Determine If I Need to be Certified to Get a Job in Medical Coding

Phebe A. Durand
certified, job, medical, coding

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Are medical coders really in demand? In a word YES! People around the world are living longer, healthier lives and there are more health care options than ever. Researchers are finding new treatments and better options for people with health problems. This boom has created a lot of new jobs � and a serious demand for medical coders. How do you get in and what do you need to get a job in medical coding?

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Look at the specialties. Jobs in medical coding have specialties that you might already have experience in claims reviewers, billing coordinators, account representatives and collectors.;

Find help wanted ads. Look online and in medical journals to find the companies wanting medical coders. Take notes about what qualifications they want.;

Compare the job requirements you find through your research with your own experience to determine if you are already qualified for a position in medical coding.;

Read what the pros have to say. They've been in this job for a while and know what will get you the job and get you ahead. See the "Tips from the Pros" section of MedicalCodingandBilling.com.;

Take a look at the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Here you'll find information on what training is necessary and what's recommended.

Be realistic. Remember that in any job, the more training you have the more money you'll make. A job in medical coding requires a lot of knowledge, and you might be better off just going for the certification to begin with.;

Emphasize your strengths. If you decide you don't need certification, put together a resume that really shows off the experience you have in medical coding related tasks.

American Health Management Information Association - http://www.ahima.org/;

American Association for Medical Transcription - http://www.aamt.org/;

American Bureau of Health Education Schools - http://www.abhes.org;

Tips from the Pros - http://www.medicalcodingandbilling.com/tips_from_pros.htm;

Occupational Outlook Handbook - http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos103.htm

Published by Phebe A. Durand

A journalist turned instructor who decided that a steady income wasn't worth creative frustration, Phebe Durand (Lolaness) now focuses on ways that technology can enrich our lives, her works range from writi...  View profile

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