Is Medical Billing and Coding Right for Me

Medical billers are in charge of auditing and submitting bills for reimbursement from the insurance companies. They work with special medical billing software where the patient’s record and diagnosis are described precisely through medical codes. A major responsibility of medical billing specialists is to maintain the communication between the facility and the relevant third parties like insurance companies.  

What Do Medical Coders Do?

Unlike medical billers, the job of medical coders is primarily administrative and even more precise. They carefully check medical records and physicians' notes to document the diagnosis and treatment of patients correctly. Each performed procedure and service needs to be recorded under the relevant code. Making an error can cost the facility a lot of money which makes the job of medical coding specialists a very important one.

The Skills You Need for a Career in Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding experts must be very detail-oriented. They need to accurately record and interpret information in order to ensure that all processes and claims are running smoothly. 

Some other qualities essential for the medical biller and coder's job are having a professional approach to patients, good communication skills, and of course, keeping confidentiality. Last but not least, medical billers and coders are expected to have sufficient knowledge of the relevant software that the organization or physician practice has adopted. This maximizes productivity and prevents making common errors. 

Requirements for Entry Level Medical Billing and Coding Jobs  

To become a medical billing or coding expert, you need to know and meet the entry-level job requirements. Most employers would expect you to have completed a postsecondary certificate program or an associate degree to enter the occupation. Certification is not compulsory but often required, so it is worth obtaining one upon completion of your professional training.

Medical Billing and Coding Training

Training in medical billing and coding would suit people of all ages and backgrounds. Among its many advantages are a flexible schedule and its short duration. This makes the relevant courses ideal for people going through a career switch and those who need to combine their studies with work. What’s more, the minimum admission requirements for most programs only include a high school diploma and a passing score on an entrance exam. This means you don’t need to have any previous experience or educational background in the healthcare field to become a medical biller or coder.

Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Although a medical billing and coding certification is not always required, becoming certified will increase your chances of receiving recognition and achieving professional growth within your organization. Additionally, having a certification will help you stand out among other non-certified candidates when applying for the same job. 

Medical Billing and Coding Salary Levels

Pursuing a career in medical billing and coding in the US is a great choice since it is both financially rewarding and secure. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a median annual wage of $42,630 as of May 2019. 

Of course, this figure varies across different states. For example, the 2019 average annual medical billing and coding salary in NJ was $48,520. In comparison, wages in Ohio and Louisiana were respectively $41,670 and $34,140.

The Pros and Cons of a Medical Billing and Coding Career

Medical Billing and Coding Job Growth

The field of medical billing and coding has undergone major transformations over the past decades. It is due to the ever-increasing demand and technological innovations coming into play. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects growth of 8% within the field between now and 2029, which means this trend will continue. Everyone employed in this dynamic field will be required to quickly adapt to the ongoing changes, new software technologies, and new practices.

Medical Billing and Coding Requires Responsibility

The job of a medical billers or medical coder is a very responsible one. Knowing coding systems perfectly and keeping on top of technical updates are among the most common related challenges medical billers and coders are facing.

Unfortunately, technology is not always capable of preventing common mistakes. So, specialists need to pay extra attention to detail and be very precise and knowledgeable in order to prevent costly medical billing errors.  

Medical Billers and Coders Can Work from Home