Use an online program that offers online inpatient medical coding training. Examples include Career Step, Allied Health Schools and Gatlin Education (See Resources). The courses include basic studies such as English, math and biology. Program-specific classes are medical terminology, health care information technology and procedural and diagnostic coding including inpatient codes.
Request information via email from a community college, such as Wallace State College, or a university that offers online inpatient medical coding programs (see References). Colleges that offer medical coding as an online course accept both in-state and out-of-state applicants. This allows you to apply for federal assistance, like a Pell grant, to help pay for classes.
Enroll in the class that offers the inpatient medical billing training you plan to complete. Research the different programs online and at the college to determine which type of training offers the classes and schedule that works best for you. Make sure the program is accredited as well (see Resources). Purchase the class books and supplies required for the online course. Pay the fees for the courses to receive your logon ID and password.
Use the login information and web address provided by the school to enter the system to start classes. A guide is provided when your classes begin that gives you a list of classes, a syllabus and required work for each class. Follow the syllabus to remain up-to-date on all classes.
Complete the online classes that include medical terminology, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations with a passing grade. Obtain a copy of your online diploma for your records.