When thinking about career options, you may already know what direction you want to take. Perhaps you have no idea at all. Maybe you have always fancied the idea of working within the healthcare sector but don’t like the idea of training to become a doctor or a nurse. It is worth remembering that not everyone working in the healthcare industry is medically trained. In fact, there are many individuals working in the administration side of the healthcare industry, such as medical practice managers, receptionists, and operations administrators. Then there are those who work as medical coders or billers.
Medical coding and billing can be an excellent career choice for those who are detail oriented, assertive, and competent with computer software. Below are just some of the reasons to consider becoming a medical coder or biller.
Work in a Growing Industry
If working in healthcare is something that has always interested you, then medical coding and billing will allow you to do this with a relatively short time spent in further education. Even if you haven’t had a pull from the healthcare industry, it is a great place to begin your career. The healthcare sector is growing, and as the population ages, the need for medical coders and billers will only grow as well. In addition, you can work in any part of the U.S., as coding is a universal language.
Lots of Opportunities
Medical coders are in demand and even if you prove yourself to be good at the job, you could become a team leader or even get promoted to management. According to Find-A-Code.com, you will have the opportunity to apply for positions in large hospitals, smaller more intimate medical facilities, or even dedicated medical coding companies.
Insurance companies will also be eager to employ individuals with an in-depth knowledge of medical coding and billing procedures. Furthermore, should you wish to set up your own medical billing company, you will have the knowledge and expertise as well as the contacts to do so.
Flexible Working
These days, working from home has become the norm for many and when it comes to billing and coding, this is no different. Medical facilities often outsource their coding and billing to companies or freelancers, allowing those who work in the field to have more flexibility when it comes to their working hours. This helps to ensure a good work/life balance.
Competitive Salary
Medical coders and billers earn an average of $66,504, according to the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders). Those with a certification can earn a higher salary, so it is worth completing the required training before entering the profession. The good news is that medical coding and billing certification can be achieved in as little as two years.
It is worth noting that medical coder salaries are dependent on a few factors, including the location where the individual is employed and the type of organization they work for. Larger facilities such as hospitals tend to pay more than smaller clinics or practices. Furthermore, those with more experience will typically earn more.
Challenging Role
Working as a medical coder or biller might at first glance appear to be a monotonous job that involves little more than inputting data. However, it is an incredibly challenging role with no two patient files being the same. Coders must be able to look carefully at every file and will need to use their analytical and research skills to ensure the correct coding is used for the various aspects of the report. This is a fast-paced role, so requires the ability to work to deadlines.
