ANSWERS: 1
  • To become a medical billing specialist or a medical assistant, you need to take courses in medical billing and coding. Depending on the program and your personal career goals, you can spend one to two years training in a medical billing program. Most medical billing programs require a high school diploma, and one year in training that results in a certification. Two years results in certification as well as an associate degree in the subject.

    Education

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics "Medical Assistants" description, medical billing specialists are not required to earn any formal degrees to enter into the field. However, most medical billing specialists undergo one to two years of training in addition to passing exams for certification. The best way to prepare for a career as a medical billing specialist is to complete a medical assistant or medical billing program that is accredited by a professional medical billing organization. There are a number of organizations for medical billing professionals, such as the American Academy of Professional Coders. More information about this organization can be found in Resources. The study of medical billing focuses on learning the basics of anatomy and physiology, basic computer skills, keyboarding skills, transcription, medical billing processing, insurance policies and procedures, and additional courses that focus on health management.

    Certification

    Certification in medical billing is an excellent way to make your resume stand out when you're looking to begin your career in the field. The article Medical Billing/Claims Examining/Patient Accounting by Susan Hvizdash on HealthCareJobs.org explains that certification in medical billing is offered by a number of professional organizations, vocational schools and career training institutes. You should determine your certification by decided what aspect of medical billing you wish to specialize in, as well as what examination programs are offered in your area.

    Job Duties

    Medical billing specialists primarily make sure that the billing of health-related services is done accurately, legally and efficiently. Medical billing specialists use computers, computer databases and additional office equipment to track changes and keep record of patient information. An attention to detail is necessary, as is the ethical motivation to keep private records safely maintained. Medical billing specialists also work closely with patients, doctors and other health professionals, so excellent communication skills are needed as well.

    Source:

    BLS.gov: Medical Assistants

    HealthCareJobs.org: Medical Billing/Claims Examining/Patient Accounting; Susan Hvizdash

    More Information:

    American Academy of Professional Coders.com: Medical Coding Certification

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