by Caitlyn Carlson

Created on: November 16, 2008   Last Updated: November 20, 2008

Career overlook

Medical billing is a career with plenty of demand and growth. In 2004 there were over 13 million jobs in medical billing and has grown since. In this very in-demand industry the average annual salary is $25,000 dollars but can range from $18,000 to $30,000 for beginners and $30,000 to $80,000 for experts. Going into a career in medical billing one can expect to find work in a hospital or clinic, home agencies or insurance agencies, long term care facilities, government agencies and private industries. The work environment is usually casual but fast-paced. Work can be full time or part time, just depending on the specific job. The employee uses sophisticated computer software to collect and maintain data for goods, services or clients. They also submit claims to companies and government agencies to obtain information for payment to the health care provider.

Credentials and education

The only required education to get into medical billing is a high school diploma or equivalent, although there are a few factors that will contribute to a career in medical billing. Encouraged high school courses include anatomy, biology, algebra, English, computer skills, typing data processing and health care occupations. It is also well-advised to take a course(s) in billing from an accredited training school or vocational. Other then the traditional methods of studying there are a variety of accredited online courses in billing as well. In this increasingly competitive field it is important but not necessary to have been trained in billing and/or coding. It's good to stand out in a crowd!

Personal skills

Personal skills are very important to being in a career in medical billing. A lot of time is spent talking to customers (and they come in all sorts) so customer service skills and excellent people skill are an essential to being successful in this industry. Knowledge of medical terminology will usually be required due to work in a medical facility where the terms will be used. Proper medical form completion procedures are a must to all jobs in medical billing as you will certainly be completing medical forms. Being computer literate is expected as you will be most likely working on a computer with advanced softwares. Typing skills should at least be 35 words per minute if not more. (If you can type faster, you have an even better chance of successfully being employed in this industry.) An eye for detail and good memory are very important to remembering the plethora of codes that are required.

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