Steps to Becoming a Certified Medical Coder or Biller [2023] - Medical Coding Jobs and Career

Monday, May 1, 2023

Steps to Becoming a Certified Medical Coder or Biller [2023]

 Steps to Becoming a Certified Medical Coder or Biller [2023]

Becoming a certified medical coder or biller involves several steps, including obtaining the necessary education and training, gaining practical experience, and passing a certification exam. Here are the details of each step, along with an example:

Steps to Becoming a Certified Medical Coder or Biller [2023]
 Steps to Becoming a Certified Medical Coder or Biller [2023]


Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Education and Training 


The first step in becoming a certified medical coder or biller is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, you need to complete a post-secondary education program in medical billing and coding. These programs are usually offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and online training programs. They typically take between 9 and 18 months to complete and include courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical billing, and coding.

Example: You can enroll in a medical billing and coding program at a community college or an online training program. For example, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers online courses in medical coding and billing.


Step 2: Gain Practical Experience

 

After completing your education program, you will need to gain practical experience in medical billing and coding. This can be done through an internship, apprenticeship, or entry-level job in a medical facility or billing company. During your training, you will learn how to use medical coding software, understand medical documentation, and accurately code medical procedures and diagnoses.

Example: You can apply for an internship or entry-level job at a hospital, clinic, or medical billing company to gain practical experience in medical billing and coding.


Step 3: Obtain Certification


Once you have completed your education and training, you can become certified as a medical coder or biller. There are several organizations that offer certification, including the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). To become certified, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of medical coding and billing principles and practices.

Example: You can take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the AAPC to become a certified medical coder. Or you can take the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) exam offered by AHIMA to become a certified medical biller.

 

In summary, to become a certified medical coder or biller, you should obtain the necessary education and training, gain practical experience, and obtain certification through a recognized organization such as AAPC or AHIMA. By following these steps, you can establish yourself as a competent and qualified professional in the field of medical coding and billing.

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