Student Spotlight: Lisa Reed - From flowers to medical coding
by Jessica Degnan |
School of Allied Health student Lisa Reed is no stranger to hard work or reinvention. After three decades as a floral manager in Anchorage, the lifelong 麻豆无码版n decided to pursue a new path and is now earning her Occupational Endorsement Certificate in medical coding 鈥� a field she describes as a fascinating puzzle. Now working toward her certification, Reed is combining her strong work ethic, attention to detail and determination to achieve her goals and inspire others along the way.
Name: Lisa Reed
Major: Medical Coding
Anticipated graduation date: 2025
Unit: School of Allied Health
Hometown: Anchorage
What brought you to the UAA College of Health?:
I am a lifelong 麻豆无码版n, born and raised. I wanted to pursue a career in Medical Coding while also supporting my local college.
Why did you choose the degree you are pursuing? What would your dream job be?:
After 30 years of being a Floral Manager for Carrs/Safeway, I wanted to pursue a career in something that gave me the opportunity to eventually work from home. Medical Coding was one of the prospects I kept hearing about and it has actually been fascinating to me. I look at it like a very detailed puzzle I have to solve.
Have you been involved with internships, practicum placements, research, study abroad, or any other experience you鈥檇 like to tell us about? Please tell us how these experiences have shaped you personally, academically, and professionally.:
Being in a management position for a corporation taught me many valuable lessons over the years. Among some of these attributes, I learned how to maximize earnings, the value of teamwork and leadership, attention to detail, and strong work ethic, being just a few. All of which will serve me well in my pursuit of a Medical Coding career.
What words of wisdom do you have for underclassmen or youth who are still considering their options after high school?:
I knew that if I wanted to pass the CPC Exam (Certified Professional Coder), without waiting the two years the AAPC suggests before testing (for practical experience in the field), I had to take matters into my own hands. I took the six classes for the Medical Coding Certificate that UAA provides, but I also did a few more things. I went through the entire CPT coding manual, page by page, highlighting all main procedures, underlining key terms, and googling and writing notes in my book on every word or procedure I didn鈥檛 know, which was most everything. I watched video after video on YouTube for more explanations and information on both the CPT procedural coding manual and the ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding manual guidelines and conventions, and had an earbud in my ear all day long at work so all I heard were conventions, word parts, and anatomy. Where there is determination there will be success.
What is your secret to college success?:
My secret to college success is if you want it, go above and beyond to get it, even when you feel like you are overwhelmed and drowning. Nothing is bigger than you are. Which is why my favorite quote is, 鈥淗ow do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time鈥�.
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