I am not working in a clinical coding department but wish to train as a clinical coder and would like to attend the foundation course, what would you advise?

If you are applying as a non-NHS coder, there are certain conditions you will be liable for if you wish to attend the Clinical Coding Foundation Course. This includes paying course fees, any associated travel and accommodation fees, have purchased all the necessary classification books (the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10 Volumes 1, 2 and 3 - NOT the Second Edition) for diagnostic recording, and the current version of OPCS Classification of Interventions and Procedures Version Volumes I and II) and can attend all days of the Clinical Coding Foundation Course.

Our register of approved trainers and the clinical coding academies deliver our national standard training materials.

Where does the feedback from the courses come from?

The Record of Assessment feedback sheet for both the 18-day Clinical Coding Foundation Course and the four day Clinical Coding Refresher Course is sent to the delegate and their line manager directly by the course tutor within two to three weeks of the end of the course.

This applies to all courses provided by Approved Trainers who use NHS Classifications Service national standard training materials. This is in accordance with requirements in the Trainer Instruction Booklets for these two courses.

How do delegates received confirmation they are booked on the trainer and auditor programme?

Delegates are confirmed on the programme only once they have provided full invoicing details for each course booked. Until this crucial information is received their booking can only be considered as provisional. This could mean there is a risk of losing one's place as the programmes are popular. Confirmation is then sent to the named person on the booking form, which is usually the delegate. We ask that delegates forward this information to their managers as many wish to know the progress of the booking.

What information can I expect when applying to join the programmes?

We will confirm the application has been received once final payment has been received. Final course joining details will be issued two to three weeks prior to the course. You may wish to look at the course details for information on course location and for booking accomodation. Please quote the NHS when making your bookings.

Why has the NHS Classifications Service reduced the delivery of workshops?

We provide all the necessary resources for clinical coding trainers to deliver clinical coding courses and need to spend time developing materials. WIth over 100 approved trainers trained by us to deliver our national standard training materials and the clincial coding academies offering courses regionally the NHS clinical coder has access to a variety of training options.

I would like to attend a workshop so how can I find a course now that you are not offering one?

Specialty workshop training in the areas of Obstetrics, Circulatory & Vascular and Orthopaedics can be obtained from any  Experienced Clinical Coding Trainer. A list of trainers can be found on our website. The clinical coding academies also offer courses using national training materials.