Training In Medical coding @ Resolve
What training do you need to work in medical insurance billing and coding?
Knowledge of
medical terminology is very important for reading and grasping the contents of a patient's chart. Reading a chart entails knowing the procedures applied and the reasons why. In order to grasp the medical terms and medical billing codes, most employees in the medical billing field need to have
training and education from either a career school or local college.
If you are interested in training for a medical billing career, you should seek out a program that includes:
- Medical Terminology and Anatomy
- Medical Billing Software
- Medical Documentation Evaluation
- Government Programs
- Basic Math
- Keyboard and Computer Skills
- Administrative Duties
Medical billing and coding training programs may have students practice preparing insurance claims using manual and electronic methods. A good program will also teach you valuable interviewing and documenting skills.
You should make time to do proper research on any school before enrolling in a medical billing and coding program.
The Job
What is in a medical insurance biller coder's tool kit?
You will need a computer, coding reference books or lookup tools and coding software. Employers may supply necessary or additional materials.
Where do medical billing and coding specialists work?
Medical insurance billers and coders are not limited to the following venues but may work in physicians' offices, ambulatory centers, emergency rooms and insurance companies.
Is it true that medical billers can work from home?
As mentioned above, there are a bunch of scams that advertise medical billing jobs where you can work at home. It's actually very difficult to work at home - especially when you're just getting started. Working at home requires a solid client base that takes years of experience working in this field. If you plan on working as a medical biller, don't have your hopes too high on working at home because that's very rare.
How much do medical billing clerks earn?
Education, experience and industry certification play a big role in how much a medical insurance biller or coder earns.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2010 the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $32,350. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,240, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $53,430.*
What are some other jobs medical billers can do?
The training received from a medical insurance billing and coding course may give you the skills to work in bookkeeping or payroll or as an accounting clerk or medical administrative assistant. This will, of course, vary depending on your education and experience.
Certification
What is the standard certification for an individual just beginning in the industry?
While there are several types of credentials that an individual can become certified in, the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) are popular choices.
What qualifications should a certification class instructor possess?
Anyone teaching a certification course should be certified by the AAPC or AHIMA. While this is not a requirement, it is often found that certified instructors have a higher success rate when helping others prepare to earn their certification.
Are there certifications that employers do not recognize?
There are a number of certifications available through numerous organizations, but that may not be recognized by employers. If you are serious about your career in medical insurance billing and coding, you should consider obtaining certification through the AHIMA or AAPC.
