Continuing Medical Education (CME), also known as Continuing Education Credits (CEC), also known as Continuing Education Units (CEU) refers to a specific form of continuing education (CE) that helps those in the medical field maintain competence and learn about new and developing areas of their field. These activities may take place as live events, written publications, online programs, audio, video, or other electronic media.

Content for these programs is developed, reviewed, and delivered by faculty who are experts in their individual and collective fields.

For many years, those professionally licensed in the United States and Canada, have been required by their association or by their state to maintain their license in some way. In recent years, HCFA (Health Care Finance Administration) has increasingly pushed for professional licensing requirements for much of the personnel involved in patient care, including nursing, physical therapy, etc., and more recently, coding and billing. Recommended credit hours vary from 12 to 40 per year. Credits are earned at one to two credits per hour, based on the type of learning activity.

Legal transcriptionists in some states are now required to be certified and licensed, as well as to maintain CECs annually. Court reporters in some states are now required to consider only certified transcriptionists in their secretarial pools. Various licensure regulations are in place on an individual state basis on paralegal licensure.

Over the 40 years of accumulative documentation of training materials, we have literally thousands of pages of educational material easily adapted to continuing education. The idea is relatively simple. You read an article and take a brief quiz and you are issued certain credits. The credits are tracked on your file here to make sure you are in full compliance. Pretty simple. Take a look at our Billing-Coding partner CEU program. We think you’ll like how easy and efficient it is. If you can’t find exactly what you need, let us know and we will provide you the required CEU-based information for your review and credit. But remember, if you certify with Med-certification, you will need to provide proof of your CEUs for your record.

Take advantage of Med-Certification’s CEU Program. In cooperation with BC Advantage Online CEU Center, we offer you a streamlined online continuing education credit process for medical and legal occupations to meet industry-standard requirements. Be the first to comply with new HCFA regulations.

CEUs for:

• Medical Coding and Billing
• Health Insurance Specialist
• Medical Office Assistant
• Medical Office Administrator

All of the CEUs are PREAPPROVED by the AAPC, ARHCP, PHIA, PMI, PAHCS MAB, for instance.

• Over 10,000 CEUs awarded to certified professionals over the past 12 months.

Costs?

Great news! Virtually free CEUs. We have teamed up with BC Online CEU Center allowing you to obtain up to 12 CEUs per year for just $40! Most CEU Centers charge at least that much for just one! The average cost for one CEU is $50 to $85, so you do the math, 12 CEUs @ $40 vs. at least $50 each anywhere else. 1 hour = 1 credit! The average CEUs needed per year is 12. Do the math: We give you 12 CEU credits for $40 — that’s a savings of at least $550.

How Do I Get My CEUs? 1. Subscribe to BC (Billing-Coding) Advantage
2. Log in using your use ID and password
3. Select a CEU package
4. Read the materials supplied
5. Take the online test
6. Get your results instantly!

Print or Save your CEU certificates instantly! Report to Med-certification.

It’s as easy as that! GET STARTED RIGHT NOW… Click here to sign up: http://www.billing-coding.com/meditec/

Pre-Approved Associations:

AAPC	ARHCP	MAB
PAHCS	PHIA	PMI

ICD-10 CODING TRAINING BULLETIN

If you are already a coder or want to become one, here is critical information for your career consideration.

In the healthcare field, ICD-10 coding training has become a very prominently discussed topic. ICD-9 codes for diagnoses have been used to describe diagnoses for over 40 years. The World Health Organization and government have collaborated now for several years to expand the codes in order to acquire additional data. Initially, the ICD-10 coding system was to be implemented in 2011, however, the sheer magnitude of the changes has pushed the transition forward to 2013.

Although 2013 seems like a long time away the changes are huge and most healthcare providers are literally stymied by what to do about the anticipated changes. Meditech has been in the coding business itself as well as the training process for many years. We helped providers weather the big change from RVS to CPT codes and know how to migrate successfully to the ICD-10 coding training process. We’re ready!! Here are the problems:

• The new ICD-10 code system has many more codes to deal with. It currently contains 69,099 diagnostic codes compared with 14,315 codes in ICD-9. That number increases the number of codes FIVE TIMES
• The expertise involved in using all of the additional codes will require far more documentation than the older version
• The labor intensity in the coding process will be far more complicated and will create a significant coder shortage
• Experienced coders will need training on adapting to the new codes and NOBODY HAS THE TRAINING PROCESS NAILED yet (except us).
• The ICD-9 codes will continue to be used so coders will need to know how to use both sets of codes. In fact they may use dual coding systems for many years. (Billing and coding with both ICD-10-CM and ICD-9-CM for workers compensation and auto claims do not fall under HIPAA mandates so may not feel the push to transition to ICD-10. For this reason proficiency in ICD-9-CM remains extremely important.)
• While automated coding of ICD-9 with software has been in use for some time, the complexity of ICD-10 and the need for a more organic intuitive component is going to make it virtually impossible to code medical documentation with software. Thus the seriously increased need for knowledgeable ICD-10 coders.

The new conventions using ICD-10 require a higher level of specificity than what is found in ICD-9, necessitating a strong foundation in anatomy and terminology. Meditech has always provided the best foundation possible for any coding training, including complete and thorough knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacy, and disease processes as well as surgical procedures and related terminology.

Meditech is pleased to announce that the ICD-10 coding training process will be available to potential students and coders in July 2011 INCLUDED in the Coding Module and AVAILABLE as a standalone course for those who wish to learn the new skill set.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a code set freeze, which will allow a stable learning environment effective with the 2012 codes. With the training foundation provided by Meditech, you will have an excellent base to expand into the ability to fully understand and employ the new coding conventions. In the meantime, learning ICD-9 thoroughly in the Meditech Training Program will give you a far better base than most coding training programs are able to provide.

1. There are many similarities between ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM in the guidelines, which will help ease your transition. Some of the differences you will encounter will include:
2. Higher level of specificity. Codes go up to seven characters in length.
3. Expanded injury codes, which group codes by site of injury in ICD-10-CM instead of type of injury in ICD-9-CM.
4. Creation of diagnosis/symptom combination codes, which may actually allow for reporting of fewer codes in ICD-10-CM.
5. Alphanumeric structure using all digits and characters except the letter U. This allows for flexibility and has the space needed to add new codes as needed.
6. In ICD-10-CM you will be able to describe the location, e.g., if the condition affects the left side, right side or if it is bilateral.
7. Seventh character extensions: The seventh character extender must always be the seventh character. Examples of seventh character extenders are A for active treatment; D for subsequent treatment; and S for sequela.
8. “Dummy” place holders. Because of the need for the seventh digit character extender in certain situations, the code selection may only go up to character four or five meaning we will have to use the letter “x” to fill in up to the seventh character when needed.

Let’s take a look at this example:

Patient presents to the local emergency room for a laceration of the ulnar artery at the forearm on his right arm. This is the initial encounter. The code descriptors and numbers work as follows:

S55.011 Laceration of ulnar artery at forearm level, right

• A-Initial encounter
• D-subsequent encounter
•  S-sequela

You know this is the initial encounter, so you would choose the extender “A” and code as S55.011A

• Extension “A,” initial encounter, is used while the patient is receiving active treatment for the injury

In this example the S55.011 expresses sthe exact description so the data shows the laceration, what it is and where it is located. If the patient were seen in followup for that same injury, the “D” would be used. If the patient had an infected wound as a result of the injury, and was being treated for the infection itself, you would use the “S” designator extender.

As noted earlier, documentation will be a key solution in ICD-10-CM code selection success. If you have access to provider documentation or are working with a provider, showing him or her some of the changes now could help ease the transition with the performance of documentation audits. Look at existing documentation and make sure there is enough information documented in the record to assign the encounter with the seventh character extender, that laterality is well documented and that the provider is documenting with specificity on the site of the injury or details about the patient condition. Rest assured that once the transition is really implemented, you will be chasing for more information since providers typically need more than is typically available in a chart.

Increasing numbers of trained career-oriented professionals enter the healthcare and legal fields every year. The labor force shares common goals, interests and needs. To help providers and employees meet these needs, we offer certification and continuing education services (CECs, CEUs).

The products and services offered through Med-certification are designed to provide students and professionals in both the medical services and legal services industries with the highest quality certification and continuing education products available. Please select from one of the two main categories of services as listed below.

There are literally hundreds of different medical and legal career training programs available, and whether you choose a traditional trade school, an on-line web-based course, or even a self-study book course, Med-Certification.com can provide you with the necessary testing and certification tools needed to jump start your career, and at a price that you can afford. If all of your experience has been gained through on-the-job employment, no problem, you may certify any time you think you are ready.

The practice tests will more than prepare you for certification testing. The tests are the virtual benchmarks in the professional fields we serve.

If you are interested in training or a skill upgrade visit this page:

Career Training

You may practice or certify in:

• Medical billing, health insurance, office assistant, coding, administration and transcription
• Legal secretary, transcriptionist, paralegal/legal assistant

To review the practice or certification test that interests you, just click on any of the Medical or Legal categories as listed below or on the left.

	PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONMedical and legal industry certification (billing, coding, insurance, transcription (both medical and legal), and more…) here. more information
	CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITSEarn CECs (Continuing Education Credits) in a variety of industry specialties here. more information

2 Categories:

• Medical Office Assistant (CMA)
• Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

Medical Office Assistant (CMA)
CMAs must have a thorough understanding of provider/patient public relations, be able to use practice scheduling and A/R software, understand medical terminology, laboratory and pharmacy data, with a good working knowledge of basics of billing, health insurance processing, and POS fee calculation-collection, as well as accounts receivable processes.

Medical Office Manager (CMOM)
CMOMs are able to initiate policies and protocols that will improve, protect and stabilize the financial security of the practice. They help guard the practice against risks, and motivate employees to improve productivity and increase revenue. They must demonstrate a high level of financial and personnel management, as well as, have familiarity with managed care contracts, compliance issues and exceptional patient-practice interactive and management skills. A knowledge of medical terminology, coding, billing, health insurance specialist and human resource is important.

Eligibility

CMA: To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical office assisting, or have 6 months’ experience in a provider’s office (with verification of training/or experience).

CMOM: To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical office or practice management, or have 1 year’s experience in a provider office (with verification of training/or experience).

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster – CMA: Competency related to general provider policies and procedures, patient interaction, payer processes, rules and regulations with case scenarios and exercises. The practice test takes about an hour or two and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. The tests are on-line, are open book, and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Cert-blaster – CMOM: Competency related to general provider policies and procedures, patient interaction, payer processes, compliance planning, and accounts receivable management with case scenarios and exercises. The practice test takes about an hour and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. The tests are on-line, are open book, and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Exam-Guard – CMA & CMOM: The certification test for both CMA and CMOM takes approximately 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you within 48 hours. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

Medical Office Assistant (CMA) Practice Test – $99.00

Certification Test  $229.00

Medical Office Manager (CMOM) Practice Test – $99.00

Certification Test $369.00

Call to Order 888-771-1902

This certification demonstrates an individual’s skill and experience in medical terminology, provider office billing, health insurance processing, reimbursement knowledge, patient interaction, and accounts receivable management, with an emphasis on maximizing provider reimbursement through appropriate coding and billing procedures. It will also provide the certification for Health Insurance Specialist.

Eligibility

To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical billing or have 6 months’ experience in a medical provider’s office.

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster: The practice test takes about an hour and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. Four different types of tests are available; all are interactive.

Exam-Guard: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

Your credit card statement will reflect this purchase through Meditec.com

This certification demonstrates an individual’s skill and experience in medical terminology, provider office billing, health insurance processing, reimbursement knowledge, patient interaction, and accounts receivable management, with an emphasis on maximizing provider reimbursement through appropriate coding and billing procedures. It will also provide the certification for Health Insurance Specialist.

Eligibility

To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical billing or have 6 months’ experience in a medical provider’s office.

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster: The practice test takes about an hour and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. Four different types of tests are available; all are interactive.

Exam-Guard: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

CBS Certification

This certification demonstrates an individual’s skill and experience in the intricacies of patient billing and accounts receivable management. The individual must also know how coding works and its impact on the billing process. The knowledge should include: Medical terminology, collection and verification of patient demographic and insurance data, insurance processing, statement generation, tracking and managing and reporting receivables, complete understanding of patient privacy issues and the related law. They will have a good working knowledge of various billing functions and responsibilities. Note: CBS includes Health Insurance Specialist Testing (HIS) so do not order HIS separately.

Eligibility

To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical billing or have 6 months’ experience in a medical provider’s office. Meditec.com’s training course will provide the six-months’ experience for this or any certification test.

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster: Billing competency related to the complete billing process with case scenarios and exercises on patient profiles, writeoffs, co-payments, delinquent account management, and HIPAA. The practice test simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. The tests are on-line, take about an hour or so, are open book, and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Exam-Guard: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you within 48 hours. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

Certified Billing Specialist (CBS) Practice Test $99.00

Certification Test $239.00

Call 888-771-1902 to order

Categories are:

• Medical Transcriptionist Certified (MTC)
• Medical Transcriptionist Certified Expert (MTCX)

Medical Transcriptionist Certified (MTC)
MTCs must have a very good knowledge of medical terminology, including broad-based hospital and clinical, specialty medicine, surgery, laboratory, and pharmacy. This certification will enable an individual to commence working at a novice level in transcription.

Medical Transcriptionist Certified Expert (MTCX)
MTCXs must have a masterful knowledge of medical terminology, including all of the MTC requirements noted above, plus 1500 hours of transcription experience. The individual will have taken and passed the MTC (or similar industry) exam. This certification denotes the successful candidate is an expert in the field.

Eligibility

MTC: To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course (a minimum of 300 hours) plus 100 hours of actual medical transcription training, OR have 1 year’s experience in a medical transcription setting doing transcription (verifiable in either case).

MTCX: To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course (a minimum of 300 hours), have passed the MTC exam, and have 1500 hours of actual working transcription experience.

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster – MTC & MTCX: Competency related to skills with medical terminology, research ability, logic, problem-solving, and various types of medical reports, together with formats, headings, and styles. A basic understanding of file management, uploads, downloads and equipment and software is required. The tests are on-line, are open book, and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Exam-Guard – MTC & MTCX: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you within 48 hours. The test is reviewed by an instructor. Dictation voice files will be provided and the transcription will be evaluated as part of the examination scoring process.

Certification Testing Options:

Medical Transcription Practice Test  either MTC or MTCX $99.00

Medical Transcription Certification (MTC) $349.00

Medical Transcription Certified Expert (MTCX)  $369.00

Call to Order 888-771-1902

This certification represents an individual’s knowledge about all third party payer processes, rules and regulations, a good knowledge of the reimbursement process and the ability to address and reduce billing/coding errors, file appeals, and submit and resubmit claims. A knowledge of coding and billing is required. The individual must also understand how to contribute to the accounts receivable management function in a provider office. Note: Do not apply for this certification if you are seeking BILLING certification since the Health Insurance Specialist is included in the CBS certification process.

Eligibility

To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course in medical billing, which includes health insurance claims processing, or have 6 months’ experience in a provider’s office (with verification of training/or experience).

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster: Competency related to third party payer processes, rules and regulations with case scenarios and exercises on actual payer processes. The practice test takes about an hour and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. The tests are on-line, take about an hour or so, are open book, and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Exam-Guard: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are reported to you within 48 hours. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

Practice Test – $99.00

Certification Test – $199.00

Call to Order:  888-771-1902

For certification, please see this page: Membership

CLTs are expected to have a working knowledge of the law and its specialties, court system document requirements, format rules for legal documents, captions, headings, and the ability to transcribe dictation including cases, correspondence, trial briefs, hearings, depositions, and other types of testimony. Good skills in word processing (file and e-file management, macros), legal terminology, and ability to do law-related including Internet research.

Eligibility

To achieve certification, an individual must have completed an educational training course (a minimum of 100 hours) or have 1 year of experience in a legal office providing similar services through on-the-job training (with verification of training/or experience).

Practice and Certification Testing

Cert-blaster: Competency related to the law and its specialites, pleadings, testimony, research, terminology, English grammar, formatting, confidentiality, and the law office practice. The practice test takes about a couple of hours and simulates the type of questions that are on the certification test. The tests are on-line and when submitted, you are provided the answers to the questions for your review and further study (if needed).

Exam-Guard: The certification test takes 2 hours, is timed, and the results are immediate and reported to you within 48 hours. The test is reviewed by an instructor prior to issuing the final grade and certificate.

Certification Testing Options:

Practice Test $99.00

Certification Test $299.00

Order:  888-771-1902