Medical Billing And Coding Profession

Medical billers and coders are in high demand among the allied health occupations. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), health information technicians are one of the 10 fastest-growing allied health occupations. It is a challenging, interesting career where you are compensated according to your level of skills and how effectively you use them.

Medical billers and coders know this and feel good about the support they provide to physicians, clinics, hospitals, and patients. They know they play an important role in the business office where they are employed. Their work consists of submitting the proper documentation to a number of insurance companies and federal agencies for reimbursement in order for their employer to financially succeed and avoid fraud charges. Their specialized training and expertise lets them find work any place, any time. Numerous opportunities for trained individuals exist in medical offices, clinics, hospitals, insurance companies, and in form of freelance home-based businesses. Advancement opportunities are unlimited!

The U.S. Department of Labor states that continued employment growth for medical coders and billers is spurred by the increased medical needs of an aging population and the number of health practitioners. The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that earnings vary widely and pay levels are governed chiefly by experience and qualifications.

Healthcare Careers Offer Job Security, Personal Satisfaction, Challenges, and Rewarding Experiences

Many interested in a career in the healthcare field decide to specialize in the medical billing and coding profession. Medical billers and coders are no longer restricted to only the doctor's or dentist's office but are now working in hospitals, pharmacies, nursing homes, mental healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, insurance companies, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), consulting firms, and health data organizations, or even from home.

These highly skilled professionals are earning impressive wages everywhere they are. Typical duties of medical billers and coders include:

* Explaining insurance benefits to patients and clients
* Office bookkeeping and other administrative duties
* Accurately completing claim forms
* Explaining insurance benefits to patients
* Handling day to day medical billing procedures
* Adhering to each insurance carrier's policies and procedures
* Prompt billing of insurance companies
* Documenting all activities using correct medical terminology
* Scheduling appointments

Other job opportunities for medical billers and coders include:

* Billing Specialist
* Patient Account Representative
* Electronic Claims Processor
* Billing Coordinator
* Coding Specialist
* Claims Analyst
* Reimbursement Specialist
* Claims Assistant Professional
* Medical Collector
* Claims Processor
* Claims Reviewer

What is Medical Billing?

Medical billing is better described as medical practice management and a doctor's key to getting paid. Although most doctor's offices request that payment be made at the time a medical service is provided in order to minimize billing, every medical office has a need to maintain patient financial accounts and for collecting money.