A medical coding specialist translates a medical diagnosis into a numerical designation that is used by insurance companies to give precise information about the illness or injury, complications, and exact body site involved. Medical procedures also have a specified set of numerical designations that describe the exact procedure performed.
Medical coders usually work in hospitals or doctors offices; however, some may have their own business. They work in clean, well-lighted surroundings. Usually they work 40-hour weeks but some overtime may be required. In hospitals, they may work day, evening, or night shifts if the billing department operates 24 hours per day. There is little to no contact with patients.
Salary and Job Outlook
The salary range for a medical coder ranges from a high of $58,488 to a low of $33,777 with $43,995 being the average. The job outlook is expected to be better than average through 2016 with faster than average growth at a projected increase of 18 percent. Government regulations regarding health information and billing will ensure that there are plenty of job opportunities available. There will also be the need to replace workers leaving the work force due to retirement.
Medical Coding Programs and Colleges
Certified medical coders are trained in anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. They must understand the etiology, pathology, signs, symptoms, and disease processes. Coders may receive an associates or bachelors degree at one of over 200 colleges and universities across the country. Many more institutions offer a coding certificate program. There are also many online medical coding classes and colleges to choose from.
Some medical coding specialists may choose to become certified in their field. There are several types of certifications from which to choose depending upon your areas of experience. All that is required to be eligible to take the certification exam is a high school diploma or equivalent. It is recommended, but not required to have at least six months of coding experience before attempting to take the exam. Becoming certified may give job candidates an edge when they have little experience in the profession.
Medical coding specialists usually advance within their profession in one of two ways, the first is by specializing and the second is by moving into a management position. Areas of specialization include cancer registry, privacy, and security among others. Medical coders will need to have attention to detail as well as excellent reading, comprehension, and computer skills.
For those who choose to become medical coding specialists, they will be rewarded with job security, a comfortable working environment with few health hazards-although they are subject to eye and muscle strain- and a good salary.
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