Health Care

Medication Aide Update

Term: 520244 CRN: 70141 Course Number: NURA 1041.X02

Location: NAH TBD Date: Jul 27, 2024 Days: S Time: 8am-4pm Instructor: G. Garza

Prepare you to obtain updated certification as a Medication Aide. Positions are available at Nursing Homes/Rehabilitation Centers. Topics include rules and regulations from the state and updated pharmacodynamics; medical abbreviations.

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Medication Aide Course

Term: 520244 CRN: 70162 Course Number: NURA 1041.X01

Location: NAH TBA Date: Jul 16 - Oct 15, 2024 Days: TR Time: 5:30pm-9pm Instructor: J Hernandez

In this course students will recieve instruction in preparation and administration of designated medications by non-licensed nursing personnel employed in licensed health care agencies including the responsibilities associated with such administration.

If you would like to learn more about Medication Aide state requirements: Texas Health and Human Services-Med Aide FAQ

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Financial aid coverage is $980 for qualifying students. To apply, go online to www.studentaid.gov to complete your application then request a referral from cpwe@southtexascollege.edu. Be sure to include your full name and date of birth.

Schedule is Tuesday & Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 PM & Saturdays from 9 am to 12:30 PM

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Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: Online Date: Days: Time: Instructor: N Smith, L Cottingham, C Dalgleish

Online Medical Billing and Coding Training

Become a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist

Medical billing and coding is a rising star in the healthcare field today. This 100% online course will prepare you to start a career in this high-demand occupation and earn the medical billing and coding professional certification that best aligns with your interest and career goals. You’ll learn how to use the Healthcare Common procedure Coding System (HCPCS) and the CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes. Additionally, you’ll gain hands-on practice using medical billing and coding software. Upon course completion, you’ll receive a voucher for the certification exam of your choice: CPC, CCA or CBCS.

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Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical billing and coding specialists earn an average annual salary of $40,350 and work in one of the fastest growing professions.
• The BLS also estimates that at least 27,000 new jobs will be needed in this profession by 2026.

Medical Billing and Coding FAQs

What does a medical biller and coder do?

Medical Billers and Coders are responsible for processing patient data including medical records and related insurance. In this position, you will code a patient's diagnosis and then request payment from the patient's insurance company. You will play an important role in ensuring that healthcare providers are quickly and accurately paid for the treatment they give patients.

Is there a difference between a Medical Billing and a Medical Coding?

Yes. Medical coders translate patient care into current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the medical services provided are accurately coded. Medical billers are responsible for creating a claim based on the codes a medical coder provides. Many professionals in this area do both medical billing and medical coding.

What are the requirements for a Medical Billing and Coding career?

Entry-level positions typically require completion of a certificate and passing one of the certification exams or an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. Additionally, medical billing and coding professionals must understand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

How long does it take to become a Medical Biller and Coder?

In most cases, it takes between one and three years to become a medical biller and coder. Earning a medical billing and coding certification can take up to one year, while earning an associate degree can take up to three years.

What is the difference between certification Exams (CPC, CCA, AND CBCS)?

Obtaining a CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification implies that an individual has met competencies in the field of medical billing and coding. Certification is invaluable to the student's career goals. Students have an opportunity to make confident, informed decisions about the national certification they prefer.

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is the gold standard entry-level coding certification for physician, or professional fee, coders. 

The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is an entry-level medical coding certification across all settings--physician practices and inpatient hospital. 

The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and is currently an entry-level medical billing certification for physician practices. In the summer of 2021, the exam will transition to an entry-level billing and coding certification, with the inclusion of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II testing.

Is medical billing and coding a good career?

U.S. News & World Report ranked medical records technician (professionals that perform medical billing, medical coding or both) as #9 on its list of “25 Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree," #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs” and on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list.

Course Objectives

• Be fully prepared to pass one of the following professional certifications that best aligns with your interest and career goals:
  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) 
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
  • Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• Learn how the CPT Category II codes and ICD-10 codes work and how to assign them in common medical billing and coding procedures
• Gain hands-on billing experience with medical billing and coding software
• Externship Starter Kit to help you gain valuable experience in the field
• Medical Biller standalone option for those who aren’t interested in Medical Coding

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Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Curriculum

1. Medical Terminology
2. Introduction to Medical Terminology
3. The Musculoskeletal System
4. The Cardiovascular System
5. The Lymphatic and Immune Systems
6. The Respiratory System
7. The Digestive System
8. The Urinary System
9. The Nervous System
10. The Special Senses the Eyes and Ears
11. The Integumentary System
12. The Endocrine System
13. The Reproductive System
14. Diagnostic Procedures, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacology
15. Medical Billing and Coding
16. Introduction to Medical Billing and Coding
17. Introduction to Health Insurance
18. Managed Healthcare
19. Revenue Cycle Management
20. Legal Aspects of Health Insurance and Reimbursement
21. ICD-10-CM Coding 
22. CPT Coding
23. HCPCS Level II Coding
24. ICD-10-PCS Coding
25. Pharmacology for Coders
26. Midterm
27. Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI)
28. Insurance Claims
29. Commercial Insurance
30. Blue Cross Blue Shield
31. Medicare
32. Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, Workers’ Compensation
33. Certification
34. How to Find a Job in Medical Billing and Coding
35. Final

Instructors

Nancy Smith

Nancy Smith has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Her clinical experience includes working as a medical assistant for a network of rural health clinics, and as a medical coder, insurance claims specialist, and medical records auditor. Nancy holds a bachelor's degree in vocational education and has developed and taught medical assistant programs.

LaTisha Cottingham

LaTisha Cottingham has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She has six years of teaching experience in the field of medical billing and coding and Medical Assisting. Currently she is employed as an HIM Analyst for a long-term care establishment that is based out of Alabama.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.

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Veterinary Assistant

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: Online Date: Days: Time: Instructor: J Grognet

Online Veterinary Assistant Training

Become a Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary assistants take charge of making sure office visits and procedures go smoothly for animals under veterinary care. Our 100% online course will train you to become a veterinary assistant, so you can turn your love of animals into a rewarding career.

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Job Outlook for Veterinary Assistant

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary of a veterinary assistant is currently just over $26,000 per year.

Jobs are expected to increase by 19% through 2026, which is considered much faster than average positions. There should be plenty of job opportunities for veterinary assistants regardless of location.

Veterinary Assistant FAQs

What does a Veterinary Assistant do?

The number one job of a veterinary assistant is to support the veterinarian as well as veterinarian technicians with basic tasks. Veterinary assistants typically feed, weigh, bathe and take the temperature of animals. They may also help give medication, clean cages and help restrain animals during treatment or other medical procedures as needed.

Do Veterinary Assistants handle administrative duties?

Some veterinary assistants perform clerical work such as scheduling appointments and speaking with customers. As a vet assistant, you may handle many of the logistical and operating duties, such as check-in, billing and after visit care. Duties will vary depending on the office you work in, but every task is to ensure the health and well-being of animals inside the veterinary practice. 

What's the difference between a veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician?

Veterinary assistants are typically training through a certificate program to help with basic duties. Veterinary technicians, on the other hand, have a formal education and work as the nurse of a veterinarian. Veterinary technicians need two-year associate degrees accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). 

Can I go from a Veterinary Assistant to a Veterinary Technician?

Yes. If you pursue additional education and licensing, you could become a veterinary technician. Working as a vet assistant is a great first step to understanding the industry, different specialties and advanced duties required to work as a vet technician.

Course Objective

• Anatomy and physiology of the major organ systems
• Handling medical records and communicate with clients and coworkers
• Restraining animals for procedures, take vital signs, and bathe them
• Nutrition, vaccinations and administering medication
• Preparing prescriptions, taking blood samples and radiographs

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Curriculum

1. Getting Started
2. Welcome to the Veterinary Hospital
3. Getting ready for your First Visit
4. Physiology and Anatomy 1: Directional Signs and the Skeletal System
5. Physiology and Anatomy 2: The Nervous System, Endocrine System, and Muscles and Joints
6. Physiology and Anatomy 3: The Circulatory and Respiratory Systems
7. Physiology and Anatomy 4: The Digestive System, Urogenital System, Liver, and Spleen
8. Front Office Duties: Records, Confidentiality and Client Relations
9. More Front Office Tips, and Determining Age and Gender of Kittens and Puppies
10. Canine Restraint
11. Feline and Exotic Restraint
12. The Physical Examination: Procedures, Restraint, and Vital Signs
13. Everyday Procedures for the Veterinary Assistant
14. Workplace Hazards and Infection Control
15. The Reproductive Cycle and Sterilization Procedures
16. Vaccinology
17. Nutrition Basics and Prescription Foods
18. Prescriptions: Preparing and Calculating Doses
19. Prescriptions: Types of Medications and What they do
20. Giving Medications
21. The Euthanasia Process
22. Taking Blood Samples
23. Interpreting Blood Tests and Handling Blood
24. Urine Collection, Handling and Interpretation
25. Tests: Serology, Scrapings, Smears, Flotations, and Necropsies
26. Radiographs and Personal Safety
27. Radiographic Positioning
28. Pain Recognition and Emergency Care
29. Dentistry: Charting, Tooth Disease, and Dental Care
30. External Parasites: Fleas, Ticks, Mites, and More
31. Parasites of the Gastrointestinal tract and Heart
32. Poisonings in Pets
33. Surgery 1: Preparing the Patient
34. Surgery 2: Your Role During and After
35. Understanding Animal Behavior
36. The Job Search and Future Opportunities

Instructor

Jeff Grognet

Jeff Grognet has been a companion animal veterinarian for 25 years. He was a pioneer in the field of veterinary assistant teaching, developing his first course more than 18 years ago. Due to the success of his veterinary receptionist/assistant courses, he expanded his teaching into other high-demand areas including pet first aid and alternative medical therapies for companion animals. He practices at a veterinary hospital and contributes regularly to several magazines. 

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Electrocardiography (EKG)

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: - Date: Days: Time: Instructor:

Electrocardiography (EKG)

In this course, students will learn fundamentals of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology. Includes basic electrocardiography procedures, interpretation of basic dysrhythmias, and appropriate treatment modalities.

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Qualifying students may be eligible for $488 in tuition assistance. 

To begin qualifying:

• apply for financial aid at Studentaid.gov.
• email cpwe@southtexascollege.edu to request a referral 

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Phlebotomy

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: - Date: Days: Time: Instructor:

Prepare you to become a Phlebotomist. Positions are available at labs, clinics, hospitals. Topics include skill development in the performance of a variety of blood collection methods using proper techniques and standard precautions.

Requirements for registration: 

• Must show Hepitiatus B vaccination
• Must have high school diploma or GED
• for all requirements see Course Information PDF

Course Information and Costs PDF

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Qualifying students may be eligible for tuition assistance. 

To begin qualifying:

• apply for financial aid at Studentaid.gov.
• South Texas College School code: 031034
• email cpwe@southtexascollege.edu to request a referral 

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Community Healthcare Worker

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: - Date: Days: Time: Instructor:

A Community Health Worker serves as the link between the community and the health and social services available and makes those services more easily accessible to those who need them. This course aims to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to go out into the community and best serve their health needs. This course is 160 hours to complete.

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Introduction to CPT Coding

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: Date: Days: Time: Instructor:

This course provides basic instructions in procedural coding in the AMA CPT-4 manual for the medical practice or outpatient setting. Medical coders must be able to use the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) manual correctly and ensure the 5 digit code(s) selected matches supporting documentation and understand the guidelines that health insurance carriers expect healthcare providers to follow when billing for services rendered.

Participants will learn to identify the main term and select the medical, surgical, and/or diagnostic procedure or service that accurately describes what is supported by the documentation in the medical record. Each major section of CPT has its own set of rules, notes, and instructions - coders must comprehend these in order to code properly. Understand Current Procedural Terminology coding language including terms like add-on code, fragmenting, bundling and unbundling. Learn to pay attention to symbols and notes, read section guidelines, and append the proper modifier when needed. Includes instructional companion manual and access to faculty to address specific questions.

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Introduction to ICD-10-CM Coding

Term: - CRN: - Course Number:

Location: Date: Days: Time: Instructor:

This course provides basic level instruction in diagnostic coding for the medical practice or outpatient setting. Medical coders abstract details from the healthcare providers' reports to select or validate the proper ICD-10-CM code(s). Participants will learn to find the condition in the alphabetic index and verify the code in the Tabular list. Coding conventions, general guidelines and chapter specific guidelines will be introduced and clarified.

 Gain insight into why it is important to code the highest degree of specificity. Learn to pay close attention to all coding instructions and understand the coding system's format and structure. Grasp how to use the place holder 'X' or the 7th character when appropriate. Identify and comprehend terms like sequela, laterality, includes/excludes, etiology, code first, code additional, see also, and unspecified code. Course includes instructional companion manual and access to faculty to address specific questions.

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