Bachelor in Medical Billing and Coding

Medical billing and coding is an area within the healthcare that helps students learn how to manage billing for medical offices. Students who want to start a career in healthcare can obtain a degree or certificate in this field and find rewarding jobs.

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According to the BLS, the employment of medical billers and coders is expected to increase by 21% by 2020. This means you can find exciting career opportunities in this line of work once you complete the educational requirements. Forbes has claimed this profession as one of the Least Stressful Jobs of 2013. The training requirements are simple and the responsibilities are not as demanding as other healthcare occupations. So if you want to make money fast and easy, medical biller and coder is the profession for you.

Bachelor in Medical Billing and Coding Program
A variety of degree and certificate programs are available in the field of medical billing and coding. Though you can build a career based on a diploma or an associate degree, the advanced programs can be useful in a competitive job market. Both regular and online schools offer the bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding, which takes 4 years to complete. This advanced degree prepares you for the dynamic field by providing you with training in the technical as well as administrative aspects.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required to enroll in a bachelor's degree. Other admissions-related factors vary by school.

Some of the courses students can pursue in the bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding are medical reimbursement, check-in procedures, computerized record keeping, business communications, and patient discharge. You will also learn how to make insurance claims and manage compliance issues. The coursework may also include topics such as health information technology and health reimbursement & legal issues. In addition to classroom instruction, students are also required to complete externships in hospitals or medical offices where they get practical training in the field.

Online Programs
Some schools also offer medical and billing programs online. The distance learning classes can be a suitable option for those of you who want to switch careers or the ones who reside in remote areas. Online degrees help you gain valuable credentials while still maintaining employment or just a busy lifestyle.

Important Qualities
Medical billers and coders should have strong communication skills. They should also have good interpersonal skills as they have to work with patients, doctors, physicians, and other staff in the field. Patience and an interest in details are also among the qualities required by these medical experts.

Career Prospects for Medical Billers and Coders
As the employment of medical billers is expected to grow faster than the average of other occupations, this profession can be a smart choice for those who want growth prospects. Medical billers and coders can work in a variety of settings such as insurance firms, medical offices, and government agencies. Compensation is subject to location, experience and qualification. They can make between $21,000 and $53,000 a year. Most of these professionals work full-time. Some may choose to work evenings or overnight shifts as well.

How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding?

Typically, it takes four years to get a bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding. If you complete a two-year associate's program before you enroll in a bachelor's program, you can transfer your credit hours and complete your bachelor's program in a less time. You could also choose an accelerated program and get your bachelor's degree earlier.

What are the requirements to get a bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding?

A bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding will allow you to work within the medical field without spending too much time training for it. However, there are some courses and skills you are required to complete to get this degree. Students in this program are required to take courses on the following subjects, among others:

•    Anatomy and Physiology

•    Insurance Claim Procedures

•    Medical Coding

•    Medical Terminology

How much can I earn after I get a bachelor's degree in medical billing and coding?

Generally, those with a degree in medical billing and coding work as billing clerks in hospitals. According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for billing and posting clerks in the top ten percentile as was $26.68 as of May 2018. The median annual wage for the bottom ten percentile in the same year was $12.90. The median annual wage for this category was $37,800.