Huntington Junior College (HJC) Introduces Medical Billing Specialist Micro-Credential to Address Growing Demand


HUNTINGTON, W.Va., Oct. 24, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Huntington Junior College (HJC) announced the launch of its Medical Billing Specialist Micro-Credential program, designed to prepare students for a career in this growing field in as little as two quarters with no prior experience. Click to tweet.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a robust annual growth rate of 8% over the upcoming decade for medical records specialist positions, outpacing the average growth rate observed in other professions. HJC’s Medical Billing Specialist Micro-Credential is designed to help both students and employers meet the strong demand for billing specialists in the healthcare field.

Micro-credentials are short, focused qualifications that validate an individual's expertise in a specific area. They are stackable, meaning students can accumulate multiple credentials over time to enhance their skillset and career prospects. At HJC, each micro-credential consists of eight credits, spread over two quarters, ultimately conferring the title of "specialist" in the chosen field.

"Micro-credentials are a game-changer in education," said Dr. Kiko Suarez, Chief Academic Officer of HJC. "They provide students a flexible, fast, and cost-efficient way to tailor their education to their career goals. In today's job market, employers value practical skills and industry-recognized credentials, and that's precisely what our micro-credential programs offer."

The Medical Billing Specialist Micro-Credential program at HJC equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the medical coding and billing professions. This integrated approach covers the entire billing process, from the initial encounter with a patient to resolving insurance claims. Students will learn the fundamentals of submitting claims to insurance carriers, reviewing medical records, verifying patient benefits, estimating financial responsibilities, requesting authorizations, processing primary and secondary claims, posting payments, and appealing to insurance carriers.

One of the key highlights of this program is its preparation for the AAPC CPB™ certification exam. Successful completion of this micro-credential program empowers students to take this highly regarded certification exam directly through AAPC, further enhancing their credentials and career prospects in the healthcare industry.

Micro-credentials like the one offered by HJC are valuable not only to students but also to employers. They bridge gaps in work experience and skills, align positions with majors, and help establish networks and professionalism in students' careers.

To learn more about HJC's Medical Billing Specialist Micro-Credential program and take a significant step toward a rewarding career in medical billing, visit www.hjc.edu.

About Huntington Junior College

Founded in 1936, Huntington Junior College is a private, nonprofit institution that serves students from the West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio tri-state area, as well as globally. The college's mission is to prepare students for successful employment and lifelong learning. HJC is ranked among the top six medical assistant schools and dental schools in West Virginia and offers robust substance abuse counseling and business management programs. More information is available at www.hjc.edu.

Mara Conklin, (847) 340-6823
mconklin@teamclarus.com

Kathy Zoeller, (312) 485-2422
kathy@mattsonpr.com