Medical Billing and Coding Specialist - Training & Careers
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What is Medical Billing?
Medical billing is the process by which doctors receive payment for their services. As a medical billing and coding specialist you will be required to know the medical, insurance, and legal procedures pertinent to medical billing. As a medical billing and coding specialist you will also have to be proficient in the use of computers, spreadsheets, and database programs.
What is Medical Coding?
Medical coding is a process that has been developed by medical professionals, insurance companies, and the government as a means of tracking encounters between patients and doctors. This information is vital to medical advancement, understanding effectiveness of treatments, maintaining a viable health insurance system, and fair compensation for doctors. A medical coding and billing specialist should have a good memory, be precise, enjoy working with numbers, and have computer proficiency.
What Training is needed to become a Medical Coding and Billing Specialist?
Medical coding and billing training usually requires one to two years of full time study. Colleges, tech schools, community colleges, and online education providers can supply the education you will need to become a medical billing and coding specialist. Following the completion of your classes you should pursue certification with a recognized association such as the ARHCP or Association of Registered Health Care Providers, or the NHA, the National Healthcareer Association.
What Work Conditions and Wages can you expect?
Working in medical coding or medical billing, you can expect to earn a comfortable living. Work conditions are very favorable; you can expect a forty-hour work week with weekends, holidays, and evenings off. Work is clerical and takes place in a comfortable office environment.
In recent years the option of working from home has also become more popular. The growth prospect for medical billing and coding is above average over the next 10 years. The increase in medical advancements and the higher average age of the population can be credited with this growth.
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- Many programs require externships, allowing students to gain real-world experience.
- Approved A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 1984.
- Offers 22 accelerated, career-focused program options including business administration, medical assisting, and more.
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About Brightwood College
Brightwood College offers accelerated programs that combine flexible schedules and professional instruction to create a rewarding learning experience for individuals focused on gaining the skills for specific careers. Brightwood College is owned and operated by Education Corporation of America.
About Education Corporation of America
Education Corporation of America's institutions broaden access to postsecondary educational opportunities.
- Offers career placement assistance services to recent graduates.
- Approved to accept international students who wish to study in the United States.
- Programs include Medical Office Specialist, Medical Assistant, Dental Lab Technician, and Healthcare Administration.
- Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Main campus is located in Van Nuys, California, north of Los Angeles.
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- Transferable Credits
- Offers training in various types of massage therapy, physical therapy/sports rehab, and personal fitness training & wellness.
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- Committed to empowering students with education and skills to help them reach their goals since 1979.
- Online programs include business management, RN to BSN, and more.
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- Institutional accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS).
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- Online Courses