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Coding Specialist
When a patient receives medical care, a Coding Specialist reviews the patient’s medical record in order to provide the correct code for billing, which will be paid by a health insurance company, the patient, Medicare, or Medicaid. Coding accuracy is critical, not only to ensure billing system efficiency, but also to provide the data that researchers use to monitor patterns and develop new medical interventions.
To assign codes correctly, you use your knowledge of anatomy and medical terminology to review doctors’ notes and diagnoses, lab tests, and other medical services and procedures. You must also have a working knowledge of standardized codes, different types of insurance plans, and insurance regulations.
At Baker, you’ll develop a solid foundation in the medical and the business aspects of coding. Our classes are small, taught by faculty who are highly experienced in the coding field, and include opportunities for hands-on, real-world training. When you complete our program, you’ll have the skills and knowledge you need to take the exam to become a Certified Professional Coder.
Career Facts
- The average annual wage for a Coding Specialist is $32,960.
- Job growth in this field should be much faster than average. Employment is expected to increase by 20 percent through 2018.
- Strong computer software skills will become increasingly important as technology changes the world of medical records keeping; there will be an increased need for Coding Specialists with the most current knowledge of new technologies.
- Coding Specialists work in doctor’s offices, clinics, surgery centers, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, dental offices, home health care agencies, consulting firms, coding and billing services, and government agencies.
- You can advance in this field with specialty certification by becoming a health information manager, which usually requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Programs
- Certificate
Want to get the ball rolling?
Everything about our college is aimed at getting you the job you want in the shortest time possible — from our affordable tuition, to how we choose our programs, to our small class sizes, and flexible class schedules.
Discover what Baker can do for your future. Schedule a visit or enroll online today.
