Getting Started in Medical Billing and Coding

You've seen the ads. "Learn medical billing and coding and earn $50,000 a year in your own home!" There is some truth to the ads. Doctors are in desperate need of good billers and coders, and there is good money to be made, but don't let the ads fool you. There is no shortcut to a successful career in medical billing or coding.

A practice's financial health rests on the strength of its billing department. Not only do claims need to be coded and submitted to insurance companies correctly and in a timely manner, there are laws governing the proper methods for claims submissions. If these laws are broken, penalties range from steep fines to exclusion from federal and state programs such as Medicare to possible jail time. Physicians depend on the staff to be knowledgeable and to stay abreast of rapidly changing laws. Because of the potential consequences, most doctors are not willing to take a chance on someone with no experience and a "degree" from a diploma mill. So how do you get really get started in a medical billing or coding career?

The first thing to know is the difference between a biller and a coder. A medical coder reads medical charts and reports and assigns numeric codes to diagnoses and procedures. It requires an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology and disease processes as well as knowledge of regulatory guidelines for the application of codes. Coders are in high demand and can work in hospitals,clinics, research facilities and insurance companies. There are two major coding certifications, the Certified Professional Coder and the Certified Coding Specialist. Most employers require at least one of the two major credentials. Some coders do work from home, but they usually have at least five years of experience.