Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Programs

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Programs – Overview

Medical billing and coding certificate programs offer entry to high-demand professions in the health care industry. Though there are several distinctions between billing and coding, both often go hand in hand, dealing with medical record-keeping.

Medical coding professionals track information regarding the patient treatment, diagnostics, and procedures using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) standards.

While, billing professionals utilize the data to generate invoices, allowing health insurance companies to process reimburse claims.

The necessary qualification for both the specializations can be attained through accredited medical billing and coding certificate programs.

These programs help in acquiring and expanding the skill set and knowledge required to succeed in the career.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Programs – The Importance

Although it is possible to pursue careers in medical billing and coding without certifications, professional certification indicates acquiring knowledge and skills to work as a medical coder or biller. Here are some of the reasons to earn certification.

• Greater Employment

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of medical coding and billing will keep growing. However, with this growth, there would be an increase in job competition. Therefore, earning at least one certification will help in increasing the chances of securing employment.

• Higher Earnings

It has been noticed by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) that professionals with multiple billing and coding credentials make high salaries and enjoy higher average earnings.

• Professional Connections

Professional connections with certifications and education have more chances to new and better career opportunities.

• Personal Growth

A certification exam makes an individual work more confidently, accurately and leads to professional growth through training and knowledge.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Programs – Governing Bodies

The American Academy of Professional Coders(AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association(AHIMA) are the two main governing bodies granting certifications in medical billing and coding.

Both these organizations offer credentials showcasing specific skill sets. Therefore, professionals must understand the certifications when choosing certification programs or exams.

1. American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

AAPC was founded originally to raise outpatient medical coding standards. It has now been expanded through training and certification, covering all aspects of the healthcare industry.

Certifications are offered in medical coding, medical billing, auditing, medical documentation, and practice management.

To maintain certifications and ensure that professionals stay updated, AAPC also offers continuing education units, including webinars, courses, workshops, conferences, and local chapters.

2. American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

AHIMA-granted credentials are for those who work in health information and informatics. It focuses more on efficient, effective management of healthcare records.

While offering the two certifications specific to health information, AHIMA also offers three coding and three specialty certifications.

In addition, online education, continuing education quizzes, in-person courses and, virtual labs allow medical billing and coding professionals to stay updated and maintain certification.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Programs – The List of Top Programs

Medical coders and billers play an integral role in healthcare revenue cycle management. They review the records of healthcare services, generate bills and insurance claims, ensuring that providers receive due compensation, and patients’ insurance covers eligible expenses.

The interested applicants explore programs that offer high-quality standards and flexibility to manage this responsibility, taking their careers to the next level.

1. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix offers medical coding and billing courses, helping students manage the application of clinical data.

During the course, students examine predominant medical coding and billing manuals and will demonstrate the use of codes.

The Higher Learning Commission has accredited the University of Phoenix. It offers low tuition, where the interested applicant can graduate faster with relevant work/life experience and eligible transfer credits. For more information, visit https://www.phoenix.edu/courses/hcr201.html

2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)

Find the affordable medical billing and coding certificate programs at Southern New Hampshire University. The accredited programs are offered online and are an excellent way to keep costs even lower.

SNHU offers accomplished faculty that brings real-world experience and tech support to the classroom. One can also get support from dedicated academic and career advisors. For more information, visit https://www.snhu.edu/online-degrees/certificates

3. Strayer University

Strayer University allows students to gain an edge in the medical coding and billing field and advance their careers. Take a course, earn a certificate and validate knowledge and skills.

For more information, visit https://www.strayer.edu/online-degrees/certificates

Conclusion

Medical billing and coding certificate programs lead to higher pay, more job options, and access to advanced careers. In addition, it helps in inculcating the required hard and soft skills.

Complete training, earn certifications, and succeed in professional roles!

Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Schools