I took a 6 month 'Medical coding' course, should I take a 2 year course from a community college to get a job?

Question

Is 'Medical transcription' better than 'Medical coding'. Are there any jobs?

Answer 1

Coding typically has more job opportunities and pays better than transcription. But with a 6 month education, you might have trouble getting a job in coding, as most places require a 2 year degree and certifications like a RHIT.  

Answer 2

there are tons of Coding Jobs! check out PureMedicalJobs.com

Answer 3

There are not supposed to be too many jobs for the medical coder (or biller or medical assistant) despite what those private $$ schools proclaim :)  Most coders need a few years experience doing coding tasks as well as certification(s) from an accredited program.  

For transciption, I'm not sure that there are that many jobs for them either.  The 'work at home' ads are mostly a scam especially when asking for money upfront or personal information which can put one at risk for identity theft:  http://www.ftc.gov and can click on that term.

For general career info:  http://www.bls.gov/oco and can search 'medical transcriptionists' or such.  Medical coders are not mentioned in a separate entry from the 'medical records and health information technicians'.  A site for more info on health information (medical records) and coding:  http://www.ahima.org

If deciding on either career or another vo-tech field, please opt for the more affordable county vo-tech school or, as you mentioned, community college.