A medical billing and coding specialist is responsible for translating a patient’s file into medical codes used by insurance companies. These professionals have an important job. They ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed by insurers, so patients can have access to vital medical care.
If you’re looking for a rewarding healthcare career without the demanding hours, working as a medical coder may be a great option for you.
1. Your Skills Will Be In High Demand
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medical billing and coding field is expected to grow 8% between 2019 and 2029. That’s a much faster pace than average, which means that your skills will be in high demand.
The U.S.’s aging population will also fuel growth and demand in this field. The number of older Americans is expected to reach 80 million by 2040. A larger senior population means a greater demand for medical care and the services of medical billing and coding specialists.
You can rest assured that your skills will be in high demand for many years to come. That means greater job security and opportunities for growth as you gain more experience and skill.
2. Jumpstart Your Career With An Online Certificate Program
If you want a career in the medical field but don’t want to spend eight years in school, a career in medical coding may be a great option for you.
Training as a medical biller can take less than a year. We offer two certificate programs, both of which will get you started with your career quickly:
- • MED-BCC, which takes 4-8 months to complete.
- • MED-BCF, which takes 12 months to complete and includes foundation classes.
Both of these programs can be completed entirely online, which puts you in control of your education.
3. Your Work Environment & Schedule Will Be Flexible
Medical billing specialists enjoy a flexible work environment and schedule. Most work full-time, but part-time positions are also available. Some work from home, while others prefer a structured office environment. There are also some individuals who offer their services as a freelancer (i.e. they’re their own boss).
While many medical billing specialists work in hospitals, others are employed by other organizations such as the following options:
- • Small medical practices
- • Pharmaceutical companies
- • Skilled nursing facilities
- • Home healthcare services
- • Outpatient centers
When you choose a career as a medical coding specialist, you can work a schedule that functions best for you and in an environment where you thrive.
4. You Will Enjoy A Rewarding Career
Medical billing and coding specialists play an important role in the healthcare industry. Specialists and other healthcare providers must ensure that claims are properly coded and processed. Otherwise, they will not be reimbursed by insurance providers and patients will have to pay more out of pocket.
In a way, medical coders make healthcare more accessible to the everyday person. They also ensure that healthcare practitioners have the means to provide quality care to their patients.
5. There Is Ample Opportunity For Growth
Medical billing and coding can be a lifelong career, but it can also act as a springboard for other positions with higher salaries.
You can grow in this career through:
- • Specializations: Specialty credentials can boost your salary, and there are many to choose from, such as Certified Pediatrics Coder or Certified Cardiology Coder.
- • Certifications: Having two or more credentials can boost your salary significantly.
There are ample opportunities for growth in this career if you’re willing to put in the work.
A career as a medical coder can be rewarding and fulfilling. You’ll enjoy job security, a flexible work environment, and the opportunity to branch out into other careers. With training taking 12 months or fewer, you can also move into your career more quickly than you might if you pursue other healthcare positions.
