According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical billers, coders and other medical records specialists is increasing much faster than average. If you’re interested in joining the healthcare field but want a job that doesn’t require years of education, now is the perfect time to enroll in medical billing and coding training.
An Overview of Medical Billing and Coding
Medical coding is the process of translating procedures, diseases and other medical information into a standardized language. This ensures that records about a patient’s medical history and the treatments they’ve received can be maintained accurately and understood correctly by anyone who needs to review them, whether that’s a doctor, an insurer or researchers who study diseases and treatments to help develop new cures.
Medical billing involves submitting claims to insurance companies. Billers also dispute claim denials and follow up on unpaid claims.
There are four standardized medical coding systems used in the modern healthcare and health insurance industry. International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) is used for coding diagnoses and procedures. ICD-11 is an updated version of ICD-10. The industry is currently in the middle of a transition period between ICD-10 and ICD-11, so coders should be familiar with both.
Current Procedural Terminology, or CPT, is used for medical procedures and services. For example, a coder might assign CPT codes to a surgery, outpatient medical visit or diagnostic test.
Finally, the HCPCS II system covers medical equipment, supplies, procedures and medications that aren’t included in the CPT system. HCPCS II is also known as the National Codes.
Medical Billing and Coding Training Requirements
The best way to enter the medical billing and coding field is to complete a specialized training program. Getting industry certifications like Certified Professional Coder, Certified Billing and Coding Specialist or Certified Coding Associate can open up more job opportunities. Approved training programs focus on anatomy, medical terminology, insurance billing and other related topics.
It takes less than 1 year to complete the medical billing and coding training program at Healthcare Career College, making this field ideal for students who want to enter the field right away. Medical billing and coding careers also offer stability and flexibility.
How to Get Medical Billing and Coding Jobs
The first step to qualifying for medical billing and coding jobs is to complete a high school diploma. If you don’t already have a diploma, HCC partners with Five Keys Charter School and ABC Adult School to help you get one while you’re enrolled in our training program.
Once you complete your training program, you can sit for a certification exam. HCC’s medical billing and coding training includes free certification prep to help you succeed. It’s also helpful to complete an internship with a medical facility in your area. Internships help students build their billing and coding skills.
Finally, you have to search for job openings, submit applications and attend interviews. A good résumé emphasizes relevant training, certifications and work experience. Employers should also be able to get a sense of your organizational skills and attention to detail.
Start your new career today! Enroll in the HCC Medical Billing and Coding Training program!