Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program Alumni Enjoy Working Remotely As They Join Fast-Growing Medical Records Profession

In her role as a Coding Specialist at Saratoga Hospital, Karly Zepf ’21 is a vital link between the doctors there and insurance companies, ensuring that insurance companies and patients are properly billed for their procedures and office visits. She enjoys knowing that she and other coders are one of the “last looks at doctors’ notes, making sure that correct coding guidelines are being followed so patient visits are being billed appropriately.”

It’s a profession that Karly became passionate about after making the switch following almost a decade in education as a Teaching Assistant. She enrolled in the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate program at SUNY Schenectady as a part-time student, graduated in December 2021, and earned her Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Like the other students in the College’s Medical Coding and Billing Program, Karly completed the Certificate remotely because the program is offered completely online. Students also meet individually with their advisors and faculty.  

In addition to the work itself, Karly has enjoyed the flexibility that comes with being a Coding Specialist. She is able to work remotely which works well for her family. “I love the flexibility,” she said. “A lot of the coders I know work remotely.  I have a young son, so that’s helpful with his extra-curricular activities.”

Karly is one of more than 15,000 new medical record specialists hired every year. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical records specialists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, “much faster than the average for all occupations.”

Assistant Professor Carol Maimone, of the Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health, is the lead faculty member for the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate. She has been working in the health information management field for more than 20 years as a Coder, Coding Manager, Coding Auditor, and Instructor.

“I am excited for students to learn and grow in the Medical Coding and Billing field because I know firsthand that it can get them immediately into a rewarding job market and that they can continue to advance from there,” she said. “The Medical Coding and Billing industry offers flexibility in terms of in-person, hybrid, and remote options as well as full-time and part-time opportunities. The possibilities are endless, including workplace growth, achieving credentials, or advancing to an associate, bachelors, or master's degree in Health Information Management.”

Student Meghan Conley, who is currently working as a caretaker, decided to begin the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate program after learning about the profession from a friend. She appreciates the fact that she will be able to work remotely. “My best friend’s wife is a Medical Coder and she loves her profession,” she said. “I saw how she was very passionate about it and she made it seem very achievable.”

Meghan intends to complete the program at the College, earn her Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), and then become a Certified Medical Biller and Coder for a hospital or outpatient provider setting. She plans to continue to earn other certifications through the AAPC and the AHIMA to continue to advance in her career. 

If you would like more information on the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate Program, please contact Assistant Professor Carol Maimone, in the Division of Math, Science, Technology and Health, at maimonca@sunysccc.edu