Biography
I have been teaching in the medical field, specifically medical coding, billing, and transcription for 30 years. My work experience prior to teaching was in a clinical laboratory and later as a medical assistant in an internal medicine practice. I have a Bachelor of Science in Vocational/Technical Education and a Master of Science in Human Resource Development, both from Indiana State University in Terre Haute. I hold professional credentials as a medical assistant, CMA (AAMA), and a medical coder, CPC (Certified Professional Coder) through AAPC as well as Certified Coder Specialist-Physician (CCS-P) with AHIMA.
I am an active member of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Publications
Co-author of Understanding Medical Coding, A Comprehensive Guide, 4th edition.
I also serve as a technical advisor with Cengage Publishers in the review and edit of medical coding/billing textbooks.
Writer/contributor of the "Coding Corner" articles in the Indiana Society of Medical Assistants (ISMA) Med-A-Scoop publication.
Teaching Areas
I am the instructor for Medical Coding I and II, Physician Reimbursement, and other HIM courses. I have a teaching background in the area of medical assisting, focusing on the administrative aspects of the physician office.
Academic Background
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Masters
- Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN, USA
- Masters of Science, Major in Human Resource Management
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Bachelors
- Indiana State University, Terre Haute, IN, USA
- Bachelor of Science, Major in Vocational/Technical Education
Professional Interests
Teaching
My initial work experience was in a medical laboratory, employed as receptionist, then progressing into the billing/coding department. This interest in healthcare led me to Spencerian College Medical Assisting program. My professional work experience as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA(AAMA) began immediately after completion of this program for an internal medicine practice in Jeffersonville, IN. At that time, I also began as an adjunct instructor at Ivy Tech Community College, soon transitioning to a fulltime position teaching the administrative areas of medical assisting at both the Sellersburg and Madison campuses. This is when I truly discovered my passion: teaching! After 25 years at Ivy Tech, I began teaching in the Allied Health Department in medical coding and healthcare documentation. I have just celebrated my 15th year at IUS!
In addition to my medical assistant credential, I also am a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through AAPC and Certified Coding Specialist for physician coding (CCS-P) through AHIMA.
Teaching is my true calling and passion! There is no greater award than working closely with a group of students to help them reach their career goals!
