Medical coding involves accurate and efficient translation of medical terminology into alphanumeric diagnostic and procedure codes in order to convey information about illnesses and treatment. This assists in accurate and standardised communication of diagnoses to insurers and patients so that providers can be paid for their services. Medical billing is related as it entails billing insurers and patients for procedures and appointments. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) offer certification in this field. The health system in India is quite heavily reliant on private providers, offering opportunities in this field.

There seem to be a number of routes to qualifying for Medical Coding and Billing in India, including both distance learning and part-time courses. A number of institutions offer these courses, however it is vitally important to check the credentials of any institution you may choose to make sure they are authentic and not engaging in deceptive or fraudulent educational practice at high financial cost. This is particularly relevant for distance learning options.

According to the website http://www.innerbody.com, there is not really a set educational requirement for entry into medical coding and billing, however a strong knowledge of biology, anatomy, physiology and medical terminology would be a distinct advantage. They suggest that most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent and would prefer candidates with at least a year of study beyond high school. In some cases, medical coding specialists could be trained entirely on the job. This would be of particular relevance to those with a strong science or medical background or experience in other areas of health information management. Relevant skills in carrying out this work would include strong analytical skills, being detail-oriented, being comfortable in independent working and decision-making and having strong computer skills.

Examples of Indian course providers are:

The Manipal University in India offers a six-week Certificate Programme in Medical Coding and Billing (see attachment) for which they require undergraduate students in any Health Sciences Course.

Achievers Spot (http://www.achieversspot.com/training.html) offer Certificate and Advanced Certificate programmes in Medical Coding with different weekday and weekend options. Eligibility is Any Medical, Paramedical and Life science Graduates and Post Graduates. Courses cover Medical Terminology, ICD-9 CM, CPT-4 and Specialty training in Radiology, Surgery, Evaluation & Management, Anesthesia and Pathology coding required for US healthcare BPO.

SATHYAVANI INFOTECH offers distance learning training in which candidates are trained in medical coding software to work on ICD-9 CM, CPT, and HCPCS with live projects (http://www.sathyavaniinfotech.com/medical_coding.html). They do not appear to specify eligibility however. They claim to provide written material via courier and online support from tutors with online classes.

There are numerous other courses that can be found by a Google search ‘medical coding and billing training in India.’ Many will specify the eligibility requirements. Again I cannot emphasise enough the necessity of checking credentials of any provider you may choose.
Good luck!