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FAQ
WHAT DOES A MEDICAL BILLER AND CODER DO?
Medical Billers and Coders are responsible for processing patient data including medical records and related insurance. In this position, you will code a patient’s diagnosis and then request payment from the patient’s insurance company. You will play an important role in ensuring that healthcare providers are quickly and accurately paid for the treatment they give patients.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR A MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING CAREER?
IS MEDICAL BILLING AND CODING A GOOD CAREER?
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MEDICAL BILLING
AND MEDICAL CODING?
Yes. Medical coders translate patient care into current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the medical services provided are accurately coded. Medical billers are responsible for creating a claim based on the codes a medical coder provides. Many professionals in this area do both medical billing and medical coding.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CERTIFICATION EXAMS (CPC, AND CBCS)?
Obtaining a CPC or CBCS certification implies that an individual has met competencies in the field of medical billing and coding. Certification is invaluable to the student's career goals. Students have an opportunity to make confident, informed decisions about the national certification they prefer.
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The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is the gold standard entry-level coding certification for physician, or professional fee, coders.
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The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) is offered by the National Healthcare Association (NHA) and is currently an entry-level medical billing and coding certification with the inclusion of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II testing.
Entry-level positions typically require completion of a certificate and passing one of the certification exams or an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. Additionally, medical billing and coding professionals must understand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
U.S. News & World Report ranked medical records technician (professionals that perform medical billing, medical coding or both) as #9 on its list of “25 Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree,” #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs” and on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list.