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Medical coding and billing is often touted as a high-demand career choice for those interested in the medical field. Thousands of applicants are enlisting in programs like ours here at Montes HealthCare College in the hopes of attaining a job as quickly as possible. There is certainly no shortage when it comes to the need for healthcare professionals in the current social climate. In fact, there has never been a better time to get involved in medical coding and billing.
While receiving the necessary education takes little time and is generally affordable, some people are still reluctant to give it a try. One of the main areas of concern surrounding this career choice is being unclear about what the job involves. What can you expect from your employer? And what is medical coding and billing really like? Find the answers to those questions and more below!
Medical Coding and Billing: The Inside Scoop!
Medical coding and billing require you to perform roughly the same duties regardless of where you’re employed. Whether employed in a clinic, hospital, or office, a medical coder and biller is tasked with using specific codes to document patient diagnoses and treatments. When described broadly, this task may seem complicated. However, breaking down the title in a series of day-to-day tasks makes the profession much clearer. The following features the most common duties medical coders and biller perform:
- Reviewing patient records.
- Billing insurance providers for medical procedures.
- Determining the right codes for patient records.
- Keeping track of medical data on the computer.
- Interacting with physicians and assistants.
- Managing detailed information about patients.
- Maintaining file security and safety.
While working as a medical assistant requires regular patient interactions, medical coders and billers are generally removed from direct involvement. This career choice is perfect for those who are uncomfortable with performing medical tests, but still interested in making a difference within the medical field.
Your Employment Possibilities
Medical coders and billers often find employment at hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing facilities, and clinics. Some even opt to work in home health care service settings. Regardless of your choice of employment, you must be prepared to work with a robust amount of data in the form of medical charts and specific insurance codes.
In addition to these employment possibilities, you can also perform medical coding and billing duties as a freelancer. Many single parents view this career option as a convenient way to work from home while raising their children. As a freelancer, you may work under contract for a medical office on a fully or partially remote schedule.
In an effort to get started as soon as possible, many people make the mistake of jumping into this career without receiving proper training from a reputable institution. Getting a good education is essential for this career due to the Federal Trade Commission’s strict guidelines surrounding HIPAA compliance. In addition, many coder and biller employment applicants are distinguishing themselves by achieving a national coding certification after graduating from a vocational school.
Fortunately for the students at MHCC, we make preparation for national certification through the American Academy of Professional Coders and the National Center for Competency Testing a top priority. Regardless of your employment desire, we urge you to reach out to Montes HealthCare College and establish the knowledge and skills necessary to set you apart before jumping into this career.
Enroll At Montes HealthCare College Today
If you’re interested in a fulfilling medical coding and billing career, we welcome you to fill out the contact form below and schedule a tour of our campus. For questions and more information, get in touch by calling us at (310) 436-7000 or emailing info@monteshcc.com. We look forward to joining you on your journey to success!