Spring 2025 Course Syllabus
Course: HITT-2245 (Section: 71, CRN: 10247)
Coding Certification Exam Review
LSCPA Logo Image
Instructor Information
Instructor Tonya Harbert
Email keithtj@lamarpa.edu
Phone (409) 984-6501
Office Umphrey Industrial Technology Center - Room: 201H
Office Hours 10:30-2:00 Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Additional Contact Information Virtual and phone appointments are available. Office visits are by appointment only. The instructor may not be in the office or on campus outside these hours and may be in other campus locations during these hours. To ensure availability, it’s best to call or email the instructor to schedule a meeting.
Course Information
Description Review of coding competencies and skills in preparation for a coding certification exam
Required Textbooks Textbook Purchasing Statement: A student attending Lamar State College Port Arthur is not under any obligation to purchase a textbook from the college-affiliated bookstore. The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

 

Book List and Access Information

  1. MindTap Online Learning Platform for Cengage’s Advanced Medical Coding Practicum, 2025–2026
    ISBN-13: 9780357932575
    Students will have instant access to this e-book through the Seahawk Book Bundle on Cengage's MindTap platform. No physical textbook will be sent.

  2. AAPC’s Facility Coder Bundle 2025 (Printed only)
    ISBN-13: 978-1-63527-946-7
    Includes AMA CPT® 2025 Professional Edition, HCPCS Level II Expert 2025, ICD-10-CM Expert 2025, ICD-10-PCS Expert 2025

Important Notes
All required resources are included in the Seahawk Book Bundle and covered by tuition (unless a student has opted out).

Textbook Return Policy
Textbooks must be returned at the end of the semester. Students may write and take notes in textbooks. Workbooks and manuals do not need to be returned.


Additional Materials/Resources None.
Corequisites/Prerequisites
  • HITT-2346 Advanced Medical Coding
Learning Outcomes Perform self-assessment of coding competencies; resolve learning gaps.
Program Student Learning Outcomes Identify, pronounce, and spell medical terms. •Translate and interpret health abbreviations and symbols. •Utilize medical software applications. •Extract information from health records for appropriate code validation. •Sequence codes according to established guidelines and standards. •Analyze current health care trends.
Lecture Topics Outline

Chapter 1. Coding in the Real World
Chapter 2. Medical Coding Software
Chapter 3. Physician Office Coding Concepts
Chapter 4. Physician Office Practicum
Chapter 5. Emergency Department Coding Concepts
Chapter 6. Emergency Department Practicum
Chapter 7. Ancillary Services Coding Concepts
Chapter 8. Ancillary Services Practicum
Chapter 9. Ambulatory Surgery Coding Concepts
Chapter 10. Ambulatory Surgery Practicum
Chapter 11. Hospital Inpatient Coding Concepts
Chapter 12. Hospital Inpatient Practicum
Chapter 13. Auditing
 

Major Assignments Schedule

 

Course Schedule

Week Dates Topics/Assignments Due Date
Weeks 1 & 2 Jan 20-24, Jan 27-31 Introduction to class, syllabus, syllabus quiz, introduction discussion board Feb 4
Weeks 3 & 4 Feb 3-7, Feb 10-14 Review prior coding knowledge, self-assess, and identify learning gaps Feb 18
Weeks 5 & 6 Feb 17-21, Feb 24-28 Chapters 1-3: Coding in the Real World, Medical Coding Software, Physician Office Coding Concepts Feb 25
Week 7 Mar 3-7 Chapters 4-6: Physician Office Practicum, Emergency Dept Coding Concepts, Emergency Dept Practicum Mar 18
Spring Break Mar 10-14 No Class: Spring Break  
Weeks 8 & 9 Mar 17-21, Mar 24-28 EXAM; Chapters 7-8: Ancillary Services Coding Concepts, Ancillary Services Practicum Apr 1
Weeks 10 & 11 Mar 31-Apr 4, Apr 7-11 Chapters 9-10: Ambulatory Surgery Coding Concepts, Ambulatory Surgery Practicum Apr 15
Weeks 12 & 13 Apr 14-18, Apr 21-25 Chapters 11-12: Hospital Inpatient Coding Concepts, Hospital Inpatient Practicum Apr 29
Week 14 Apr 28-May 2 Chapter 13: Medical Auditing May 6
Weeks 15 & 16 May 5-15 Exam & Final Exam (Comprehensive) May 13

Note: All assignments are due Tuesdays by 11 a.m.


Other Important Dates

  • Jan 21: First Class Day
  • Jan 23: Apply for May 23 graduation begins
  • Feb 11: Census Date
  • Feb 24: Last day to drop/withdraw without penalty
  • Apr 1: Summer & Fall registration begins
  • Apr 17: Final day to drop with penalty, apply for graduation, and pay for diploma, cap, and gown
  • Apr 18: Good Friday
  • Apr 28: Applications for May graduates begin
  • May 15: Final grades due in LSCPA system by 4 p.m.

Course Expectations & Guidelines

  • Monitor Course Communication:
    Check announcements, emails, and course content multiple times per week to stay informed.

  • Stay Organized:
    Use the course calendar, announcements, and To-Do List to track assignments and deadlines. Work ahead if possible.

  • Changes May Occur:
    Assignments and due dates may change during the semester. Stay active in the course and check for updates.

  • Use Blackboard Links:
    Complete assignments through Blackboard links. Do not access publisher platforms unless instructed.

  • Submit Work On Time:
    Turn in all assignments by the posted due dates. Refer to the Late Work Policy for details.

Final Exam Date May 6, 2025 - 8:00 AM   Through  May 13, 2025 - 11:00 AM
Grading Scale
Determination of
Final Grade
Assignments/Quizzes/Participation 50%
Exams 50%
Course Policies
Instructor Policies

Assessment Methods & Grading Policy

  • Grade Tracking: Students are responsible for keeping a record of their grades. Grades can be viewed in the Blackboard gradebook after assignments are completed and graded.
    Note: The instructor will not average grades for students.
  • Assignment Adjustments: The instructor reserves the right to add or change assignments during the semester.
  • Grade Drops: The instructor will not drop any grades.
  • Assessment Methods: Learning is assessed through various means, including assignments, quizzes, discussions, labs, participation, exams, or other methods. Some course activities may enhance learning but are not graded.
  • Due Dates: Weekly due dates are posted in the course schedule.
  • Instructions and Grading: Detailed instructions and grading criteria are provided for each assignment.

Class Participation

  • Participation Requirement: Active participation is required and directly impacts your course average. Logging in and clicking around is not enough.
    • Weekly attendance and activity within the course may count as a participation grade.
  • New Assignments: Additional assignments may be added during the week if deemed necessary by the instructor.
  • Check Announcements: Students must check announcements and emails at least three times per week.

Video Access REQUIRED for Virtual Classes or Meetings. 

Video access is mandatory during virtual classes or meetings.

  • The instructor must be able to see your face throughout the session to ensure engagement and participation.
  • Active interactions are required to foster a collaborative and professional learning environment.
  • Having video access ensures active participation, engagement, and effective communication.
  • It allows the instructor to verify attendance and maintains a professional learning atmosphere.

Assignments

  • No Make-Up Assignments: Assignments not submitted by the due date and time will receive a grade of zero (0). The instructor will not grade late assignments.

Quizzes

  • No Make-Up Quizzes: Quizzes may be given weekly. Missing a quiz will result in a grade of zero (0). Quizzes cannot be made up once they close.

Exams

  • No Make-Up Exams: Missing an exam will result in a grade of zero (0). At the end of the semester, the instructor will average all exam grades (including zeros) to replace the missed exam.

Example:
Test grades: 100, 100, 0, 80
Total: 280 ÷ 4 = 70 (the averaged grade will replace the zero).
Final grades: 100, 100, 70, 80

  • Final Exam Exemption: Students with an average of 80 or better and who have passed all other exams may be exempt from the final exam. The average of all previous exam grades will serve as the final exam grade.
  • Academic Dishonesty:
    • First offense: Zero on the exam or academic work in question.
    • Second offense: Grade of "F" for the course.
Work Ahead: If coursework is available, students are encouraged to complete assignments ahead of the scheduled due dates.
Attendance Policy

 

Class Participation and Attendance Policy

  • Research indicates a clear cause-and-effect relationship between attendance and college success. Based on this, the instructor monitors student course activity on a weekly basis.

  • Students are required to log in to Blackboard, check email, and review announcements at least three times per week, even if they believe all work is complete.

  • Active participation is mandatory and directly impacts your course average. Simply logging in and clicking around is not sufficient.

    • Additional assignments may be added during the week if deemed necessary by the instructor.
    • Attendance (course activity) may count as a weekly participation grade.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to contact the instructor via email regarding any absences. Absences do not grant extensions for coursework or due dates.

Additional Information

Course Information and Policies

MYLSCPA Username & Password Issues

For assistance, contact Kenneth Lisby at (409) 984-6150.

Blackboard Help (Available 24/7)

Phone: (936) 496-5379
Email: bbhelp@lamarpa.edu

Laptop Loan Program

LSCPA offers a laptop loan program for students in need.

  • This is a first-come, first-served program.
  • To apply, visit the LSCPA website and search "Laptop loan program" in the search bar.

Device Requirements

This course is designed to be completed on a laptop or desktop computer. Using a mobile device may lead to missed vital information or assignments.

  • Computers are available in the LSCPA computer lab (student ID required).

ImportantComputer failure or lack of Internet access is not an acceptable excuse for missed assignments, projects, quizzes, or exams.

  • Students are encouraged to use campus resources if needed.

Software and Internet Access

Students must have all required course materials, including necessary software, e-books, and key codes. Reliable Internet access is mandatory for all online courses. If Internet access is unreliable, students can use the LSCPA open computer lab.

Methods of Presentation

This course may include various presentation methods, such as:

  • Lecture: PowerPoint slides, interactive notes, video, or audio sources.
  • Computer-Assisted Learning: Blackboard, publisher websites, and other platforms.
  • Lab Exercises and Discussion Boards: Hands-on and interactive assignments.
  • Internet Resources: Supplemental materials to enhance learning.

Drop/Withdrawal Policy

  • Students must verify drops/withdrawals are submitted before the final withdrawal date.
  • Retain a copy of the drop/withdrawal form for your records.
  • Return any department-owned books or equipment; failure to do so may impact your standing with LSCPA.
  • Texas law limits students to six course withdrawals at public colleges and universities (with some exceptions). Withdrawals after the penalty-free date will count toward this limit.
  • Consult the LSCPA catalog for full details and refer to the academic calendar for important dates.

E-Mail/Voice Mail Etiquette

  • Use proper email etiquette, including complete sentences and a full subject line with your namecourse name, and section number.
  • Voice mail messages should clearly state your namecourse, and return phone number.

Dress for Success

Students may wear casual clothing that respects the classroom environment. This includes any virtual classes and virtual meetings.

  • Clothing that exposes intimate parts, underclothing, sleepwear, or items with inappropriate logos or text is not allowed.
  • Students dressed inappropriately may be asked to leave, and this will count as an absence.

Examples of inappropriate attire:

  • Sports bras or boxers without outerwear.
  • Pajamas, robes, or slippers.
  • Clothing that is too tight, too loose, or distracting.

 

Exceptions and Changes

The instructor reserves the right to make changes or exceptions to the syllabus at their discretion.


Institutional Policies
MyLSCPA Be sure to check your campus email and Course Homepage using MyLSCPA campus web portal. You can also access your grades, transcripts, academic advisors, degree progress, and other services through MyLSCPA.
Academic Honesty Academic honesty is expected from all students, and dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Please consult the LSCPA policies (Academic Dishonesty section in the Student Handbook) for consequences of academic dishonesty.
ADA Considerations The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Disability Services Coordinator, Room 117, in the Student Sucess Center. The phone number is (409) 984-6241.
COVID 19 Information The Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA) Student Code of Conduct COVID 19 Policy requires students who have been diagnosed with COVID 19 to report their condition directly to their local health department. Students should also contact their course faculty to report their quarantine status. In addition, this policy requires all students to wear face coverings when directly exposed to COVID 19 in compliance with the criteria included in the policy. For more information please refer to the COVID 19 link on the LSCPA website.
Facility Policies No food or tobacco products are allowed in the classroom. Only students enrolled in the course are allowed in the classroom, except by special instructor permission. Use of electronic devices is prohibited.
HB 2504 This syllabus is part of LSCPA's efforts to comply with Texas House Bill 2504.
Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect As per Texas law and LSCPA policy, all LSCPA employees, including faculty, are required to report allegations or disclosures of child abuse or neglect to the designated authorities, which may include a local or state law enforcement agency or the Texas Department of Family Protective Services. For more information about mandatory reporting requirements, see LSCPA's Policy and Procedure Manual.
Title IX and Sexual Misconduct LSCPA is committed to establishing and maintaining an environment that is free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, sexual violence, and other forms of sexual misconduct. All LSCPA employees, including faculty, have the responsibility to report disclosures of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault (including rape and acquaintance rape), domestic violence, dating violence, relationship violence, or stalking, to LSCPA's Title IX Coordinator, whose role is to coordinate the college's response to sexual misconduct. For more information about Title IX protections, faculty reporting responsibilities, options for confidential reporting, and the resources available for support visit LSCPA's Title IX website.
Clery Act Crime Reporting For more information about the Clery Act and crime reporting, see the Annual Security & Fire Safety Report and the Campus Security website.

Grievance / Complaint / Concern If you have a grievance, complaint, or concern about this course that has not been resolved through discussion with the Instructor, please consult the Department Chair.
Department Information
Business and Industrial Technology
Chair:Sheila Guillot
Email:guillsr@lamarpa.edu
Phone:(409) 984-6381