[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billing and coding careers can offer rewarding healthcare employment without spending the time and money on a medical or nursing degree. These professionals handle payments for healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients. The need for medical billers and coders has increased with the rise in healthcare services.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Unique medical codes tell what the provider charges for services. Coders update medical records and claims with the right codes that describe patients’ treatments and services.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billers use these codes to create and submit claims to patients, insurance companies, and other payers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide explores how to enter a career in [hen-ui-link href=”/healthcare/medical-billing-and-coding/”]medical billing and coding[/hen-ui-link], including education requirements, certification pathways, and salary prospects.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Featured Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /][/hen-ui-flex][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Medical Biller?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While often one person does medical billing and coding, they are two jobs with different skill sets. Medical billers and coders do not provide patient care, but billers are more likely to work with patients. Billers must have good communication skills to discuss medical charges with patients, healthcare providers, and insurance carriers.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A medical biller uses special software to input medical codes and file claims with insurance companies or government agencies such as Medicare. The biller also submits a statement to the patient for any amount not covered by insurance. A medical biller may also:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Verify insurance coverage, pre-authorizations, and referrals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Correct statements and payments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Set up payment plans and collect on past due accounts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Appeal denied insurance claims[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Be knowledgeable in HMO/PPO, Medicare, and Medicaid coverage[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects these healthcare professionals to grow by 9% between 2023 and 2033. The expected increase reflects the growing demand for healthcare by older adults and the expansion of insurance coverage among all age groups.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aapc.com/resources/research/medical-coding-salary-survey/” target=”_blank”]American Association of Professional Coders[/hen-ui-link] (AAPC), the average annual [hen-ui-link href=”/healthcare/medical-billing-and-coding/salary//”]medical biller and coder salary[/hen-ui-link] is $61,022. Earnings vary with setting, education level, certifications, and experience.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Medical Coder?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical coders assign codes to medical terms. These terms can refer to treatments, procedures, equipment, and services. Medical coders enter these codes into billing systems. With these codes, healthcare providers can receive correct payments through insurance or directly from patients.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical coders help keep billing and payments accurate and in line with regulations. Although coders usually work independently, they must communicate well with medical billers, physicians and nurses, and administrative staff.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Because medical coders work in many different healthcare settings, their day-to-day tasks may vary. However, common responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Analyzing patient records and clinical reports[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Researching reimbursement and payment information[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Translating medical information into codes for billing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Maintaining federal and state compliance[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Performing audits for accuracy[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Like medical billers, coders can expect an expanding job market through the end of the decade. [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aapc.com/resources/research/medical-coding-salary-survey/” target=”_blank”]AAPC reports[/hen-ui-link] that coders without certifications make an average yearly salary of $61,022. With certification, this average increases to $66,186. Earnings also vary by specializations, educational level, and experience.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Steps to Becoming a Medical Biller or Coder[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”ordered” bullet-style=”check”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Earn a high school diploma (or equivalent).[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An individual can pursue an entry-level job in medical billing and coding with a high school diploma or GED certificate. However, certification and advanced training can boost career options and earning potential. Certificate/diploma programs and associate degrees require a high school diploma or its equivalent for admission.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Enroll in medical billing and/or coding programs.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diploma programs and associate degrees are the most common educational pathways for medical billing and coding careers. Aspiring professionals can enroll at vocational and technical schools.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These programs take a year or less to complete. They provide the training for national coding certification exams and entry-level positions. Many schools offer medical billing and coding classes online.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employers typically prefer to hire associate degree-holders, which can take two years. An associate degree offers a foundation in general education with a focus in medical terminology, coding, and information technology (IT).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Associate-level graduates can find career opportunities in insurance companies, government, and healthcare providers. Students often transfer their associate degree credits to bachelor’s programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Pass certification examinations.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare employers generally prefer billers and coders who have earned professional certifications. These certifications ensure mastery of complex billing and government-mandated coding requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certification can lead to more job opportunities and higher salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”xxs”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Find employment.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”xs”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many schools that offer medical billing and coding training offer career services. The career office can help learners prepare resumes, practice interview skills, and find job openings.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job candidates should include any internships and relevant work experience in their applications. Individuals can read [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aapc.com/resources/research/medical-coding-salary-survey/” target=”_blank”]AAPC’s information[/hen-ui-link] on the cities and states that have the best job opportunities and highest salaries.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-flex][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Medical Billing and Coding Certification[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diploma programs and associate degrees prepare students to enter this field and for professional certification exams. Most students pursue either the certified professional biller (CPB) or the certified professional coder (CPC) credentials.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While these are separate credentials, many programs offer dual certifications as CPBs and CPCs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”primary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Billing Program Overview” expanded=”true”] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Billing Curriculum”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billing and coding programs offer similar courses in medical terminology, medical ethics and law, and anatomy and physiology. Medical billing coursework also includes:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Healthcare communications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Records management[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer applications for billing[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Health insurance and reimbursement[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Billing Certification”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billers do not need professional certification to find employment, but it can increase job and salary options.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified Professional Biller: The CPB credential from AAPC is the most recognized billing certification. This certification verifies that medical billers have mastered the skills to maintain healthcare providers’ revenue cycles. The CPB exam includes 200 multiple-choice questions focusing on billing practices, managed care, Medicare and Medicaid, and HIPAA compliance.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified Billing and Coding Specialist: The CBCS certification, administered through the National Healthcareer Association, concentrates on medical billing and coding for insurance claims. The 100-question exam covers the revenue cycle, compliance, insurance eligibility, coding guidelines, and reimbursement.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Coding Program Overview” expanded=”true”] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Coding Curriculum”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most coding programs train in medical terminology, coding classifications, HIPAA compliance, and Medicare and Medicaid policies. While each school has specific course requirements, medical coding students typically take classes in:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Diagnostic and procedural coding[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Billing and coding applications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]International diseases classification[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Current terminology coding[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical Coding Certification”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]AAPC and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.ahima.org/” target=”_blank”]American Health Information Management Association[/hen-ui-link] (AHIMA) offer some of the most commonly recognized medical coding certifications, including:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified Professional Coder: AAPC administers the popular CPC credential. This certification indicates mastery of all standard code sets and guideline and management principles. The multiple-choice exam covers 17 areas such as the proper procedure to supply diagnosis codes used by healthcare providers.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified Coding Assistant: The CCA certification from AHIMA outlines six domains: clinical classical systems, reimbursement methodologies, health records and data content, compliance, IT, and confidentiality and privacy.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certified Coding Specialist: This AHIMA certification points to mastery in coding skills and documentation, provider questions, and compliance. The CCS exam includes multiple-choice questions and a medical scenario section.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical coders may pursue even more specialized certifications from AAPC: auditing, documentation, risk adjustment, and physician practice management. Experienced coders can get certifications in specific medical disciplines such as anesthesiology and pain management, orthopedic surgery, and plastic and reconstructive surgery.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Working in Medical Billing and Coding[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the BLS, employment for medical records and health information specialists will increase by a slightly faster-than-average rate of 9% from 2023-2033. Most jobs will be in these settings:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Hospitals (State, Local, and Private)[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Hospitals are the major employer of medical records and health information specialists, hiring 37% of all workers in this category. While specific duties depend on the hospital size, medical billers and coders help manage revenue cycles. With accurate and up-to-date revenue data, hospitals can receive insurance reimbursements and payments from patients on schedule.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Physicians’ Offices[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctors’ offices need reliable medical coding and billing services. Larger clinics may offer higher salaries, but smaller offices might provide a less stressful environment with lower caseloads. Doctors’ offices, especially smaller practices, often hire individuals who perform both billing and coding roles.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Administrative and Support Services[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many healthcare providers, government agencies, and insurance carriers rely on medical billers and coders in administrative and support roles. They design and carry out procedures that can boost efficiency and profitability.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Large healthcare facilities hire IT specialists and consultants to streamline coding and billing work. In smaller settings, administrative assistants with coding and billing expertise handle patient questions and process claims.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]At insurance agencies, these professionals verify claims and work with patients to gather information and explain benefits.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This category includes colleges, law offices, insurance agencies, and IT companies. Colleges and technology schools hire experienced medical coders to train the next generation. Law offices hire coding and billing specialists to investigate fraud claims.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]As the use of electronic health records becomes more prevalent, IT departments will hire more medical billing and coding experts to create, improve, and modify coding and billing systems.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Government agencies hire medical billers and coders to work on research projects. In these settings, they collect and analyze medical data for population health studies and healthcare policy reform.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Management of Companies and Enterprises[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billers and coders can take advantage of leadership opportunities as auditors, administrators, operations managers, and trainers. They often work in insurance, private healthcare systems, and accounting and payroll services.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing and Coding[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How long does it take to become a medical billing and coding specialist?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individuals can move into entry-level medical and billing careers after earning high school diplomas or GED certificates. However, job prospects typically increase with advanced training. Diploma programs take a year or less to complete. Most associate degrees require two years. Completing certification requirements may mean more time before finding a job.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How can I become a medical coder fast?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billing and coding programs offered by vocational or technical schools provide the fastest pathway to a job. Some programs take six months or less. The amount of time depends on the specialty and full-time versus part-time enrollment.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much does a medical coder make hourly?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aapc.com/resources/research/medical-coding-salary-survey/” target=”_blank”]According to AAPC[/hen-ui-link], California pays the highest average hourly wage of $38.55. Mississippi has the lowest with $27.00.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is medical coding a stressful job?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Medical billers and coders may experience stress depending on their work environment. Billers and coders employed in small clinics and medical practices may feel less pressure than those who work for large healthcare providers and insurance companies. Billers and coders who work remotely report less stress and greater job satisfaction.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item][/hen-ui-accordion][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn More About Medical Billing and Coding[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”52548,53024,52519″][/hen-ui-article-row]