Online Class: CPT Coding for Beginners

Unlock the potential of seamless medical billing with an extensive course on CPT coding, bridging the gap between medical providers and insurance companies for accurate compensation. Engage in a detailed study of every CPT section, from Evaluation and Management to Radiology, transforming theoretical knowledge into real-world coding proficiency.
$145.00
no certificate
- OR -
$170.00
with CEU Certificate*
Start Right Now!
$170.00 (with CEU Certificate)
Taking multiple courses? Save with our platinum program.
 
  • 15
    Lessons
  • 39
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 4,558
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 20
    Hours
    average time
  • 2.0
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

In-Depth Medical Coding: Navigating the CPT Landscape

Medical coding stands as the cornerstone of the modern healthcare system. It's the bridge between medical practitioners and insurance agencies, ensuring that healthcare providers are compensated appropriately for their services. With a robust foundation in the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding manual, professionals in the medical field can enjoy a seamless experience in medical billing, coding, collections, and office administration.

Our comprehensive self-study course offers a thorough exploration of the CPT coding manual, combining essential guidelines with real-world applications. It serves as a guide for beginners and a refresher for seasoned professionals, catering to a broad spectrum of learners.

Who Will Benefit? This course is meticulously crafted for individuals across various facets of the medical domain:

  • Aspiring medical billers and coders looking for a foundational grasp on CPT.
  • Medical collectors aiming for accuracy in their tasks.
  • Medical office administrators seeking efficiency in day-to-day operations.
  • Experienced coders aiming to refine their skills and boost their speed, especially when gearing up for the coding certification exams.

Course Highlights:

  • Intricacies of the CPT Code: Begin with the basics of the CPT coding system. This introductory module sets the stage, allowing students to get acquainted with the code's structure and significance.

  • Deep Dive into Modifiers, Sections, and Symbols: Go beyond the basics by understanding the nuanced differences and critical markers within the CPT.

  • Comprehensive System Reviews: Engage in systematic learning from Evaluation and Management to Radiology and Pathology sections of the CPT. Each section is accompanied by assignments and netlinks to provide an immersive experience.

  • Scenario-based Learning: Contextualize theoretical knowledge with real-life coding scenarios. This ensures not just rote learning but a practical understanding of the application of codes in various medical contexts.

Course Breakdown: Each module of the course is tailored to offer a granular understanding of the various sections of the CPT:

  1. Introduction to the CPT Coding System: Foundation of CPT and its relevance.
  2. Modifiers, Sections, and Symbols of CPT®: Decoding the intricacies of CPT.
  3. Evaluation and Management CPT® Section: Navigating patient interactions and services.
  4. Anesthesia CPT® Section: Grasping codes related to sedation and pain management.
  5. Surgery and the Surgical Package in CPT®: Understanding procedural coding nuances.
  6. General & Integumentary CPT® Section: Delving into skin and related systems.
  7. Musculoskeletal System CPT Section: Codes for bones, muscles, and joints.
  8. Respiratory CPT Section: Learning codes for lung and airway procedures.
  9. Cardiovascular CPT Section: Delving into the heart and blood vessels.
  10. Digestive System CPT Section: Codes for gastrointestinal procedures.
  11. Urinary System CPT Section: Navigating renal and urinary procedures.
  12. Male and Female Genital CPT Section: Understanding reproductive system codes.
  13. Maternity CPT Section: Emphasizing childbirth and maternal care.
  14. Nervous System CPT Section: Unpacking codes for neurological procedures.
  15. Radiology and Pathology CPT Sections: A look into diagnostic procedures and laboratory tests.

Whether you're starting your journey in medical coding or refining your expertise, our course promises a transformative experience. Dive deep into the world of medical coding, unlock opportunities, and set yourself up for success in the dynamic world of healthcare. Join us and steer your career in the right direction with a command over CPT coding!

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.30 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(2,905 votes)

Lesson 1. CPT and Its Role in Modern Healthcare Billing

The AMA's CPT coding system, a cornerstone for medical billing since 1966, transforms procedure descriptions into standardized codes necessary for insurance claims, demanding comprehensive understanding of its indexes, modifiers, and section-specific norms. Accurate coding, linked to relevant ICD-10-CM codes, hinges on organizational details within the manual's main body and updated guidelines, crucial for reimbursement efficacy. Additional lesson topics: Understanding Medical Necessity; Introduction to CPT Coding Part 1; Introduction to CPT Coding Part 2 125 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-WordSearch-7631.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?; Test your Knowledge; Test your Knowledge; Test your Knowledge; Test your Knowledge; Test your Knowledge; My understanding of this assignment; CPT coding Manual; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Assignment_Intro to CPT Coding Systems
  • Assessment: Exam/Intro to CPT Coding
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. The Art and Science of Modifiers in Medical Coding

Modifiers are critical in medical coding as they specify how a procedure was altered without changing its fundamental nature, affecting both the informational and financial aspects of healthcare claims. Mastering the use of modifiers, found in Appendix A of the CPT manual, equips coders to navigate complex scenarios and ensure accurate reimbursement. 131 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-WordSearch-7633.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Modifiers, Sections & Symbols of CPT
  • Assessment: Exam/Modifiers-Sections and Symbols of CPT
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. From Office Visits to Critical Care: A Comprehensive Guide to E/M Services

E/M coding involves structuring medical services into categories like office and hospital visits, consulting specifics for patient care. Familiarity with the CPT coding manual and its guidelines is essential for accurate coding and management. 115 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-WordSearch-7635.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?; Grading Poll Question
  • Assessment: Exam/Evaluation & Management
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Understanding Anesthesia in Surgery

The coordination of anesthesia and surgical teams ensures effective pain management and patient care during surgeries, ranging from local to general anesthesia. CPT® codes and modifiers guide the billing process, addressing factors like the patient's health status and specific procedural needs. Additional lesson topics: CPT Anesthesia Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video 130 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Anesthesia Section
  • Assessment: Exam/Anesthesia Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Comprehensive Guide to Surgical Coding and Procedures

CPT codes for surgeries range from 10021 to 69990, covering diverse medical systems from integumentary to auditory. Surgical coding guidelines require familiarity with code modifiers and insurance carrier rules. 0 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WordSearch-7639.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?

Lesson 6. Integumentary Insights: CPT Coding Essentials

Navigating CPT codes for the integumentary system involves recognizing anatomical components such as the skin, hair, and nails and decoding related medical procedures like debridement and Mohs surgery. Coders must differentiate complexities in procedures and adhere to specific guidelines to ensure accurate reporting and billing. Additional lesson topics: CPT Integumentary Section Guidelines and How To Part 2; CPT Integumentary Section Guidelines and How To Code Part 1; CPT coding for Repair Codes; CPT coding for Removal of Skin Tags 26 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-WordSearch-7641.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_ Integumentary System Coding Assignment
  • Assessment: Exam/Integumentary System
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Introduction to Musculoskeletal CPT Guidelines

Manipulation, external, and internal fixations are key procedures in treating fractures within the musculoskeletal system, with coding guidelines specifying the methods used. The CPT code range 20000-29999 covers diverse musculoskeletal procedures, including casting, strapping, and endoscopic techniques. Additional lesson topics: CPT Musculoskeletal Section Guidelines, and How To Code Video 96 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-WordSearch-7643.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Musculoskeletal System
  • Assessment: Exam/Musculoskeletal System
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Respiratory System CPT Overview

The key to accurate CPT coding for the respiratory system lies in understanding the specific procedures and their complexity, as indicated by codes ranging from simple excisions to extensive surgeries. Key anatomical structures such as sinuses and the larynx are associated with unique medical procedures, which require careful attention to coding details to ensure compliance and prevent insurance issues. Additional lesson topics: CPT Respiratory Section Guidelines and How To Code Video; Sinus Videos 130 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-WordSearch-7645.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Respiratory System
  • Assessment: Exam/Respiratory System
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Introduction to Cardiovascular System Coding

Lesson Summary 4: Understanding cardiovascular CPT coding involves navigating a wide range of procedures, from heart surgeries to pacemaker insertions, within codes 33010-39599. Detailed guidelines ensure correct coding, especially for complex procedures like combined arterial-venous grafting and electrophysiologic operations. Additional lesson topics: CPT Cardiology Section Guidelines, and How To Code Video; CPT Cardiology Section Guidelines, and How To Code Video 120 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Assessment: Cardiovascular Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Mastering Digestive System Codes

Through a detailed examination of digestive system coding, the lesson underscores procedures within the manual's 40490-49999 range while unraveling the complexities of tonsillectomy and endoscopic surgeries. It further highlights the critical nature of techniques such as decompression and gastrostomy, pivotal for ensuring precision in the medical coding realm. 113 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How woul you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Digestive System
  • Assessment: Exam/Digestive Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. Navigating the CPT Manual: Urinary System Procedures

In the urinary system subset of the CPT manual, coders navigate a hierarchy of codes for renal transplants, urethroplasties, and more, with focus on procedure context and previous interventions. Code modifiers like -26, -50, and -58 are crucial for addressing aspects like professional component and surgery stages. Additional lesson topics: CPT Urinary and Male Genital Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video 26 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-WordSearch-7651.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Assessment: Exam/Urinary System
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Understanding CPT Codes for Male & Female Genital Systems

Male Genital System coding, defined under codes 54000-55899, includes an array of procedures from biopsy to complex repairs on organs such as the epididymis and the prostate. Female Genital System coding is covered by codes 56405-58999, detailing procedures focusing on different anatomical parts, ensuring coders consider factors like the type of hysterectomy to select appropriate codes. Additional lesson topics: CPT Female Genital and Maternity Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video; CPT Urinary and Male Genital Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video 125 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Male and Female Genital Systems
  • Assessment: Exam/Male & Female Genital Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

Lesson 13. Navigating Antepartum to Postpartum Coding: The Essentials

Covering antepartum to postpartum phases, CPT guidelines (59000-59899) provide clarity on comprehensive maternity care coding, addressing various delivery methods and possible complications. The manual highlights the importance of using specific codes for procedures like diagnostic amniocentesis and ectopic pregnancy treatments. 125 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Maternity Section
  • Assessment: Exam/Maternity Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

Lesson 14. Exploring the Codes: CPT for Neural Surgeries

The lesson discusses the anatomy of the nervous system, categorized into central and peripheral systems, and outlines CPT coding for related procedures within code range 61000-64999. Specific focus is given to procedural codes for different anatomical parts, such as the skull, meninges, spine, and peripheral nerves. Additional lesson topics: CPT Endocrine and Nervous System Section Guidelines, and How To Code Video 114 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?
  • Complete: Assignment_Nervous System
  • Assessment: Exam/Nervous System Section
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

Lesson 15. Radiology Guidelines: Essential Practices for Accurate CPT Coding

CPT guidelines are crucial for proper coding of radiology procedures, detailing how various imaging techniques help in diagnosis and tracking conditions from simple X-rays to complex MRIs. Radiologists must meticulously follow instructions across categories to assign precise codes for diagnostic and therapeutic services. Additional lesson topics: CPT Pathology and Laboratory Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video Part 1; CPT Pathology and Laboratory Section Guidelines and How-To Coding Video Part 2; CPT Radiology Section Part I Guidelines and How-To Coding Video; CPT Radiology Section Part Several Guidelines and How-To Coding Video 130 Total Points
  • Review 2 Practice Worksheets
  • Lesson discussions: How would you rate this lesson?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Assignment_Radiology and Pathology Sections
  • Assessment: Exam/Radiology and Pathology Sections
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Review Exam
1506
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate the ability to accurately locate and verify CPT codes using the CPT index and main manual, ensuring compliance with coding guidelines and medical necessity requirements.
  • Define the purpose and structure of the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding system, including its major sections and the role of modifiers.
  • Define and explain the function of CPT modifiers, outlining how they can influence medical billing practices.
  • Identify and apply appropriate modifiers in case studies to ensure accurate coding according to specific procedural scenarios.
  • Describe the importance of a physician's work being influenced by the type of service, place of service, and patient's health status.
  • Identify the categories and subcategories within the Evaluation and Management section of the CPT coding manual.
  • Define the different types of anesthesia and describe their applications in surgical procedures.
  • Identify and apply appropriate CPT anesthesia codes, including add-on codes and modifiers, based on patient scenarios and medical guidelines.
  • Demonstrate the proper use of modifiers in surgical coding to accurately reflect multiple, related, or unrelated procedures performed on the same day or during the postoperative period.
  • Identify and apply the appropriate CPT surgery code for various surgical procedures based on anatomical systems and specialties as outlined in the CPT manual.
  • Demonstrate the ability to accurately code common integumentary system procedures using the correct CPT codes, based on the type of biopsy, excision, or lesion removal.
  • Recognize and describe the anatomical parts of the integumentary system, including the skin, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, hair, and nails.
  • Define the process of closed reduction in musculoskeletal CPT coding, including terms such as manipulation and stabilization, using examples from codes 20000-29999.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: CPT Coding for Beginners
Course Number: 7550018
Lessons Rating: 4.30 / 5 Stars (2,905 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is offered online and is accessible in every state across the U.S., including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. Learners in English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa can also enroll.
Last Updated: January 2024
CEU Value: 2.0 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $170.00 U.S. dollars

Choose Your Subscription Plan

Course Only
One Course
No Certificate / No CEUs
$145
for 6 months
 
Add to Cart
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate X
Includes CEUs X
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Certificate Course
One Course
Certificate & CEUs
$170
for 6 months
 
Add to Cart
Billed once
This course only
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 6 months
No. of courses 1 course
Platinum Yearly
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$189
per year
 
Start Now
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 12 Months
No. of courses 600+
Platinum 2 Years
ALL COURSES
Certificates & CEUs
$299
for 2 years
You save $79.00!
Start Now
Billed once
Includes all 600+ courses
Includes certificate Yes
Includes CEUs Yes
Self-paced Yes
Instructor support Yes
Time to complete 24 Months
No. of courses 600+
 

Student Testimonials

  • "This course was very helpful in learning the details of CPT coding. The video presentations as an aid in learning were also very useful." -- Debbie W.
  • "The instructor was clear and concise when I had questions. Encouraging to her students." -- Joline K.

Related Courses