Medical Coding & Billing Specialist: Duties & Job Market

For every procedure - whether it's a routine test or a life-or-death surgery - there's a unique code that helps doctors record their diagnosis, store patient data, and file an insurance claim. A medical coding and billing specialist is responsible for assigning those codes and ensuring that facilities are reimbursed for the procedures.

Duties of a medical coding & billing specialist
The day-to-day tasks of a medical coding and billing specialist are fairly straightforward. As hospitals and physicians perform a wide range of services, medical coding and billing specialists assign a code to each procedure. That code allows for reimbursement through the patient's insurance provider. Regulations are strict, especially for patients on Medicare. No code, no compensation - which means medical coding and billing specialists are an indispensable part of any medical office.

Where to find medical coding & billing specialist jobs
Medical coding and billing specialists provide a vital link between medical facilities and insurance companies. It's no surprise, then, that you'll find medical coding and billing specialists in nearly every healthcare facility. Hospitals, physicians, nursing homes, and outpatient centers all rely on medical coding and billing specialists to ensure that insurance claims are filed quickly and accurately.

Medical coding & billing specialist programs
Medical coding and billing specialists are typically expected to hold an associate's degree in coding. Online programs are often available through community colleges, and coursework focuses on terminology, anatomy, data standards, statistics, database management, and legal issues. Medical coding and billing specialists who wish to advance their career may pursue certification through the Board of Medical Specialty Coding, the Professional Association of Healthcare Coding Specialists, or the American Academy of Professional Coders.

Demand for medical coding & billing specialist jobs
The field of health information is growing rapidly, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 18 percent growth in job prospects between 2006 and 2016. Candidates with a strong background in medical coding will be in especially high demand, as strict insurance policies and ever-changing government regulations make accurate medical records even more important. If you have a penchant for number-crunching and a keen eye for detail, a career as a medical coding and billing specialist may be a good fit.

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