Medical records and health information technicians manage health data in physicians' offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They collect patient data and use various classification systems to code, organize, and secure this information in clinical databases and registries.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects this occupation to grow 8% between 2019-2029, exceeding the 4% average growth rate for all occupations. These professionals also make a median annual pay of $42,630, higher than the $39,810 pay for all workers. Students interested in entering this field need a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree from an accredited medical billing and coding program. Employers may also require certification.
Community and technical colleges typically offer associate degrees in medical billing and coding. The curriculum provides students with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to enter this fast-growing profession. An online medical billing and coding program gives students the flexibility to continue working while earning the degree.
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FAQ
What Can I Do With a Medical Billing and Coding Degree?
The healthcare field will add more jobs between 2019-2029 than any other occupational cluster, according to the BLS. An aging population, as well as the ongoing pandemic, contribute to the high demand for healthcare services. Medical coders play an important role in the healthcare system.
These professionals maintain records and reports, receive patients, perform accounting duties, and complete other administrative tasks as required. Medical coders can work in roles such as medical coding specialist, health information technician, and medical records technician. Coders with a degree and some experience may pursue managerial positions.
Some schools offer a medical office management or medical administrative track as part of a medical billing and coding associate degree program. These tracks provide students with the training they need to pursue managerial positions right out of college.
Those interested in a medical billing and coding career can also work in niche markets. Cancer registrar is one such career option. These professionals work for registries that collect data about cancer, patients, and treatments.
Accreditation for a Medical Billing and Coding Program
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards with respect to factors like academic rigor, student learning outcomes, and faculty qualifications. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. Six regional accreditation agencies accredit the majority of two- and four-year colleges in the United States.
Programs within a school may also hold accreditation. For instance, the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) grants accreditation to medical billing and coding programs.
Accreditation impacts students in important ways. For instance, only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited schools. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with an accredited degree. Students can verify a school or program's accreditation status through the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
What Are the Requirements for a Medical Billing and Coding Program?
A medical billing and coding program typically leads to an associate of science (AS) or associate of applied science (AAS) degree. AS and AAS degrees usually require fewer general education credits than an associate of arts. The general education credits often focus on coursework applicable to the degree. For instance, students may learn technical math instead of algebra.
The technical curriculum provides an overview of healthcare topics, such as pharmacology, pathophysiology, and medical law and ethics. Students build on this foundation by studying medical terminology and intermediate and advanced coding. Many programs give students hands-on experience through a practicum or internship in a healthcare facility.
Full-time students typically complete the degree in about two years. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate, and some schools require the completion of placement tests such as the ACCUPLACER.
The following list outlines courses commonly found in medical billing and coding programs.
Courses in a Medical Billing and Coding Program
This course gives students an overview of the healthcare field. Students explore the healthcare delivery system and the various roles that healthcare professionals play within it. Students may also learn about the personal and professional qualities workers need to succeed in the field, including technical, teamwork, and time management skills.
Professional Organizations for Medical Billing and Coding Students
Professional organizations provide resources and tools for career advancement. They may offer professional development opportunities through certifications, training, in-person and/or virtual networking events, and news and publications. They may also offer exclusive job boards.
American Health Information Management Association
A leading authority for health information, AHIMA advocates for the field while giving members access to certifications, continuing education opportunities, publications, and various events. AHIMA offers student membership discounts.
American Academy of Professional Coders
With more than 190,000 members, AAPC is the world's largest training and credentialing organization for healthcare professionals. The organization offers the CPT exam and other popular certifications. AAPC also offers networking events, books and software, and continuing education opportunities. Students receive a membership discount.
American Medical Billing Association
AMBA's membership consists of medical billers and coders. AMBA offers two certifications: certified medical reimbursement specialist and certified medical coding specialist. Members receive access to webinars, continuing education, a job board, and networking events.
Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education
CAHIIM awards accreditation to educational programs that specialize in health informatics (HI) and health information management (HIM). While students cannot join the organization, CAHIIM provides a repository of useful resources such as information about HI and HIM programs and a directory of accredited schools.
Scholarships for Medical Billing and Coding Students
Scholarships provide students with education funding. The eligibility guidelines vary depending on each sponsoring organization. Some organizations award scholarships based on financial need, while others offer awards based on academic merit or major. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for students pursuing an associate degree in medical billing and coding.
AHIMA Foundation Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: AHIMA offers scholarship funding for students in medical billing and coding programs focused on health informatics or health information management. Eligibility requirements include AHIMA membership and a minimum 3.5 GPA.Amount: $1,000
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The HIMSS Foundation awards scholarships to students enrolled in an accredited program related to health information and technology. Eligibility requirements include at least junior status, HIMSS membership, a resume, and letters of recommendation.Amount: $5,000
SkillPointe Foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This foundation awards scholarships to students pursuing a degree at a community or technical college. SkillPointe awards two scholarships each month. Students must complete an essay to qualify.Amount: $1,000
