How To Become A Medical Biller — Step-by-Step Guide

According to Karen Ewing, medical billers are integral members of the healthcare industry revenue cycle management (RCM) team. A skillful medical biller helps healthcare facilities, insurance payors, and patients navigate the complexities of the many laws, regulations and guidelines related to the business side of healthcare. In addition to the prospects of playing an important role in the industry, another attractive aspect of the medical billing career path is that it offers challenges and opportunities for advancement without long years of schooling. In today’s post, let’s look at some recommended steps on how to become a medical biller.

CCO’s Medical Billing Training Course — VIDEO

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How To Become A Medical Biller Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Learn about the profession

Before jumping into any career, it’s important to collect as much information as you can. Find out what the work is like. Ask questions like: what kind of job prospects and advancement opportunities does the career offer? How much can I earn? What kind of environment do medical coding and billing specialists work in? What kind of skills do I need to enter the profession? Try and find someone from the industry to talk to you and answer any doubts or questions you may have. Source: http://www.careerstep.com/blog/coding-and-billing/a-step-by-step-guide-to-starting-a-career-in-medical-coding-and-billing

Step 2: Obtain Postsecondary Training

Medical billing and coding programs are available at the certificate and associate’s levels. While both programs feature similar courses and cover the same topics, those who earn an associate’s degree have the option of continuing their education at the bachelor’s degree level. Courses typically cover topics like medical billing, coding medical procedures, medical terminology and insurance billing. Students become familiar with CPT, ICD-9 and HCPCS manuals, which include medical codes for insurance companies and reimbursements. Opportunities are also available to learn how to complete insurance forms and file claims. Source: http://study.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Medical_Billing_Clerk_Step-by-Step_Career_Guide.html

Success Tip

  • Look for programs that give additional benefits. Some programs can prepare graduates to take the exams for relevant certifications, programs that give students standard training plus preparation for advancing their career may save time and money.

Step 3: Gain Experience

Volunteer at a hospital: You can learn a lot from the experience you get volunteering. Volunteering in a hospital or healthcare facility while you’re still in school will help you better understand their day-to-day operations and get an idea of how things work. This is the perfect opportunity to network within the Health Information Management (HIM) department and develop professional contacts. Source: http://study.com/articles/How_to_Become_a_Medical_Billing_Clerk_Step-by-Step_Career_Guide.html

Step 4: Get certified

Many employers prefer to hire certified professionals. Several industry organizations offer certifications for medical coding and billing specialists. Two of the most popular credentials include the American Academy of Professional Coders’ (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the American Health Information Management Association’s (AHIMA) Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certifications. Both of these credentials are awarded when the applicant passes the associated certification exam. Source: http://www.careerstep.com/blog/coding-and-billing/a-step-by-step-guide-to-starting-a-career-in-medical-coding-and-billing You can also get certification with medical billing and coding here at Certification Coaching Organization. To learn more, check out our online medical billing and coding courses.

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How To Become A Medical Biller — Step-by-Step Guide

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