Medical billing and coding jobs are in high demand, offer good pay, and allow for remote work.
Victoria, a medical coder, auditor, educator, and content creator with 10+ years of experience, provides insights into the profession.
Medical Billing vs. Medical Coding
Medical Coding: Involves reviewing medical records, extracting diagnoses, procedures, equipment, and translating into alphanumeric codes (e.g., ICD-10-CM codes).
Medical Billing: Focuses on monitoring claims, ensuring correct billing, addressing denials, and following up on payments.
Types of Medical Coding and Credentials
Certifying Bodies: AAPC and AHIMA are the main organizations.
Common Credentials: CPC (Certified Professional Coder) by AAPC is highly recommended.
Main Code Sets
ICD-10-CM: Diagnosis coding system used in the U.S.
ICD-10-PCS: Procedural coding system for inpatient hospital stays.
CPT (Current Procedural Terminology): Codes for procedures and services.
HCPCS: Codes for durable medical equipment, drug codes, etc.
CDT: Dental terminology codes.
DSM-5: Mental health condition codes.
Work Environment and Opportunities
Locations: Work from home, offices, hospitals, insurance companies, consulting firms.
Security Protocols: Strict due to HIPAA and patient privacy.
Remote Work: Code Health offers gig work similar to Uber or Instacart.
Salary Information
Median salary for a CPC is about $58,000 annually but varies with experience, specialty, and location.
Use AAPC's salary calculator for region-specific salary information.
Training Requirements
Certification is necessary; degrees are not required.
Training focuses on preparing for certification exams like CPC and CCS.
Self-training options exist but may not save significant money.
Industry Demand and Future
Automation is present but doesn't replace human intervention due to the complexity of medical services.
Ongoing need for tracking services for fraud prevention and data purposes.
Costs and Maintenance
There are costs for books, membership dues, and continuing education.
AAPC membership is approximately $190 annually.
Continuous education units (CEUs) are required.
Work Environment Considerations
Varied office environments, including potentially toxic ones.
Easy job switching after gaining experience.
Conclusion
Medical coding is in demand, with lower training costs compared to traditional degrees.
Offers flexibility and a promising career path despite some costs.
Medical Coding Masterclass: Recommended for industry training.