Certification for Medical Billing Specialist

Medical billing specialists are professionals who bill and collect funds from patients, health care providers and government agencies to cover medical costs. Related occupational titles include medical records technicians and medical coders. Medical billing specialists can obtain a variety of certifications, some of which are highly favored by employers.

Health Information Management

As more health care providers use technology to streamline medical billing and record-keeping processes, health information management can play a key role in a medical billing specialist's responsibilities. Organizations such as the American Health Information Management Association offer several credentials related to health information management, coding, data analysis, and health care privacy and security. All credentials require the billing specialist to receive training from an accredited program before taking the certification exam. Examples of credentials from the AHIMA include certified coding associate (CCA), registered health information technician (RHIT), certified health data analyst (CHDA) and certified in health care privacy and security (CHPS).

Medical Coding

The American Academy of Professional Coders offers four credentials for medical billing and coding specialists and 20 additional credentials for those who practice in subspecialty areas of medical billing and coding such as emergency, oncology, family practice and reconstructive surgery. Along with credentials in coding, the AAPC offers credentials related to medical auditing and compliance. Examples of credentials from the AAPC include certified professional coder (CPC), certified professional coder-hospital (CPC-H) and certified professional medical auditor (CPMA).

Cancer

The National Cancer Registrars Association is a nonprofit organization that provides credentials for health care professionals who perform medical billing in the specialty area of cancer. The certified tumor registrar (CTR) credential recognizes medical billing specialists who accurately complete medical information and treatments for cancer patients.

Employment and Salary

Job opportunities for medical billing specialists and related occupations are expected to increase 20 percent through 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job opportunities are expected to grow due to advances in medical treatments and procedures, the increasing use of electronic health records and an aging population that will require additional medical care. In March 2011, PayScale reported average salaries ranging from $26,172 to $35,931 per year for medical billing specialists.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
• American Health Information Management Association: Certifications
• American Academy of Professional Coders: Certifications
• Practice Management Institute: Certifications
• National Cancer Registrars Association: Certification
• PayScale: Hourly Rate Snapshot for Medical Billing Specialist Jobs