Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools – Do you want to improve your chances of landing a job in the healthcare field? If yes, then you should consider enrolling at a medical billing and coding school. This article looks into the benefits of studying medical billing and coding & Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools.
Medical billing and coding are a service provided by physicians or other healthcare providers to bill insurance companies for services rendered.
There are numerous medical coding programs out there. Many students can earn more than $50K per year after graduation. The healthcare sector has a promising future. Therefore, you would better prepare yourself now through the study of medical billing and coding. By starting early in Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools, you stand a better chance of having a successful career.
The Benefits of Studying Medical Coding and Billing
1. Job Growth
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical billers and coders was expected to grow 19 percent between 2012 and 2022. In addition, BLS projects those jobs to pay $32 per hour in 2022. A job in medical billing or coding can provide an excellent income opportunity.
2. High Payouts
When compared to many other professions, medical coding pays well. According to the BLS, medical billers and codifiers earned $38,360 in 2017. Another study shows a high average annual salary of $53,000 for medical coding professionals.
3. Career Options
Medical coding and billing provide many career options. Professionals who work as medical billing specialists may find themselves working in private practices, hospitals, insurance companies, government agencies, research firms, or non-profits.
4. Flexibility
Medical coding and billing are a field that offers flexibility. You have the option of choosing office hours that meet your needs. After completing online training programs, medical coding and billing classes only require attendance two days out of seven.
5. Professional Development
If you’re looking to develop yourself professionally, then consider studying medical billing and coding. These courses offer professional development opportunities that can improve your skills and give you exposure to new industries.
6. Education
A good method to boost your job is via education. Medical coding education programs help train students in the basics of medical terminology, medical writing, HIPAA compliance, and billing regulations.
7. Social Media Exposure
Social media is a great platform for networking and getting ahead in your career. By learning medical coding, you’ll acquire the necessary knowledge to become more visible on social media platforms.
What does it mean to Medical Billing and Coding?
1. What does it mean?
Medical billing and coding refer to the process of obtaining reimbursement for services provided to patients. The process involves recording information about diagnoses, procedures, and prescription drugs. There are two main types of medical billers and coders — providers and administrative staff. A provider bills claims submitted by healthcare facilities for payment. An administrative person is responsible for managing the billing process internally. Both have different responsibilities.
2. How do they work?
The provider’s job entails collecting patient records and documenting them in order to submit claims for reimbursement. Claims can be processed manually or electronically. Most providers use electronic systems to record and transmit data automatically, although some still rely on paper forms. The administrative staff handles claims processing on behalf of providers. Generally, administrative assistants maintain patient charts and file paperwork associated with claims submission.
3. How many people?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were around 881,000 medical billers and codifiers in 2018. The BLS projects employment growth for medical billers and coders at 10 percent over the next decade. Demand is expected to outpace supply. In addition, demand for medical billers and coder jobs is projected to increase faster than average over the coming years.
4. Job Requirements
For entry-level employment, a bachelor’s degree is often necessary. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only 25 percent of medical billers and coders hold degrees. Many employers prefer applicants who have experiences working in a related field, such as pharmacy or nursing. Other desirable skills include typing speed, computer proficiency, and attention to detail.
5. Career options
Employment opportunities in the medical billing and coding industry range widely based on employer size, location, specialization, and specific skill set. According to the BLS, most medical billers and coders work full-time in offices, clinics, hospitals, or physician practices. Smaller companies often hire independent contractors to perform these tasks remotely. Companies may specialize in certain practice areas, including surgical coding or billing, insurance billing, or general coding and billing.
6. Benefits
Most workers enjoy good pay, flexible schedules, and a chance to work with physicians and nurses. As mentioned above, the majority of entry-level positions require only a high school diploma or equivalent; however, higher education and certification from Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools can lead to greater career advancement. Employers also offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
How to Become a Professional Medical Biller
1. Become a Certified Coder (CCDA)
The first step toward becoming a biller is to become certified. There are two ways to get certified; you can take the test online at www.ccdaonline.org or in person at the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Once you have taken the test and passed it, then you are officially certified! You should always keep your certification current by attending continuing education classes and keeping up-to-date on the latest trends in coding and billing.
2. Complete Your Degree Program
Next, you need to complete your degree program in Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in order to become a professional biller. In order to do this, you need to attend school full-time. If you work full time, then you may not have enough time to go to school full-time. However, if you work fewer hours, then you will likely be able to find the time to go to school and graduate. A good starting point would be a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Accounting, Human Resources, or Computer Science. These programs will prepare you well for the job of a medical coder and give you the skills necessary to succeed in the healthcare industry.
3. Take Online Classes
Another way to advance your career in the medical field is to take online classes offered by Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools. Many universities offer courses online that you can take to advance your knowledge of the medical profession. Not only will these classes help you hone your skills, but they will also help you save money.
4. Network
As you advance in your career, you will encounter many people who are much further along than you are. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t know what to say to them. Instead, take advantage of networking. Go to meetings where professionals in your area gather. Talk to those who seem knowledgeable about your topic and ask them questions. Also, you could try joining a local chapter of AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association), a national organization dedicated to promoting quality patient care and information technology. By joining this group, you will have access to a wide network of professionals and can learn about new advances in the medical field.
5. Get Involved with Social Media Communities
Social media communities allow you to connect with others who share similar interests. Participating in social media groups will help you stay abreast of new developments in the medical field. This is especially helpful if you want to expand your skill set or if you are looking for employment opportunities.
6. Stay Current with Technology
If you want to advance your career in medicine, you cannot avoid using technology. Healthcare organizations & Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools use software applications to track patients, manage records, and monitor finances. As a result, you need to remain updated with the newest technologies in the medical field. To do this, you should attend webinars and training seminars related to specific topics. These sessions will teach you how to use the newest software applications effectively.
7. Work Hard
Finally, you need to put in the work. You need to practice coding and billing on your own, volunteer your services for free, and network with other professionals in your field. If you work hard, then you will eventually make enough money to pay off your student loans and move out on your own.
Top / Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools – Salary and Job Outlook
1. University of Phoenix
The University of Phoenix is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and offers accredited programs for Medical Billing & Coding, Pharmacy Technician Certification (PTC), Emergency Care Technicians, and Medical Office Administration students who want to become successful in their chosen career path. Students earn Associate’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, and Bachelor’s degrees online. Most employers prefer to hire graduates with an associate degree rather than a diploma because they are not sure about the validity of the diploma. Many universities offer scholarships based on financial needs. The average salary for Medical Assistant Professionals is $28,000 per year. Students can expect to work full-time while attending school. There is a high demand for Medical Assistants. By 2020, employment opportunities should increase, due to the aging baby boomer population.
2. American Intercontinental University
AIU is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and provides Medical Billing and Coding programs at the certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Students choose between weekend, evening, online, and hybrid classes. AIU is located in San Diego, CA, and has been offering education since 1997. Graduates receive credentials validating knowledge in Medical Billing & Coder, including PPO, HMO, FFS, IPAB, Health Maintenance Organizations, and Insurance Exchanges. Average starting salaries range from $23,000-$35,000. The industry is expected to experience job growth in the coming years.
3. Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and their Medical Billing and Coder programs trains students to provide services to those recovering from illness or injury. Students learn how to prepare claims for insurance companies and assist patients who have received treatment. The curriculum includes courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Legal Aspects of Medicine, Biostatistics, Medical Terminology, Medical Records Management, Medical Ethics, and Medical Economics. There are no prerequisites for admission; however, prospective applicants should contact the admissions office for specific requirements. Program graduates enter the workforce with certifications that make them competitive candidates for positions involving medical billing and coding. Once employed, graduates can expect to earn a salary ranging anywhere from $25,000 to over $100,000 annually. Medical assistants working in the healthcare field can expect to experience job growth in this sector over the coming decade.
4. National University
National University is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and offers Medical Billing and Cording programs at the certificate, associates’ level, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Classes take place either on campus or online. Students may obtain a California State License after completing the Medical Assisting Certificate Program. Graduates will possess the necessary skills to help people access health care, whether through direct patient care, case management, billing/coding, administrative assistance, or some combination thereof. Those interested in pursuing further studies can enroll in additional postsecondary educational programs. Starting wages vary depending on where a student lives in the United States. In general, workers residing along the West Coast of the country enjoy higher pay compared to those living elsewhere. Workers often get promoted to positions that require a different skill set later on in their careers.
5. Southern New Hampshire University
SUNY is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and offers Medical Coding and Billing training in Concord, New Hampshire. Courses cover topics related to anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, and legal aspects of medicine. Students gain hands-on experience in a medical setting through internships. After passing a licensing examination, graduates from the SUNY School of Allied Health Sciences can practice under the supervision of a licensed physician. They can then apply for licensure as a clinical medical assistant in several states. On average, medical assistants receive an annual salary ranging from $24,000 to $37,000. The job outlook is good, especially in a state like New Hampshire. Future employment prospects for these professionals are anticipated to be strong.
6. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University’s College of Nursing offers an MSN in Medical Surgical Assistant. This course prepares graduates to work as entry-level nurse assistants. Specific coursework focuses on human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, safety practices, infection control, and first aid. Upon graduation, students will be ready to begin a career as medical assistants. According to the BLS, the median salary for nursing assistants is around $41,600. Those interested in becoming medical assisting professionals will enjoy a stable job market. The number of jobs available is predicted to rise by 10 percent from 2016 to 2026.
7. Villanova University
Villanova University is one of the Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools and offers two paths toward obtaining a Master of Science Degree in Medical Billing and CODING. Both programs start with an undergraduate major in business administration or biology/premed. Students who wish to pursue certification may opt for a short residency program offered by Villanova, which qualifies for reimbursement options set forth by Medicare and Medicaid. Coursework covers basic medical terminology, medical ethics, and medical economics. Students will use their knowledge of anatomy and physiology, biostatistics, and public policy during simulated medical scenarios. Throughout their study, students are encouraged to develop problem-solving and communication skills. Graduates from this program can anticipate a starting salary of around $45,000. However, starting wages vary widely across the nation. For example, medical assistants in Florida tend to earn less than their counterparts in Pennsylvania or Illinois.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in the field of medical billing, this is a great option. You will need to go through some rigorous training before you begin working; however, once you complete the program, you are eligible to work immediately. Medical coding and billing are growing in demand. Medical billing and coding offer many career opportunities, including high payouts, flexible schedules, and professional development.
