Medical Billing

Medical Billing Career Paths

Medical billing professionals with a strong background in medical coding are expected to be in particularly high demand. Other professionals will be needed to manage the entire process, check for accuracy and secure the information as required by law.

More job openings are expected in doctors’ offices because of increasing demand for detailed records, especially in large group practices. New opportunities for medical billing professionals will also happen in home healthcare services, outpatient care centers, hospitals and nursing and residential care facilities.

Examples of career paths for Herzing University graduates include:

• Medical Coder
• Insurance Claims Analyst
• Coding Specialist
• Abstractor
• Medical Office Assistant
• Coding Technician
• Medical Billing Specialist
• Medical Clerk
• Health Information Specialist

Herzing University's insurance billing and coding specialist program prepares students to work as either a medical biller or medical coder. Graduates may also choose to incorporate both career paths as some employers seek one person who is capable of performing both functions.

Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist Salary

Salaries for insurance billing and coding professionals depend on level of education, experience, credentials earned, and geographic location.

• The American Academy of Professional Coders recently compiled a salary survey in which over 5,000 members responded. See the result at AAPC Salary Survey.
• The American Health Information Management posted the results of their member salary survey from 2008. Review their findings at AHIMA Salary Survey.

Work Environment

Insurance billing and coding specialists typically work in an office environment in either a healthcare facility or agency setting. A typical work week for full-time employees is 40 hours, Monday – Friday with the possibility of paid overtime, depending on the employer. Insurance Billing and Coding Specialists often receive a comprehensive benefit package that includes health insurance, paid vacation, and a retirement savings plan such as profit-sharing or 401(k). Some employers have part-time opportunities available as well.