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Choosing Medical Billing and Coding Training

Choosing Medical Billing and Coding Training

Published by: Melissa C. - OMG, LLC. CEO on September 23, 2005

Choosing Medical Billing and Coding Training

Medical billing is a complicated process designed for only the most skilled workers. Although training is necessary, certification is not a requirement. However, choosing the right training program with the correct certifications is the key to success in medical billing.

First we will take a look at three of the most notable training programs available for medical billing and coding today. The first program is a web-based program called Universal Class. The great thing about Universal Class is the ability to work at your own pace in a non-credit type of atmosphere. The medical billing courses are taught by knowledgeable instructors at affordable prices.

One difficulty of courses taught completely web-based and at your own pace is the temptation to learn too quickly. Many people want to get done with courses and certification as quickly as possible. They cram all the information into their heads in as little time as possible but run the risk of losing it all down the road. The ability to self-pace and self-motivate are requirements of completely web-based medical billing courses. The most important thing is information retention, not speed.

Another quality medical billing training program is Aakers College Online. They offer a top of the line medical billing and coding program designed to help you achieve certification. Aakers also offers complete online courses taught by medical billing professionals. Unlike Universal Class, however, they also have a physical location where students can enroll and go to medical billing classes in person. This allows for a more structured learning environment. One drawback is that this school does not always accept new students. If interested, it is wise to plan ahead to assure yourself a spot.

Anthem College is yet another quality medical billing training program designed to help you achieve certifications. This is another program that is mostly web-based. The great feature of this medical billing program is the externship that allows you to participate in an actual medical billing facility performing billing tasks. This lasts for four weeks and allows you to get your feet wet in the medical billing industry before they send you out into the real world on your own.

Certifications are beneficial tools to help you land a successful job as a medical biller. There are many certifications to choose from. Some of these medical billing certifications mean more then others. Perhaps the most important certification is with the National Healthcare Association (NHA). This organization offers certification for current healthcare professionals or students who recently have completed an NHA course. This is one of the most widely accepted certifications for medical billing.

Sometimes joining organizations can lead to the ability to sit for certain certification exams. An example of this is the American Association of Medical Billers (AAMB). After finishing medical billing and coding training, it is beneficial to join the AAMB because they allow you to sit for the Certified Medical Biller exam. The Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS) exam is another option when you join the AAMB. both of these certifications are looked highly upon by employers in the medical field.

Another organization that allows for medical billing certification is the Association of Registered Professionals (ARMP). When you become a member of this association, you are allowed and encouraged to take certification tests to advance in the medical billing profession. Other certifications include: Certified Medical Coding and Billing Specialist, Certified Procedural Coder, Certified Coding Specialist for the Physician’s Office, and Certified Coding Specialist.

Becoming a medical biller or coder can be a fairly straightforward process if one chooses the right training program and professional organizations to join. Each one of these can lead you to medical billing certifications that are sure to impress any employer.

Published by: on September 23, 2005

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