How to Become a Medical Coder

FAQ on Becoming a Medical Coder

• 1. Who hires medical coders?

  Nearly every single health care provider uses coded documentation and records. A single hospital may have 50 coders working at any given time — but hospitals are just one of the potential work environments. Inpatient and outpatient facilities, urgent and semi-urgent care facilities, clinics, nursing homes, sports medicine offices, mental health facilities and, of course, doctor’s offices are just a few of the places where well-trained, reliable coders can find a career.

• 2. How do I search for a job or internship?

  General career networks like LinkedIn and Indeed.com list job openings specific to medical coders. But you should also check out industry-specific sites, like the American Association of Professional Coders, which lists a huge selection of jobs.

• 3. How should I prepare for a job interview?

  Just as with any interview, you should start by doing your homework and learning as much as you can about the facility or organization you're hoping to join. You should also prepare some questions of your own for the interviewer. Not only will this provide you with the answers you're looking for, but asking questions demonstrates genuine interest in your prospective employer and shows that you have a thoughtful, inquisitive nature. Also, you should expect to be asked to move beyond book learning and participate in what-would-you-do-if hypothetical scenarios.

• 4. Can medical coding be done at home?

  Yes! Many organizations allow or even encourage telecommuting. Working from home can make the job easier for you and cheaper for your employer, all without sacrificing quality or precision, thanks to advancements like collaborative workflow programs, application-based software and videoconferencing. Flexjobs.com lists hundreds of coding jobs, many of which can be done in the comfort of your own home.

• 5. How can I network with like-minded professionals and prospective employers?

  Medical coders — as well as the people and groups that hire, educate, certify and advise them — are organized into trade associations, academies, industry organizations, forums and networking groups. Some of the most prominent and reputable among them are explored further down the page.

• 6. How do I get certified in medical coding?

  To be certified as a medical coder, you’ll have to pass one of the credentialing exams. Some credentials, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA) require work experience or medical coding school before you take the exam. Others, such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) don’t have a work requirement but do require an associate’s degree.

• 7. Is a medical coding certificate worth it?

  Depending on the position and employer, a medical coding certificate will help you acquire an entry-level or intermediate level position.These jobs consider a medical coding certificate a core credential. The field is expected to grow significantly over the next decade. And given the affordability of many medical coding programs, you can get an excellent return on your investment.