The medical coding and billing field is one of the fastest-growing careers in the United States. If you are looking for a career that is in high demand, then this may be the right choice for you.
In this blog post, we will discuss what medical coding and billing is, and some of the pros and cons of entering this career field. We will also provide tips on how to determine if this is the right career for you!
What is medical billing and coding?
Medical billing and coding is the process of translating medical procedures and diagnoses into code numbers. These codes are then used to submit insurance claims and get reimbursement from insurance companies.
The codes are also used to keep track of patient records and for research purposes. Medical coding and billing specialists use classification systems to assign these code numbers.
Classification systems used in medical coding and billing include the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT).
What are the pros and cons of a career in medical billing and coding?
There are both pros and cons to consider when deciding if a career in medical billing and coding is right for you.
Pros:
- Medical billing and coding specialists are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of medical records and health information technicians will grow by 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
- The average wage for medical billing and coding specialists was $40,350 in May 2017.
- Most medical billing and coding specialists work full-time in an office setting.
- Medical billing and coding specialists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies.
- Specialists can often find work remotely, meaning they have more flexibility in terms of where they work.
- Medical billing and coding is a detail-oriented job, and specialists need to be comfortable working with numbers and computers.
- The job can be stressful at times, particularly when dealing with deadlines.
- If you choose to work freelance, you may have to deal with irregular income.
If you’re detail-oriented, comfortable with computers, and interested in the healthcare field, medical billing and coding could be a good career choice for you.
How to determine if medical coding and billing is right for you?
When it comes to choosing a new career, there are lots of factors to consider.
The medical billing and coding field is growing rapidly, which means there are plenty of job opportunities available.
If you’re detail-oriented, comfortable with computers, and interested in the healthcare field, medical billing and coding could be a good career choice for you.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding if this is the right career path for you:
- Do you have an interest in the healthcare industry?
- Are you detail-oriented?
- Are you good with computers?
- Do you work well under pressure?
- Can you handle deadlines?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then a career in medical billing and coding could be a good fit for you.’
Starting your new career
The first step to starting a career in medical billing and coding is to get the proper education. Most employers require at least a certificate or associate’s degree in medical billing and coding. You can find programs at many community colleges, technical schools, and even some online schools. Here at NCC, we offer a medical billing and coding program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. Once you have your education, the next step is to find a job.
Many employers are now looking for applicants who are certified by the AAPC or AHIMA. The AAPC offers the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential, while the AHIMA offers the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential.
Having one of these credentials will give you a leg up on the competition and show potential employers that you are serious about your career.
To find out more about our medical billing and coding program, or any of our other programs, contact us today. We’d be happy to answer any of your questions.
Become a vital part of the healthcare cycle
Taken together, medical coding and billing form a link between patients, healthcare providers, and insurance companies. As a medical biller or coder, you’ll need to be accurate, detail-oriented, and well organized as you’ll be a vital part of any healthcare provider’s staff.
As one of the premier Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Las Vegas, Northwest Career College employs established, seasoned instructors to teach you every aspect of medical billing and coding.
Our student-focused approach puts you first, and we offer online and on-campus workshops to accommodate your work and family schedule.
We continue to support our students after they graduate as our experienced Career Services team works with you to help you find medical billing and coding jobs in Las Vegas. Call us today on (702) 403-1592 to learn more about the exciting opportunities that our Medical Billing and Coding School can offer you!
Original source can be found here.
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