A Comprehensive Guide to Becoming a Medical Coder
Do you have an interest in the medical field, but dont want to invest in years of medical schooling? Becoming a medical coder may be the perfect fit for you. Medical coders are a bridge between medical providers and the world of insurance and patient billing. Coders translate information from health records into simple codes that can be used by insurance companies.
What is Medical Coding?
Medical coding is the translation of medical reports into a simplified code format. Professional medical coders review patient health records and translate them into codes which tell insurance companies what services were provided and how much money should be paid to the health care providers. These health care codes used are from the World Health Organizations International Classification of Disease, which are used by the medical and insurance industries.
What Education is Needed to Become a Medical Coder?
The basic educational requirement for a medical coder is a high school diploma or GED. Many employers prefer to hire coders with a two-year degree in coding which can be earned through community colleges. Some medical coding positions may require the successful completion of the Certified Professional Coding Exam (CPC).
Are There Online Courses for Medical Coder?
Yes. There are many online classes and coding certifications available for those looking to become a medical coder. Many online academic institutions offer medical coding programs that cover anatomy, medical terminology and reimbursement rules. A successful completion of an online program results in certification, which is a very important qualification when seeking employment in this field.
What is the Job Outlook for Medical Coders?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current job outlook for medical coders is very promising. Employment of medical coders is projected to grow much faster than average (15% or higher) through 2028. The field is also expected to become more automated and AI-driven in the future. This means that medical coders will need to be knowledgeable about AI-driven coding processes and be able to apply these to patient records.
Conclusion
Medical coding is a unique and important job in the medical field that does not require years of medical training. With the right education and certification, you can land a rewarding career in the lucrative field of medical coding. Keep in mind that the field of medical coding is constantly changing, as more and more medical records are becoming digitized and automated. In order to stay ahead of the competition, make sure you stay up to date on the latest coding trends and technologies.