Institute News 15
by Pam Biffle, CPC
Do you have a CRN Institute Student Success Story to share? Just drop an e-mail to pam@crn-institute.com. Let us know about your promotions, new jobs and new credentials or anything else you would like to share!
If you need college credit E-mail Laureen about how to enroll at Drexel University even if you don't live anywhere near Philadelphia. New classes start in April.
Classes are also held at Christina Healthcare in Delaware. E-mail Laureen if you are interested in joining this group.
For those working full time in NJ the CRN Institute is forming a consortium where employers can take advantage of a grant program that provides training funds (including books and possibly the board exam fees) to provide their employees added skills. The employer contributes the paid time for the employee to attend the training. For more information and to be put on the interested list
E-mail Laureen.
Most of you are aware that we offer courses in Medical Billing, Physician Coding and Hospital Coding but were you aware that we also offer self-study courses in Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for only $199.00 each. Check back as we announce new courses now under development. Let us know what new courses you would like to see the CRN Institute offer.
Don’t forget we offer payment plans $195.00 down and $100.00 a month.
Student Success Stories
Congratulations to Rebecca Manderach of Mercy Health System where she is a Biller / Coder for completing the 303 Hospital Coding course.
What made you decide to take a course?
The online/ ILS format made it easier to complete the work when my schedule allowed.
Why did you pick CRN Institute?
I was planning to take a Hospital- based course for some time, but finding a course with reputable instructors was very important to me. It’s hard to check credentials of online course instructors. But. I was fortunate enough to read several articles written by CRN instructors in the AAPC Coding Edge magazine which gave me a good picture of their knowledge. I felt if the AAPC trusted their knowledge so could I.
What did you like best about the course?
The lectures, they were lengthy, but very informative.
Is there anything you would say to someone thinking about taking a course?
If you are looking for a course that will give you more than you pay for this is it.
Do you currently have any coding/medical credentials?
CPC
Are you planning on sitting for a Board exam?
Rebecca is planning on sitting for the CCS exam in the future. We look forward to hearing of her success.
Any other comments?
I enjoyed my experience, and plan to take more courses with CRN in the future. Thank you .
Congratulations to Jean Lightcap of Southern Ocean County Hospital in Manahawkin , NJ where she is an Outpatient Medical Coder – Radiology, other testing departments and ER cases for completing the 303 Hospital Coding course.
What made you decide to take a course?
I was lucky enough to move into coding, in 2000, from another position in the hospital. I quickly realized I needed to know a lot more then basic medical terminology.
Why did you pick CRN Institute?
I attended an in-depth Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology class, the RN requirement, at OCC ( Ocean County Community College ) in Toms River . I then took a couple coding courses at the college, and realized they were too basic. When a co-worker, a medical transcriptionist, told me she had taken the Coding 301 with CRN and how intense it was, I checked it out online. I was very impressed with the wed-site and after speaking with Laureen, was more impressed and enrolled in the 301 Course in 2004.
What did you like best about the course?
The wealth of knowledge and teaching skill of Laureen and her staff is exceptional. Also very helpful, is how the lectures follow along with the Faye Brown book and highlight the most important information. It was a great review after my own reading. In addition, Laureen has wonderful teaching and lecture skills. Her pronunciation of medical terms amazes me! Laureen’s ideas on notes to add to the coding manuals are so helpful. Also Tara , from the CPC course, is exceptional! She is energetic, very knowledgeable, and supportive. I appreciated Pam Biffle’s follow-up on incorrect test answers, patiently giving me all the specifics and detailing the process to find the right codes.
Is there anything you would say to someone thinking about taking a course?
Having taken courses at the community college, I know there is no comparison with the intense coding courses at CRN . People are finding out that coding is paying well and think it is easy money. They say: “all you do is look it up in the book”. I caution them and direct them to CRN for their own good! I recommended CRN to 3 people and will continue to do so. I give them the website and tell them to check it out.
Do you currently have any coding/medical credentials?
Jean is sitting for her CCS exam soon and we look forward to hearing from her.
Have you taken any other CRN Institute courses or are you planning on taking another course?
I might look into a refresher for the CPC-H course. I am interested in doing case studies in the classroom prior to taking the CCS in the Spring. I have to see what is offered.
Do you have any other credentials?
No. I am embarrassed to say, I did not pass the CPC -H test in December 2004. I have to admit that I did not finish the case studies and that was my downfall. I am glad I have this background anyway. It is the logical way to progress to the next level of coding. I am going for the CCS this time. My employer recognizes this credential with a substantial amount of additional money per hour. My job position in coding does not allow me to apply my wealth of knowledge to higher levels of coding and I am eager to do this. The prefect scenario for me would be to pare knowledge with experience. To open doors to advancement, validate my knowledge, and achieve a personal goal, I hope I pass the CCS . I agree with the experts who say credentialed coders assure a high level of professionalism in the field.
Any other comments?
Some employers are still overlooking the impact on reimbursement and other costs when hiring uneducated staff. They do not include coding education in the areas of registration, finance and billing, and service technicians who apply charges. The doctors also need constant support and training from coders to maintain quality documentation. So much time and dollars are wasted due lack of a coordination of education. I do see this changing. I have provided information to my boss and those in higher authority have to make these choices. As for me, I believe: “EDUCATION IS THE KEY! Thanks CRN!”
If you are a CRN student and have recently gotten a new credential, job or have something exciting you want to share send it to me so you can be featured in our next issue.
Until next time...
--Pam