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Associate of Technical Study: Coding and Medical Billing
Beginning fall semester 2008, BGSU Firelands will offer a new associate of technical study in coding and medical billing.
The ATS is a special hybrid program combining billing, coding, business and communication skills designed to prepare students
for careers in physicians’ offices, group practices, ambulatory care centers and outpatient care sites. Medical coders and
billers and health information management students are among the occupations with the highest employment prospects in the
state according the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Students in the new ATS degree will prepare in science, mathematics/accounting and communication skills. This background
will allow them to become an important part of the health care team. Because of their strong background and focus in medical
coding and software-based accounting practices, they will provide a specific service to the employer which will directly impact
the financial success of the facility. Students who graduate from this program will be eligible to sit for numerous accreditation/certification
examinations in medical coding as sponsored by the American Health Information Management Association and the American Academy
of Professional Coders. Program requirements are strict, and a limited number of seats will be available for the fall 2008
ATS class.
The ATS in coding and medical billing is a “sister” program to BGSU Firelands’ AHIMA accredited health information technology
program. Both programs are supported by a network of clinical practice sites in the area, providing internship opportunities
which are critically important to the success of the student. The programs are also supported by a dedicated information
laboratory with provides students with real-life experiences and applications directed toward the use of electronic health
record and electronic billing and data systems.
“The decision to offer the ATS in coding and medical billing was driven by local market need and the high demand for qualified
and credentialed medical coding professionals. This new opportunity will leverage BGSU Firelands’ strengths in providing a
variety of health care education programs at the associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree levels. We are delighted to have
this new program as part of the total college experience at BGSU Firelands,” stated Interim Dean James M. Smith.
For more information about the new associate of technical study in coding and medical billing or the health information technology
program at BGSU Firelands, contact Mona Burke at 419-433-5560, ext. 20860. E-mail: burkem@bgsu.edu.
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