by Patricia Albers

Created on: November 15, 2008   Last Updated: November 20, 2008

Medical billing is a growing and profitable career field that requires a high degree of professionalism acquired from school attendance. Employers are looking for individuals that can meet the demands and high standards required of successful medical billing personnel. Students should expect to learn medical terminology, billing codes, anatomy, and of course, quick and accurate keyboarding skills. It is important to select a school that is fully accredited and that offers a recognized course of study since this is a substantial investment of both time and money.

A major consideration in choosing a school is deciding whether you will be working toward a certificate or toward a two year college degree. The decision of what school to attend revolves around the student's life circumstances; each student must decide how much time they can devote to the educational process and how it will fit in with their financial resources. For some students, time is the major factor; for others it is the cost or a combination of both. Most schools offer some sort of financial assistance in the form of loans, scholarships, or government grants. A certificate of achievement can be attained in less than a year; while not as comprehensive or valuable in terms of salary as a two-year college degree, certficates are an affordable way to enter the field of medical billing.

On-line courses are another option to consider; they are convenient and quicker than attending traditional schools, although just as costly. Many community colleges offer on-line courses leading to a two-year degree; costs are similar to college costs but offer more flexibility for time management. The drawback to on-line classes is the lack of in person social contact with teachers and fellow students. On-line courses can be an appropriate choice for stay at home moms and for people with disabilities.

When deciding to pursue a certificate or a two-year degree it is generally accepted that a two-year degree will have a better starting salary; The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that billing clerks with a two-year degree are "likely to start at higher salaries and advance more easily than those without degrees." It is important to remember that medical billing clerks can always start out with a certificate and continue by pursuing a two year degree later.

Medical billing clerks, by the nature of their occupation, need to pursue attendance in a school that meets their unique and individual needs. The school environment ensures that they have the skills and resources they will need to succeed in the highly competitive workplace. School provides the best opportunity for medical billing personnel to be of service in a demanding workforce.

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