Online Medical Billing and Coding Certification Prep

Become a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist

This 100% online medical billing and coding course will prepare you for success as you learn about legal, ethical, and regulatory concepts central to this field, including HIPAA compliance, official coding guidelines, and third-party payer requirements. You can also choose a voucher for the professional medical billing and coding certification (Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)) that best aligns with your interests and career goals—setting this course apart from others you may have seen before!

Upon completing this course, you will earn a Certification of Completion and be prepared for your selected certification exam.

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Job Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary of medical billing and coding specialists is $47,180 (as of May 2022). Jobs for these professionals will likely increase by 8% through 2032, much faster than the average for all other professions (3%).

The BLS also estimates that at least 15,000 new jobs for medical billers and coders are expected annually, on average, over the decade.

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 medical billing and 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 have both medical billing and medical coding skills.

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 medical billing and coding. 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) in the top 5 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

•  Medical Billing and Coding
• Medical coding terminology is required for medical coding, including the structures and functions of the human body
• The disorders and medical procedures common to each body system
• Legal, ethical, and regulatory concepts central to the field, including HIPAA compliance and third-party guidelines for filing insurance claims
• The main coding manuals: ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and HCPCS Level II
• How to code diagnoses, services, and procedures for all systems of the body
• Fundamentals of medical billing & coding and medical terminology
• Word parts and the structures and functions of the human body

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

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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Online Pharmacy Technician Certification Prep

Become a Pharmacy Technician

This 100% online pharmacy technician course will prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)—exam voucher included. Your training helps you understand how to assist the pharmacist in the packing and distribution of medication. You will obtain hands-on practice in retail pharmacy procedures through an online lab module.

Pharmacy technician training covers the ethics of pharmacy practice and education about prescription medications, patient care and interaction, and charges and reimbursement. You will also have the option to perform a hands-on, 100-hour Clinical Experience. Clinical Experiences are based on individual state board requirements, see requirements below.

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Job Outlook for Pharmacy Technicians

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for pharmacy technicians will grow 6% through 2032, faster than the average rate for all other professions (3%). Over the decade, around 44,900 jobs for pharmacy technicians are expected annually.

The BLS notes that, on average, the annual salary for pharmacy technicians is $40,300 (as of May 2023), with the top 10% earning more than $57,000.

Pharmacy Technicians FAQs

What is a pharmacy technician? What does a pharmacy technician do?
Pharmacy technicians order and stock medications, prepare medications for distribution and provide information to patients. Pharmacy technicians may perform many of the same duties as a pharmacist; however, their work must be approved by a pharmacist before medication can be dispensed. 

Do pharmacy technicians need certification?
Requirements for pharmacy technicians vary by state, but most require certification, registration or licensure. Earning your certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) provides a valuable, industry-recognized credential that meets most states’ requirements.

How long does it take to complete a pharmacy technician course?
Pharmacy technician training can be completed in one year or less. This does not include the time you spend in Clinical Experience or preparing and sitting for state licensure.

Is a pharmacy technician a good career?
As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, more pharmacy technicians will be needed in pharmacies and may even see themselves taking on greater responsibilities in their role.
 

Course Objectives

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacy technician role, including essential professional skills and communication expectations necessary for success in a pharmacy setting
• Understand pharmacy regulations and standards from regulatory agencies and professional associations to ensure patient safety, high-quality care, and proper medication handling
• Gain practical knowledge of medication processing and handling procedures, including the ability to identify medication orders and read prescription forms accurately
• Learn about medication storage guidelines and quality assurance procedures in the pharmacy department
• Develop essential skills for success as a pharmacy technician, including accuracy, attention to detail, and effective communication
• Prepare for the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB)'s Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) and earn the highly respected Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential upon successful completion

Prerequisites and Certification Requirements

To register for this course, you must be 18 years of age or older. You should be proficient in keyboarding (approximately 35 words per minute), have a basic understanding of a word-processing computer program (Microsoft Word is recommended), have a command of English grammar and punctuation, and have a basic understanding of high school math.

To participate in the competency activities and receive feedback from your instructor, you will need to have access to a video camera (on the phone or other device of familiarity) and be able to upload the video as an .mp4 file to the assignment pages for review. These activities are required in order to pass the course successfully.

Certification Requirements:

• Reside in the United States of America or its territories (US)
• Completion of a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program or equivalent Practicum Experience
• Full disclosure of all criminal and State Board of Pharmacy registration or licensure actions
• Compliance with all applicable PTCB Certification policies
• Passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam® (PTCE®)

State Requirements:

You must ensure that the Pharmacy Technician course meets your state's requirements. For more information, visit your state's Board of Pharmacy site or view a map directly from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) website. You can also call the state board and ask for the current technician regulations. This course does not meet state requirements for students intending to work in North Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Please note that PTCB credentials are designed for use exclusively in the US. Therefore, PTCB exams are generally only administered in the US. Active members of the US military and their spouses are an exception and are eligible to test anywhere in the world.

Clinical Experience Requirements:

As a student in our Pharmacy Technician course, you'll have the opportunity to participate in our exclusive Clinical Experience, which provides a valuable advantage in today's competitive job market. Through our nationwide agreement with several pharmacies, you can gain hands-on experience and assist pharmacists with prescriptions, patient inquiries, and administrative tasks.

To qualify for the Clinical Experience, you will need to meet certain requirements, including passing a drug screening test, obtaining professional liability insurance, completing a background check and employment verification, meeting current immunization standards, and conforming with state mandates such as registration, fingerprinting, licensing, etc. Additional forms may be necessary for participation in the Clinical Experience with certain pharmacies. Please note that while we strive to find available openings, a Clinical Experience placement is not guaranteed for the Pharmacy Technician course and may take up to 12 weeks to secure. As a candidate, you should start applying for the PTBC Trainee License 2 weeks before you take the final exam in the course.

Instructors

• Carline Dalgleish
• Sharon L. Blackford
• Stacey O'Brien
• Leahnata Davis
• Kate Moura Dos Santos
• Alexis M. Ramirez
• Mary Mould
• Melissa Dunworth
• Betty Stahl
• Lorraine Zentz

Instructor Interaction: The instructor looks forward to interacting with learners in the online moderated discussion area to share their expertise and answer any questions you may have on the course content.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
 

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Online Bookkeeping and QuickBooks Online Training

Learn Bookkeeping with QuickBooks Online

Regardless of the industry, all businesses can benefit from using QuickBooks to organize in their finances, stay on top of invoices, pay bills on time and track expenses efficiently. This 100% online course will teach you how to use QuickBooks Online for basic accounting, recording income and expenses, and entering checks and bank transfers. Once you complete this course, you will understand how to get your finances in order and be prepared for the QuickBooks Certified User Exam.

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Job Outlook for Bookkeepers

• According to PayScale.com, bookkeepers earn on average $17.37 per hour. Experienced bookkeepers can earn over $56,000 annually.
• According to CareerBuilder.com, bookkeeping is a highly transferable skill set for accounting professionals who want to advance into financial analysis or management roles.
• Technology is highly relevant to the bookkeeper's role. Mastering QuickBooks Online is the key to matching bookkeeping skills with expanding requirements for analysis, visual data presentation and reporting that provides value-added to the traditional bookkeeper's duties.

Bookkeeping FAQs

What does the bookkeeper role invovled?
Bookkeepers serve on the front lines of a person, company or organization's financial health. Strong bookkeepers set up, deploy and manage systems that record the flow of funds into and out of an entity's coffers. Using reporting tools and systems, bookkeepers help individuals and operational managers stay aware of and improve an entity's financial status and performance.

Why do bookkeepers need Quickbooks?
QuickBooks® has replaced the manual entry functions of traditional bookkeeping. However, the organization, reporting and use of financial data still rely heavily on human input and processing. Knowing how to automate your bookkeeping practice with QuickBooks is an important aspect to staying competitive in today’s job market.

Do companies want bookkeepers who already know Quickbooks?
Yes, if you're an expert in the latest version of QuickBooks, you can walk into any small business and immediately organize their finances. QuickBooks is the top-rated accounting software for small businesses, you likely know a company that already uses it.

Course Objectives

• Prepare to sit for the QuickBooks Certified User Exam (QBCU).
• Successfully set up a company file in QuickBooks Online.
• Perform fundamental analysis of accounts, financial documents, and reports.
• Perform essential bookkeeping duties and tasks.
• Apply basic accounting principles (accrual method, depreciation, and so on) to bookkeeping practices.
• Understand fundamental accounting concepts and how QuickBooks works to support these concepts.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites to take this course.

Curriculum

1. Introduction to Bookkeeping
2. Accounting Basics
3. Getting Started with QuickBooks Online
4. The Chart of Accounts
5. Centers and Lists
6. Bank Accounts
7. Recording Expenses and Paying Bills
8. Credit Cards and Loans
9. Sales Receipts
10. Invoices, Estimates, and Customizing Sales Forms
11. Billable Expenses and Customer Credits
12. Sales Taxes and Reports
13. MIDTERM
14. Product and Service Items
15. Managing Inventory
16. Managing Projects and Sales
17. Progress Invoicing, Late Fees, and Bad Debts
18. Payroll
19. Fixed Assets and Loans
20. Business Entities and Owner Transactions
21. Banking Rules, Receipts, and Budgets
22. Adjusting and Reviewing the Books
23. Starting a Bookkeeping Business
24. Your Career Roadmap: The Job Search and Future Opportunities (optional)
25. Communication and Organization (optional)
26. FINAL

Instructors

Wade Lindenberger
Wade Lindenberger is a CPA with over 20 years of financial accounting and management experience in public accounting and private industry. He is currently Director of Finance and Administration for New Children's Museum. Before his current position, he worked as the National Finance and Accounting Service Line Leader for Premier Alliance Group, a national professional services firm. Wade was also Director of the Finance and Accounting service line for the San Diego office of a global, publicly held professional services firm. Before becoming a consultant, Wade was Divisional Controller for one of the leading health and fitness club chains in the world. He has also been Internal Audit Manager and Divisional Controller for a division of a Fortune 500 global energy project management company. He began his career with Coopers & Lybrand, predecessor to PricewaterhouseCoopers, one of the "Big Four" CPA firms. He has previously served as an instructor for courses at Coopers & Lybrand and UC San Diego and is currently an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego School of Business. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Bookkeepers' Advisory Board.

Helene K. Liatsos
Helene K. Liatsos is business advisor and QuickBooks Certified Advisor with more than 25 years of experience. She consults for a range of companies, from travel agencies to startups. Her company Home Office Management Experts was awarded the 2004 Home-Based Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Helene holds a Bachelor of Arts from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.

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Online Freight Broker/Agent Training

Become a Freight Broker Online

Gain the comprehensive skills needed to build a successful freight brokerage or freight brokerage agency—100% online. Learn key freight fundamentals for future success, such as the laws and terminology, setting up your business, valuable tools and software, contracts, and forms, how to find shippers and do ratings, and much more.

In this freight broker training you will learn the differences between a freight broker and a freight agent, their various duties and responsibilities, and the laws and legal requirements for both. You will also learn the steps of setting up carrier and shipper packets and contracts, marketing and advertising avenues, rate quotes, how to interact with shippers and carriers to keep lines of communication open, and valuable negotiation skills.

You also have access to Brooke Transportation Training Solutions, which hosts a Broker/Agent Resources Day event. This event includes a virtual option held one Friday a month exclusively for course graduates.
 

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Job Outlook for Freight Brokers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for logisticians, which includes freight brokers, are likely to increase 18% through 2032. On average, around 21,800 jobs for freight brokers are expected annually over the decade. As of May 2022, the median yearly salary for freight brokers was $77,520, with the top 10% earning over $124,050.

Over 11 billion tons of freight move by truck each year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). This number will grow, so skilled freight brokers are needed to keep the industry moving.

FAQs about Freight Brokers

What do freight brokers do?
Freight brokers find carriers for shippers to haul their freight. They also assume financial responsibility in the shipping process by invoicing shippers, paying carriers and agents, extending credit and more.

What is the difference between a freight broker and an agent?
A freight agent acts as an independent salesperson for a freight brokerage or independent broker. Freight agents may work on commission, bringing in new customers.

What kind of hours do freight brokers work?
Freight brokers can set their own hours — deciding when and how much they work. Many work from home, so they create their own work/life balance around shipping and carrier schedules.

What is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates and provides safety oversite for commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).
 

Course Objectives

• Freight Broker/Agent
• The basics of freight brokering, and qualifications needed for freight brokers and freight broker agents
• How to set up an office, goals, and a corporate identity for a freight brokering business
• How to set up a shipper and carrier packet for a freight brokering business
• Software used for accounting and operations and how the transportation law affects a freight brokering business
• The terms, insurance requirements, liabilities, policies, and recordkeeping best practices involved in contracts between the broker, carrier, and shipper
• Ways to determine rate quotes between your freight brokerage, the shipper, and the carrier using negotiation and sales techniques

Prerequisites and Requirements

There are no prerequisites to take this freight broker course. However, this course focuses solely on U.S. domestic freight brokering, so it’s only recommended if you plan to do business in the United States.

Instructors

Jan Roach
Jan Roach has been a partner in a freight brokerage operation since 1995. For over 10 years, she ran a freight brokerage, overseeing sales, marketing, accounting and day-to-day operations. Roach holds a Bachelor of Science from Baylor University and has provided training for the freight industry since 2001.

Jeff Roach
Jeff Roach has been in the transportation industry since 1986. He founded his own freight brokerage in 1995, after working as the vice president of national accounts for a major truckload carrier. He turned his brokerage into a multimillion-dollar business and began developing freight broker courses in 2001. Roach holds a Bachelor of Science from Abilene Christian University.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime.

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