Medical billing and coding careers are some of the highest-paying jobs for remote workers and can be rewarding options for various people. To start a career in this field, you will want to understand what the job entails and the requirements and training. You will then want to earn the necessary certifications and be sure to list all relevant education and experience on your resume.
What Is Medical Billing and Coding?
When you visit a medical professional, your information, including any tests and diagnoses, is put into a chart so your medical team can quickly and effectively treat you. This chart acts as an invoice for your visit, which the billing department submits to your insurance company and you in a different format. This format includes internationally recognized codes based on the International Classification of Diseases and Current Procedural Terminology to simplify each item on your chart for billing. When you enter the medical billing and coding field, you will be taught how to enter these codes into the right software to generate accurate invoices for the patient, physician and insurance company.
What Are the Requirements for the Job?
Being a medical biller and coder requires extensive knowledge of the ICD-10 and CPT codes currently in use. It also requires a high school diploma or equivalent, attention to detail and good organization skills. Higher education, such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, is unnecessary but can help you be competitive when applying for jobs.
What Training Is Required?
Medical billing and coding training courses are needed for careers in this field, and you must complete them from an accredited institution. Luckily, many accredited online colleges offer this type of program so you can pass the training at your own pace. These training programs do not necessarily include the certification exams offered through the American Academy of Professional Coders. Still, they are designed to prepare you for those tests and may help you find exams provided in your area. One benefit of online training is that you can more easily fit classes into a busy schedule and learn while you work in another position.
How Do You Write a Resume for Medical Billing and Coding Jobs?
When updating your resume for a medical billing and coding career, it is essential to list your education and training and any degrees and certifications you have earned. It is also a good idea to include specific information in the summaries of your educational and work experiences, such as your attention to detail, level of organization and communication skills. These skills will help you succeed in your career, and telling potential employers that you have demonstrated them in professional settings can go a long way toward being hired.
Starting a medical billing and coding career can be rewarding and allow you more flexibility in your schedule. You can earn the necessary certifications and learn how to succeed in this career through online and accredited programs so you can go at your own pace, around your busy schedule and from the comfort of your home. Jobs in this field are best for detail-oriented and organized professionals.