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5 Reasons to Learn Medical Billing and Coding

A job in medical coding and billing involves interpreting patients’ files into medical codes that are used by insurance and billing companies. There are many benefits of medical coding and billing. In this article, we will outline what some of the greatest benefits are and the top reasons to consider pursuing a career in medical coding and billing.

  • High Demand for Medical Billers and Coders

Medical billers and coders are currently in high demand. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field is expected to grow 9% nationally from 2023 to 2033 ¹, which they claim is much faster than average.

This growth is due to the growing age of the United States population. As the senior population in the country grows, there can be a greater demand for medical care that requires the special talents of medical billers and coders. Additionally, as technology continues to grow a greater number of records are being digitized, adding to the demand of skilled professionals in this field.

  • You Can Start Your Career in Less Than 18 Months

A great benefit of pursuing a career in medical coding and billing is the short amount of time it can take to earn a diploma. As part of STVT’s medical billing and coding program, a diploma can be earned in as little as 15 months.

Being able to earn your diploma in a short amount of time is a huge benefit that will allow you to potentially enter the field sooner and begin utilizing your valuable skills in a fulfilling career.

  • Variety of Work Settings and Flexible Schedule

One of the greatest benefits of a medical coding and billing career is being able to work in a variety of settings and the potential to have a flexible schedule. Many medical billing and coding specialists are able to work from home. If working outside the house is preferred, other possible work settings for medical billers and coders include hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, nursing facilities, home healthcare providers, medical practices, and outpatient centers. 

Though scheduling would ultimately be determined by each individual business or organization, medical billers and coders could benefit from more flexibility by seeking part-time or work-from-home situations that offer such options. 

  • Opportunities for Growth

As you continue through your career, you may want to add additional certifications to continue to specialize and grow with your craft. Deciding to pursue certifications can lead to higher earning potential and more advancement opportunities within your field. 

Future positions that you may aspire to in this career field include certified pediatrics coder, certified cardiology coder, certified professional coding instructor, certified professional compliance officer, and certified documentation expert outpatient specialist. These specialized opportunities can help keep your career fresh and exciting as you continue to learn and grow.

  • A Rewarding Career

While medical coding and billing specialists don’t work directly with patients in a clinical manner, their work is still important to ensure healthcare is more accessible to everyone. Without medical billing and coding specialists, healthcare settings could not operate efficiently and effectively. 

Furthermore, ensuring that claims are coded and processed correctly helps ensure that patients are properly billed per their insurance coverage, preventing excess costs and stress. Medical billing and coding specialists also make sure that patient data is properly protected and kept confidential– a vital task, especially in today’s digital landscape. 

Essentially, medical billers and coders help to keep the healthcare industry running as it should, which is a noble and important profession to have. 

Take the First Steps to a Career in Medical Billing and Coding

If you are interested in potentially pursuing a fulfilling career as a medical billing and coding specialist STVT’s medical billing and coding program is a great option. Our program covers the necessary skills for coding medical procedures and billing and also offers externship opportunities to gain real-world experience in the field.

If you are ready to begin a career in medical billing and coding call STVT today at 866-480-9766 or fill out this form to get more information.

Blog Disclaimer: Information within this blog is for general information purposes only. STVT does not assume or guarantee certification/licensures, specific job/career positions, income earning potential, or salary expectations based on the programs offered at STVT. Career and program information statements in this blog do not guarantee that programs or other information mentioned are offered at STVT.

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¹ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Records Specialists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm (visited November 14, 2024).