Online Careers in Medical Billing
As the healthcare industry continues to grow, medical billing professionals are constantly expanding their skills and responsibilities to support physicians and medical staff. Technological advancements in the processing and storage of patient records have prompted billing representatives to continually update their skills and broaden their knowledge within the industry. Because most medical records are now stored electronically, learning and mastering computer software and tools used to process this data is crucial for online medical billing professionals.
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Function
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Online medical billing professionals are responsible for researching, organizing and entering patient data into databases. Medical billing representatives also ensure that the information entered is accurate, accessible and secure from digital intruders and hackers. Online medical billing representatives manage health information in electronic health record (EHR) software programs and conduct usability tests to help maintain their organization's computer network. Additionally, some online medical billing professionals categorize and code data for reimbursement by insurance companies and programs.
Education
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In addition to a high school diploma, most employers prefer candidates with an associate's degree from a college or professional training program that focuses on the latest billing and coding technologies. Professional certifications also boost candidates' potential for job placement. For example, the American Health Information Management Association provides certification for health information technicians. Candidates with associate's degrees can pursue credentialing with the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education. Moreover, applicants have to pass a written exam to obtain accreditation. The American Academy of Professional Coders also provides certification for medical coding professionals (see Resources).
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Salary
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The average salary for medical records and health information technicians was $33,880 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) "Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition." Average annual wages differed across industry sector and employer. For instance, medical billing professional working in hospitals averaged $35,870 annually. In comparison, medical records technicians working in federal government agencies earned an average salary of $45,120. Workers employed by pharmaceutical companies reported the highest average wages, earning $61,210. Medical billing professionals working in physician offices reported the lowest average wages at $28,460.
Potential
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Significant growth is expected within the medical records and billing field due to an increase in diagnostic testing and medical procedures during the 2008 to 2018 decade. Jobs for medical records and health information technicians are projected to increase 20 percent during this time period, according to the BLS. Other factors contributing to job growth within the online medical billing sector is an aging population and widespread use of electronic data management on the job.
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References
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