How to get started in medical billing career?

Question

I'm really tired of being a waitress, I'm getting old and need to start a new career. I was thinking about starting a career in medical billing, I think I'll enjoy doing that. For those of you that's been doing it for a while, can you give me any advice on how to get started? I don't want to waste my time going to school for it, if I can just take a short cut, take a few courses and get trained on the job? But if the only solution is to go to school for it, then I'm willing to do it. I have a 2 year old son, that's the only thing that's been getting in the way of me going to school. How much can I expect to get paid hourly, I just want to know if it's worth it. Any advice at all from you guys would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Go to college.

Answer 2

You could take a course on your home computer so you wouldn't have to leave your 2-year-old son.  The Andrews School has a medical coding program that I believe you can complete in a year or less (work at your own pace).  It is MUCH CHEAPER than going to college and this is one of the top schools in the country! (I know because I took their Medical Transcription course and am working from home!)  See this website for the current job outlook and salary information:  

http://www.medword.com/MedwordStore/ARHC...

Also, check out this site for the Medical Coding or Medical Transcription programs at The Andrews School:  

http://www.andrewsschool.com/  

If you have any questions, e-mail the school and they will be more than happy to assist you!  Good Luck to you!!!

Answer 3

I worked for a major insurance company a few years ago and you can learn medical billing either working in an office where they're willing to train you, or...you need to go to school.  I found out that there is a LOT that goes into billing and coding.  Things like HCPC codes, ICD-9 codes, HIPPA laws, etc.  You need to learn these to perform the duties because it's a very specific task.  People's medical records, insurance benefits, and pocket books are affected by every entry.  Not sure what state you live in but most have programs that will assist with daycare and school tuition and books.    

I've been home raising my youngest grandson for four years and can no longer wait tables myself (27 years experience).  I'm no hypocrite...I start school at local vocational college for medical billing and coding this month.  Some schools offer "Fast Track" classes.  Good luck.

Answer 4

According to the website for US Labor Statistics, the job prospects are good. However, you should know that, in certain areas, the job market has become saturated with coders. This site has salary information too. http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos103.htm

If I were you I would try to get an associates degree in Health Information Technology or Healthcare Administration. I would suggest looking at your community colleges website and see what degrees they offer. If you want, there are also some schools that offer online medical coding courses.

The American Academy of Professional Coders offer 3 certifications in coding. Do some research on their website and find out more information.  http://www.aapc.com/