Medical Coding Specialist instructor champions acceptance/inclusion of all neurotypes
Adrienne Zarn, CPC, CANPC, CPC-I, 64, serves as faculty in the Medical Coding Specialist program at Dakota County Technical College (DCTC). In 2023, Adrienne represented DCTC as a Minnesota State Board of Trustees Outstanding Educator. She started teaching at DCTC in August 2018.
Adrienne Zarn
Adrienne earned her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education with a Minor in Special Education, cum laude, from the University of Idaho in 1984. She is an American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder and an AAPC Certified Anesthesia and Pain Management Coder. She became an AAPC Approved Instructor (CPC-I) in 2022.
On Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Adrienne courageously shared her personal journey with neurodiversity and living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) during a Neurodiversity Celebration Week (NDCW) 2025 session on the DCTC campus.
Participants in her session explored the Neurodiversity Paradigm, which champions the acceptance and inclusion of all neurotypes—both neurotypical and neurodivergent. This paradigm represents a vital movement in promoting equity and inclusion. During the session, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) criteria for ADHD and autism were also discussed.
“I highlighted how the medical coding instructors have united to enhance class design and implement policies that support both neurodivergent and neurotypical students, fostering a more inclusive and effective learning environment,” Adrienne reported. “I have been invited to speak about Neurodiversity at the AAPC regional conference this November. I will shed light on the importance of the Neurodiversity Paradigm, exploring its significance in fostering inclusion and equity in both educational and professional settings. This opportunity highlights my dedication to creating inclusive learning environments and advocating for all neurotypes within the medical coding industry.”
Adrienne’s NDCW 2025 session gallery
Learn more about Neurodiversity Celebration Week (NDCW) 2025 by reading the DCTC News story.
Adrienne Zarn: Faculty perspective on neurodiversity
Adrienne Zarn
“I am a member of the DCTC Neurodiversity Employee Resource Group (ERG). The courage and support of founder, Anna Voight, and other members of the team encourages me to embrace my own neurodiversity and even celebrate it!
“The clinical term for my medical diagnosis is classified in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual National Classification of Diseases 10th Revision, is found under the category of behavioral and emotional disorders with onset occurring in childhood and adolescence. My specific diagnosis is medical code F90.0 Attention-deficit hyperactive disorder, predominately inattentive type,
“Categorizing and naming neurodiverse conditions may be necessary from a payer’s perspective for medical necessity: however, it is harmful if we judge ourselves and others through the lens of a label. Ironically, one of the strengths of my neurodiversity is that I have a superpower to hyper-focus when I am interested in a topic. One would not know that by the label of ADHD, predominately inattentive type. This superpower helped me graduate from college, and work in the field of medical coding.
“I take joy in the fact that for the first time in my adult life, I am in a work group in which I feel psychologically safe in sharing my neurodiverse journey and in learning how to help neurodiverse students excel. It is an exciting venture!”
Adrienne Zarn: Teaching philosophy
“Teaching is not just a profession for me—it is an integral part of who I am, woven into the very fabric of my being. My passion, motivation, and unwavering desire to make a positive difference in the lives of my students drive every aspect of my work. I am committed to creating an environment where students feel included, empowered, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. Guiding them on their journey toward success is both a privilege and a profound source of fulfillment for me.”
Adrienne Zarn, CPC, CANPC, CPC-I
Medical Coding Specialist Faculty
Minnesota State BOT 2023 Outstanding Educator
Dakota County Technical College
Adrienne’s career experience
In her own words…
“I began my professional journey at the age of 15, working as a car hop at A&W in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. It was a role I cherished, as it not only gave me my first taste of responsibility but also instilled invaluable skills, such as accurately counting back change. At 18, I took on a position in medical records at a Family Medicine Clinic. This small office required me to wear many hats, including covering the front desk and assisting with collections. It was here that my passion for medicine was ignited.
“Determined to pursue higher education, I funded my college experience through a combination of work, grants, and loans. Throughout those years, I balanced working in medical clinics and waitressing. My time as a waitress taught me the importance of kindness and generosity, particularly toward those in service roles—a lesson that continues to shape me today.
Adrienne, Dan, Pookie, and Flower
“I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education with a minor in Special Education, a foundation that started my lifelong passion for teaching. While in college, I made the best decision of my life—marrying my husband, Dan. In June 2025, we will joyfully celebrate 44 years of marriage. During Dan’s service in the U.S. Navy, we were stationed in Bremerton, Washington. It was there that I had the privilege of teaching fourth grade in Silverdale and Seabeck for five wonderful years.
“In 1990, my husband Dan and I moved to his hometown of Lakeville, Minnesota. I joined Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, where I worked until 1995 before being recruited as a medical consultant. In 1998, I earned certification as a Certified Medical Coder, which opened the door to an exciting chapter in my career. I had the privilege of traveling to teaching hospitals across the United States, training Teaching Physicians and their residents on new medical coding documentation rules.
“In 1998, I launched a small medical consulting firm, combining my expertise with a passion for education. Through a partnership with Cross County University, I traveled extensively, teaching physical and occupational therapists, nurses, and mental health providers the essential documentation and coding guidelines needed to support their practice.
“On September 11, 2001, as the World Trade Center collapsed, I found myself stranded in Raleigh, North Carolina, a banking hub where flights were delayed longer than elsewhere. It was a deeply unsettling time, yet a moment of immense gratitude arose when my husband, Dan, my son, CR, and my brother-in-law, Jerry, drove out to bring me home. That experience profoundly shaped my outlook, leading me to reevaluate my priorities. I chose to step away from traveling and entrusted my company to the vice president, closing that chapter of my career to focus on what mattered most.
(back row) siblings Laura, Robert, Sandy (front row) CR and Adrienne
“I was a compliance officer then a fraud investigator before landing a position at West Health Ambulatory Surgery Center as a health information and medical coding manager. I enjoyed this position for seven years. I then joined an Anesthesia Billing Company as the medical coding manager.
In 2012, I was recruited to join McManis and Associates Consulting, marking an exciting new chapter in my career. In this role, I resumed traveling, working as a project manager and medical consultant. My work took me to Indian Health Hospitals and Tribal Hospitals in Oklahoma and New Mexico, where I contributed my expertise to support healthcare systems in these communities.
“In 2018, I embarked on the most exciting chapter in my career, teaching at Dakota County Technical College. As the main medical coding instructor and faculty advisor for the Medical Coding Specialist program, this role perfectly ties together all of my prior experience. I thoroughly enjoy preparing college students for successful careers in the medical coding industry.
“Recognizing market demand, I transitioned the Medical Coding Specialist program online in 2019, making it more accessible to a broader audience. In 2022, I became an AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) Approved Instructor (CPC-I), which allowed us to incorporate AAPC materials and branding into the DCTC medical coding program.
“I updated and enhanced the curriculum while collaborating with an exceptional team of co-teachers, including Susan Johanson, Jeff Roseland, Pam Johnston, and Suzanna Evans, each of whom brings expertise and passion to their respective fields. These collective efforts have resulted in doubling our enrollment.”
More about Adrienne…
Adrienne and Dan
Originally from Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, Adrienne graduated from Coeur d’ Alene High School, Class of 1978. She and her husband, Dan, will be celebrating their 44th wedding anniversary this year.
“When I married him, Dan was an Idaho mountain man at heart,” Adrienne said. “He was a U.S. Forest Service firefighter in the summers, jumping into hot spots from a helicopter. We spent our honeymoon in the rustic charm of the Bonanza Guard Station, nestled up the Yankee Fork River in Southern Idaho. That summer, we shared our adventure with Blue, a loyal lab belonging to our river-rafter friend, making the season unforgettable.”
Adrienne and Dan have a 44-year-old son, CR, who is neurodivergent and brings so much joy to their lives.
“CR lives with us and recently rescued a lovable pit bull named Rambo, who has quickly become part of our family,” Adrienne said. “Together with our two adventurous Boston terriers, Pookie and Flower, we now have a lively pack of three that fills our home with energy and love.”
In her free time, Adrienne enjoys immersing herself in the intrigue of murder mysteries, whether through books or videos. One of her most fulfilling hobbies is raising monarch butterflies—from nurturing their eggs, guiding them through the pupae stage, to the joyous moment of releasing them once they hatch.
“I also love listening to books on Audible, which allows me to explore new worlds and ideas,” she said. ‘Additionally, I find inspiration and spiritual growth by using the Ascension app, deepening my faith in God and Jesus Christ as my Savior.”
Adrienne, Dan, CR, Pookie, Flower, and Rambo reside in Lakeville, Minnesota.
Adrienne life and family gallery
Adrienne Zarn • Q & A
Adrienne Zarn
What motivated you to pursue a career in the medical coding field?
I am deeply passionate about supporting both doctors and patients, creating a bridge that fosters better care and outcomes. I also take great satisfaction in contributing to the healthcare revenue stream, ensuring the system runs smoothly and efficiently for everyone involved.
What inspired you to start teaching in the Medical Coding Specialist program at DCTC?
I had the privilege of speaking at the Minneapolis AAPC chapter, where I shared my expertise with industry professionals. Around the same time, Candace, the previous coding instructor, invited me to speak to her class about anesthesia coding. It was during that experience that I expressed my desire to teach—a moment that marked the beginning of my journey into higher education.
Three words that describe you as a professional coding instructor:
SKILLED. PASSIONATE. APPROACHABLE.
What do you enjoy most about teaching college students?
I am continually inspired by the thoughtful questions and critical thinking skills my students demonstrate while working through medical coding cases. What excites me most is seeing their hard work pay off—healthcare employers consistently hire our students right after graduation.
Our graduates have secured positions with renowned organizations such as SFM Workers Compensation, Allina, M Health, Park Nicollet, Summit Orthopedics, and many others, making a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry.
What advice would you give future college students thinking about pursuing careers in the medical coding industry?
If you have a passion for medicine and enjoy critical thinking and problem-solving, medical coding offers an excellent career path. It’s a field that blends analytical skills with healthcare knowledge, allowing you to make a meaningful impact behind the scenes of patient care. This career not only provides stability and growth opportunities, but also the satisfaction of being an essential part of the healthcare system. It’s a perfect match for those who love tackling challenges and contributing to the efficiency of medical services.
What are the most important traits individuals require to be successful as medical coding specialists?
Medical coding truly exemplifies the importance of precision. It’s a field where attention to detail is paramount, as the accuracy of coding directly impacts patient care, billing, and compliance.
For those who thrive on meticulous work, this career is deeply rewarding. By prioritizing accuracy, speed and efficiency naturally develop over time, making this profession ideal for individuals who excel in focus and diligence. It’s a role that requires both discipline and an appreciation for the fine details that keep the healthcare system running smoothly.
Three words that describe you as a neurodiverse individual:
OVERCOMER. OBSTINATE. ACCOMPLISHED.
What do you see as the most significant technological advances on the medical coding horizon?
Medical coders today engage with advanced technology, including electronic medical records, medical coding barcoding systems, and computer-assisted coding tools. As AI continues to revolutionize the field, it is now capable of handling many routine coding tasks, increasing efficiency and accuracy.
This transformation has started and as it grows it paves the way for coders to explore new opportunities, such as transitioning into auditing, clinical documentation improvement, education, and earning specialty certifications. These evolving roles allow coders to leverage their expertise in innovative ways, further enriching the healthcare landscape.
What person(s) has influenced your life the most and why?
My mother, Jeanette, instilled in me a deep faith and unwavering trust in Christ. Her guidance and example have shaped the foundation of my beliefs. I wholeheartedly believe that God has a hand in my life, and I am profoundly grateful for the countless opportunities and blessings He has provided along the way.
If you could make one thing happen on Earth right now, what would it be?
If I could change one thing on Earth, it would be to help people truly understand and embrace the gift of free will from God. Free will is a profound blessing, offering us the freedom to make choices and shape our paths, yet it can also feel like a burden when those choices come with challenges and consequences. Recognizing the depth of this gift and using it wisely has the potential to bring greater understanding, compassion, and purpose to our lives.
One word that best describes your experience at DCTC:
PROFOUND
Adrienne Zarn • 12 Answers
- Favorite sport or physical activity: Walking with dogs, playing outdoor games
Place you would most like to visit: I would love to take my husband on a drive through the Washington Palouse from Northern Idaho to Walla Walla, Washington, where my sisters live. The rolling hills and landscapes of the Palouse are very beautiful. Walla Walla’s charm, rich history, and small town atmosphere would make our visit very enjoyable.- Most exciting thing you’ve ever done: In 1982, Dan, Blue (our dog), and I hiked to a remote fire lookout to assist a student during her internship. It was an adventure, navigating the wilderness and teaching her essential skills—like using a Coleman gas stove and hauling water up to the tower, which required a challenging one-mile hike downhill and back up with water strapped to her back.
Looking back, we realized this experience revealed a deeper issue of discrimination. The student, a young Black woman, was placed in a role where she wasn’t properly supported or set up for success. It felt like an intentional move to make her fail. This realization turned what seemed like a simple, exciting adventure into a meaningful lesson on equity and the challenges some face in systems not designed for their success. - Three things you would do if you won a $1 billion lottery: 1) Not tell anyone 2) Hire a vested consultant/money manager 3) Buy nice homes, help family, and give to reputable charities
- Best book or movie you’ve read or seen lately: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown, PhD, MSW
- Time period you would explore if you could time travel: I would love to experience the Victorian Era of the 19th century to immerse myself in the exquisite clothing styles and intricate jewelry of the time.
- One thing you most want to accomplish in life: Move with my nuclear family to Walla Walla, Washington, to live close to my extended family.
Your national bird if you were your own country: I would choose the peacock, India’s national bird—this bird reflects beauty, grace, and cultural richness.- Dream occupation: Clinical nurse specialist or physician assistant
- Person you would most like to meet: I would like to go back in time and meet Theodore Roosevelt.
- Skill you would most like to learn and master: I aspire to sing beautifully and improve my vocal skill.
- Most important issue or problem facing humankind: The further development of artificial intelligence poses a significant challenge for humanity, as it introduces complex ethical, societal, and technological issues that demand thoughtful consideration and responsible management. Additionally, there is a risk that AI could be exploited for nefarious purposes, making it crucial to establish safeguards and promote its use for the betterment of society.
Learn more about the Medical Coding Specialist program at DCTC by contacting:
Admissions
admissions@dctc.edu
651-423-8266
Room 2-110
Learn more about the Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group (ERG) at DCTC by contacting:
Anna Voight
Campus Merger Coordinator
Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group (ERG) Chair
Dakota County Technical College
anna.voight@dctc.edu
Erin Manthey
Mathematics Faculty
Neurodiverse Employee Resource Group Vice Chair
Unified Club Co-Advisor
Dakota County Technical College
erin.manthey@dctc.edu
More about the Medical Coding Specialist program…
Medical Coding Specialist A.A.S. degree: 60 credits
This Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree prepares you for an entry-level, professional fee medical coding position while also equipping you with the skills required to advance within the healthcare system. These positions are often offered by physician and non-physician practitioner clinics, acute-care hospitals, third-party payers, or consulting firms with a need for a medical coder.
You will acquire a working knowledge of healthcare law and a full understanding of the need to protect patient privacy. Our program utilizes a simulated electronic health record designed with industry standards, an approach that facilitates practice in abstracting patient information.
After completing the A.A.S. degree, you will be able to code both procedure and diagnosis and are ready to take the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder examination, which is proctored at DCTC. You will have the leadership knowledge and the communication skills necessary for leadership positions.
Delivery: Online asynchronous
Start: Fall or spring semester; full-time or part-time
Medical Coding Specialist diploma: 39 credits
This diploma prepares you for an entry-level, professional fee medical coding position. These positions are often offered by physician and non-physician practitioner clinics, acute-care hospitals, or third-party payers. You will develop a working knowledge of healthcare law and have a full understanding of the need to protect patient privacy. Our program utilizes a simulated electronic health record designed with industry standards which facilitates practice in abstracting patient information.
After completing the diploma, you will be able to code both procedure and diagnosis and are ready to take the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder examination.
Delivery: Online asynchronous
Start: Fall or spring semester; full-time or part-time
Medical Coding Specialist certificate: 13 credits
This certificate is designed for healthcare employees who have experience in the medical coding revenue cycle and wish to gain enough knowledge and practice in coding to sit for the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam. This program is designed as well for employers who would like to have employees become certified coders and will provide funding for this education as part of a Corporate Compliance Program or employee benefits.
Students will receive a discount through the AAPC for AAPC exam costs and membership.
Delivery: Online asynchronous
Start: Fall or spring semester; full-time or part-timeMedical Coding Specialist Datasheet
Medical Records Specialists
Compile, process, and maintain medical records of hospital and clinic patients in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements of the healthcare system. Classify medical and healthcare concepts, including diagnosis, procedures, medical services, and equipment, into the healthcare industry’s numerical coding system. Includes medical coders.
Medical Records Specialist is a Bright Outlook Occupation. 🌞
Reported job titles
- Coder
- Health Information Clerk
- Health Information Specialist
- Health Information Technician (Health Information Tech)
- Medical Records Clerk
- Medical Records Coordinator
- Medical Records Technician (Medical Records Tech)
- Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
- Medical Coding Specialist
- Clinical Documentation Specialist
- Health Information Analyst
- Coding Analyst
- Medical Records Technician
WAGES
Minnesota
Workers on average earn $60,570
10 percent of workers earn $45,740 or less
10 percent of workers earn $76,140 or moreUnited States
Workers on average earn $48,780
10 percent of workers earn $35,080 or less
10 percent of workers earn $77,810 or more2023 Wage Data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Occupational Trends: Minnesota
Employment(2020): 5,940 employees employees
Projected employment (2030): 6,220 employees
Projected growth (2020–2030): 5%
Projected annual job openings (2020–2030): 460Occupational Trends: United States
Employment (2023): 191,500 employees
Projected employment (2033): 208,200 employees
Projected growth (2023–2033): 9 %: Much faster than average
Projected annual job openings(2023–2033): 15,000Visit O*NET OnLine for comprehensive information about the occupation:
Medical Records SpecialistsSOURCE: O*NET OnLine: Medical Records Specialists
