How to Become a Certifed Medical Coder
Medical coders assign standard medical codes to procedures and diagnoses. Often the coding is performed using a computer software program. Because accurate medical coding is vital to payment of health benefit claims, employers prefer to hire certified medical coders. Health-care insurance providers use the coding systems to determine reimbursement for services. Coding systems vary based on the medical facility. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects faster than average growth in demand for medical coders. To meet the demand, and to provide professional standards, professional medical coding organizations offer certification exams.
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Instructions
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Preparing for the Certification Exam
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Determine your choice of medical coding certifications. Certification is available for specialization in hospitals, physician offices and other health care facilities. Certification also is offered in specific health care areas, such as radiology, oncology, cardiovascular or for employment with central cancer registries.
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Determine the level of training or education required for your career choice. Employers may require only proof of certification or they may require completion of a program leading to a certificate or associate degree. A certificate program may require completion of 34 credit hours and a two-year associate degree program may require students to choose a specialization track.
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Select a training or education provider. Certification organizations provide training online and at education providers throughout the United States. Community colleges and continuing and adult education programs at colleges and universities also provide medical coding courses.
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Select a certification organization (See Resources). There are several in the United States that provide certification exams in the various specializations. Learn the requirements and the fee for taking the exam. Ask about exam formats and locations. Training and education providers usually assist students in taking the certification exam.
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Begin the training or education program and purchase textbooks and other materials. Study and master course material to pass all courses and to ensure success on the certification exam. Consider a study partner for pre-exam review of all material and help with memorizing codes.
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Once you have completed the program, create a resume which includes your medical coding training and certification. Join a professional medical coding organization, local or national, to increase the potential for networking opportunities.
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Register with employment agencies and apply for positions at health care and insurance providers, including any facility that submits health insurance claims or manages health care records.
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Maintain continued certification by meeting all requirements, including re-certification processes and continuing education. Maintain personal medical coding reference materials and use a professional resource that provides updates, news and information about the profession.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask providers if they offer employment services and assistance with finding a job. As part of medical coding education, be prepared to take courses in other areas such as anatomy and medical terminology.
Check the accreditation of education providers, training providers and certification organizations. Ask potential employers about their preferred certifying organizations.
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
- O*Net Online: Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
- American Academy of Professional Coders: Certification
- Fisher College: Medical Coding Certificate Program
- Breyer State College: Associate Degree in Medical Coding
Resources
- Photo Credit Hospital Files image by PinkSony from Fotolia.com
