A Job Description for Medical Billing and Coding
As part of a medical team, medical billing and coding specialists contribute a valued skill in overall patient care. Their work ensures correct billing and payment for medical examinations and procedures. Medical billers and coders work in a variety of settings, from small doctor's offices to very large hospitals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports strong demand for this profession.
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Job Classification and Role
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According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, medical billing and coding specialists fall under the category of medical records and health information technicians. The medical biller and coder's role is to enter the coding of a patient's diagnosis and treatment correctly into a database. The medical office relies on the database to bill insurance companies, which in turn disburse funds according to the data presented by the medical biller and coder.
Training and Education
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Medical billing and coding professionals usually have an associate degree, and many employers favor those who have obtained the Registered Health Information Technicians (RHIT) credential, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Many community colleges offer specialized associate degrees in medical billing and coding. Furthermore, many colleges offer online courses in this field.
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Job Prospects
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Job prospects for the profession appear to be good. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, medical billers and coders held 172,500 jobs in 2008. By 2018, that number is projected to grow to 207,600 jobs, an increase of 20 percent. That's much faster than the average growth for all occupations, states the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Work Environment and Hours
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Medical billers and coders usually work in climate-controlled, well-lit, comfortable offices. They sit in front of computers to enter data, and use various types of computer software. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical records and health information technicians typically work 40-hour weeks. Some work evenings or nights shifts as hospitals and other health care facilities remain open all hours.
Wages and Advancement
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As of May 2008, medical records and health information technicians earned median annual wages of $30,610, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies with experience and hours worked. Skilled billers and coders are given more responsibility, with more earnings. Some technicians advance to become department managers, which leads to even greater earnings.
Considerations
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Medical billing and coding professionals have access to sensitive patient information, including Social Security numbers. They must adhere to the laws protecting patient confidentiality. The job also involves much sitting and typing, which can have health consequences. Medical billers and coders undergo training concerning ethics, patient information, and how to avoid work-related strain and health issues.
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