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A medical information coder biller working at a computer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Medical Coder/Biller?

A Medical Coder/Biller is a highly skilled professional who analyzes health records, identifies relevant diagnoses and procedures, and is responsible for translating diagnostic and procedural phrases into coded form.

The Medical Coder/Biller has a thorough understanding of the content of the medical record, which enables them to locate information to support specificity for coding. Responsibilities include preparation and processing of insurance claims, and filing and retrieval of records.

Whom do I contact for program information?

Health Science Admissions and Advising may be reached by calling 321-433-7575 or by appointment.

Students with myEFSC Portal access should schedule an appointment using EAB Navigate. Future Students with no EFSC login, use the link below. You will then be contacted via email with confirmation of your appointment.

Request Advising Appointment

The Program Coordinator is Darcy Roy, CPC, CPC-I, and she can be reached at 321-433-7589 or email royd@easternflorida.edu

When and where are classes offered for this program?
The prerequisite support courses are offered at any campus, every semester.  Many are also offered online. The core courses (HIM) are offered in a hybrid format: online coursework with evening classes on the Cocoa campus starting at 6 PM.
What type of degree do I receive after completing the program?
Upon successful completion, you will receive an Advanced Technical Diploma. This one-year program of study prepares the student for employment as an entry-level healthcare coder or biller in a variety of settings.
How can I enter the Medical Coder/Biller Program?
All students must be over 18 years old and be a high school graduate (or hold a GED®). Students must complete a general EFSC application and the five prerequisite support courses before submitting a Medical Coder/Biller program application – see Application Procedure. 
How many people and how often are students admitted into the program?

Class size is limited and is determined by the selection committee - up to 20 students are accepted, once a year.

Students are admitted in accordance with the provisions set forth in the Selection Criteria, by a selection committee. All paid applicants will receive an email 2-3 weeks after the deadline, regarding the status of their acceptance. 

What is the length of the program?

Students can begin the support prerequisite courses any semester and at any campus. The core courses (HIM) begin each fall and are designed for completion in only one year. The Professional Practicum Experience (HIM 1800) requires the signature of the program coordinator prior to registration, and is based on completion of all other courses in the major. 

When can I expect to be employed and what salary can I expect?
The demand for Medical Coder/Billers is greater than ever. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, health information technology is one of the 20 fastest growing occupations in the United States and is expected to remain in high demand as the health sector continues to expand.
What about professional support?
As a student in our Medical Coder/Biller program, you will be immediately introduced to both professional associations, AHIMA and the AAPC. Membership in both these associations is mandatory. Benefits include access to industry related information and legislation, and possible employment opportunities through networking on the local chapter level. 
Do I need to take a licensing exam after I graduate?
HIM professionals are not licensed. Instead, we take national credentialing exams. This program will prepare the student to sit for the entry-level AHIMA "CCA" exam and/or the AAPC "COC-A" or "CPC-H-A" exam. These credentials show your competence, confidence, knowledge and ability to perform on a professional level.