hawkins
Instructor
Medical Billing Department
I have been in the medical field for over 20 years, holding several different positions throughout the medical field. After graduating with honors, I started out in medical records. I quickly worked my way up to the supervisor of the administrative front office. Not that long after that, I worked my way up to the Billing and Coding/ Business Office. I then worked my way into working in the Clinical Back Office. That’s when I learned how to schedule surgeries and I learned how to assist with surgeries. I have been teaching for 13 years in various medical programs, as well as the Lead Trainer, for new hire Medical Instructors and Curriculum Developer. I feel very fortunate, I get to teach what I have learned in the medical field.
It helps to feed my passion for helping people. My teaching philosophy is described in a quote:
When you teach what you love
and share what you know
you open eyes, minds, hearts and souls
To unexplored worlds.
Author Unknown
LinkedIn

Is a Rewarding Career as Medical Office Professional Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’d like to know more about the careers available to grads of our Medical Billing & Coding program and explore whether Laurus is right for you, fill out the formon this page to receive more information.

For immediate questions, call (805)-267-1690

* Program length when completed in normal time.

Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
CDM 101	Communications and Decision Making* This course examines decision making, strategic thinking, and communications for complex issues. Students will demonstrate the ability to recognize different approaches to developing written action plans for solving today’s issues in the modern age	5
CSC 100	Student Success Fundamentals This course serves as an introduction to the necessary skills needed to operate a computer and function in a general environment. Students learn basic terminology associated with general computer operation and navigation. Topics covered in this course may include basic text editing, internet use and navigation, proper file management, and general computer navigation. Students enhance their typing skills through various assignments and topics throughout the course. Other topics may include job search techniques and job etiquette, and on-the-job behavior with regard to computer operations.	5
ENG 101	Business Communications I* Students in this course explore written and oral communication as a skill to be mastered and applied. Instruction covers communication strategies and conventions of written expression including idea generation, paragraph development, and essay construction. The writing portion of this course concentrates on the development of clear and organized sentences, paragraphs, and compositions, and their applications to real world documents such as cover letters, resumes, and memos. Students examine grammar, vocabulary and the writing process, and may apply the skills learned to multiple forms of writing. Students also explore oral communication skills used in a business setting, and how to effectively communicate written ideas. Other topics may include presentation skills, etiquette, interpersonal skills and delivery techniques. Students will be expected to deliver oral and written presentations to the instructor and classmates.	5
ENG 110	Business Communications II* Students in this course explore written and oral communication as a skill to be mastered and applied at a more sophisticated level. Instruction covers complex communication strategies and conventions of written expression focusing on concept development, report construction. The writing portion of this course concentrates on the development of clear and organized complex structures and their applications to real world documents. Students will be expected to deliver oral and written presentations to the instructor and classmates.	5
MAT 101	Applications of Mathematics* This math course is a thorough review and study of algebraic concepts, functions, and operations, utilizing a balanced approach of basic algebraic theories with practical applications and conceptual understanding. Students review mathematical concepts including addition, subtraction, multiplication, fractions and decimals as it applies to business operations. Students gain an understanding of basic mathematical and algebraic concepts and functions needed for the world of business including but not limited to account balancing, payroll, depreciation, profit and loss calculations, interest calculations, problem solving, probability theory, and decision making.	5
MED 110	Medical Terminology Students gain an understanding that many medical terms are made up of interchangeable word parts that are used over and over in different combinations. Students in this course learn about different subsystems of the human body and their accompanying terms, as well as examine the structure of word parts and functions of each subsystem. Students also examine how the terminology relates to pathology, diagnostic procedures, treatment procedures, and pharmacology.	5
MED 150	Health Insurance This course introduces students to the various types of health insurances and the forms used in medical billing. Students will gain an understanding of the differences between insurance plans and policies. Upon completion of this class the students will accurately know how to complete the forms used for billing as well as have an understanding of the life cycle of an insurance claim.	5
MED 160	Diagnosis Coding This course teaches the skills required to properly code a diagnosis. Students will learn the differences between the different types of ICD codes, such as disease, injury, and routine health care screening codes. They will learn how to properly indicate each diagnosis code on the CMS-1500 form and they will able to code for justification of medical necessity.	5
MED 170	Supplies and Procedural Coding This course teaches the skills required to properly assign codes to office visits, procedures and surgeries performed, as well as medications and supplies used by physicians. They will learn how to bill for multiple procedures performed as well as for unusual circumstances. Students will be introduced to the requirements for correct reimbursement as well as the rules for additional justification.	5
MED 200	Electronic Medical Billing Students examine how medical software is applied to activities such as appointment scheduling, building patient files, adding guarantor information, account billing, and basic financial management. Students learn about the flow of information and the role of computers in a medical office. Students gain an understanding of how software can be used to manage billing routines and processes, including filling out billing worksheets and posting payments and adjustments. Students study report generation regarding financial summaries, patient billing, reference lists, statement routines, and general ledgers and distributions. Finally, students explore more advanced functions such as unique payments, aging reports, patient data, and period closes with and without purges.	5
MED 210	Medical Field Overview This course provides students with knowledge of health care time accreditation, history of health care, and the continuum of care used in the field. Students wishing to enter the medical field need to have an understanding of how the various health facilities, providers, and staff deal with delivering the standards of health care in the United States. It may include topics such as the theoretical and practical applications of those techniques and unique approaches to health information management. This course may allow students to focus on a variety of career opportunities in the health care and health information management organizations, networks and other professional advancement opportunities.	5
MED 220	Medical Office Functions This course introduces students to a full range of office management topics: office environment, employees, systems and functions. It may also include usage and handling of office files and records, staying tasked oriented, professional organization, ability to work well with others, problem solving skills-requiring students to apply knowledge and skills learned to complete or solve a problem. Finally, students may learn simple solutions and latest updates on marketing techniques.	5
MED 230	Legal & Regulatory Issues in Business This course provides students with comprehensive knowledge of social economics, accreditation, legal and regulatory issues, and the intellectual property and internet law. Students wishing to enter the field of business need to have an understanding of how the various legalities affect sales, leases, and E-contracts not only in United States but possibly the global economy. Topics may include the practical and legal applications of legal limitation and liability. This course could empower students with critical-thinking skills and a vast knowledge of wealth in the realm of legal decision making.	5
MED 240	Health Care Facility This course introduces students to the perspectives of management operations and techniques used by organizations and payers to improve operations at said institutions and facilities. Topics may include the strategic implementation of programs and tools for reducing costs and improving quality of basic operations in management and staff. The course may include the use of performance improvement tools for supply chain management, scheduling, and other healthcare issues.	5
MED 250	Medical Billing Processes This course introduces students to the evolving reimbursement methodologies of the healthcare system. Topics may include health care accounting and financial statements, managing cash, billing, and collection. Students may also learn how to determine cost and use cost information in decision-making, budgeting, and performance measurement, as well as new laws and regulation that affect health care financial reporting and performance, and the revenue cycle. Finally, the student may learn about bond ratings, auditing and internal control of facility budgets and revenue.	5
MED 260	Human Resource Issues This course introduces students to a variety of topics that may include health informatics, human resources planning, organizations, recruitment and all important retention of healthcare professionals, acknowledgement of incentive influences as motivation, changing demographics, culture diversity and other factors facing human resources.	5
MED 270	Medical Management Supervision This course introduces students to a variety of examples, demonstrations, and explanations of key frameworks and models for clinical supervision. Topics may also include the development of staff supervisory relationships and focus on areas identified as problematic for supervision.	5
MED 280	Staff Management This course introduces students to the various styles and methods of communication used for motivations and development of personnel and staff members. Students examine strategic planning, personnel management, conflict management as well as learning about staff coaching and delegation techniques. This course also examines the time and stress management to allow them to handle the daily routine and stress levels of staff multitasking and patient flow with effectiveness and minimal tension. Topics may include interviewing and budgeting along with mini-workshops that can improve leadership skills and fine tune financial and organizational skills. Finally, students learn how to submit forms for various insurance agencies.	5
MED 290	Medical Front Office The Medical Front Office hosts a variety of responsibilities including the art and etiquette of emailing, greeting and directing patients, and answering telephones. Other duties may include obtaining insurance verification, collecting co pays, deductibles and authorization, admitting and scheduling patients, arranging for hospital admission and laboratory services. This course may cover these topics.	5
PRO 200	Professional Communications in the Workplace* This course focuses on professional communication in the 21st workplace. Students in this course will hone their communication skills by working on various assignments and projects, including: face-to-face conversations, collaborative work groups, presentations, and interviews. Lectures include topics in nonverbal communication, cultural differences, organizational fit, and networking within specific industries through face-to-face interactions and via social networking sites, such as Facebook and LinkedIn. By the end of the course, students will have prepared industry specific portfolios and taken part in mock interviews specific to their field of study.	5

Get the Skills to Be a Medical Office Professional

Online Medical Billing & Coding Training in 2 Years*

All the Things You’ll Learn

Here’s How You’ll Grow with Us

Is a Career as a Medical Office Professional Right for You? Find Out! Take the "Laurus College Medical Office Career Training Readiness Quiz"

Where You Could Be in a Couple Short Years

You’ve Already Got a Life and We Appreciate That

The Laurus Advantage

Meet the Faculty

Rebecca Sandoval, Department Director (Medical Billing Department)

Norma Walker, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

Charla Gonzales-Sanchez, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

Sheryl Munoz, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

Patricia Lincoln, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

Amy Hawkins, Instructor (Medical Billing Department)

Is a Rewarding Career as Medical Office Professional Right for You? Get More Info…

Online Medical Billing & Coding Training in 2 Years^*