What is a Medical Coding Coach?

Medical coding happens every time you see a healthcare provider. The healthcare provider reviews your complaint and medical history, makes an expert assessment of what’s wrong and how to treat you, and documents your visit. That documentation is not only the patient’s ongoing record, it’s how the healthcare provider gets paid.  Medical codes translate that documentation into standardized codes that tell payers the following:  Patient's diagnosis Medical necessity for treatments, services, or supplies the patient received Treatments, services, and supplies provided to the patient Any unusual circumstances or medical condition that affected those treatments and services Like a musician who interprets the written music and uses their instrument to produce what's intended, A Certified Medical Coder requires the ability to understand anatomy, physiology, and details of the services, and the rules and regulations of the payers to succeed.  Have you thought about using a medical coding coach to help you navigate the career path?

Medical billing is the preparation of invoices for procedures rendered, and these are given to patients and insurance companies. Medical billers act as the financial waypoint between patients, providers, and payers. Without billers, healthcare providers couldn’t be reimbursed for the procedures they perform. The training videos in this section cover the key concepts and guidelines that underpin the billing process. You’ll learn how the insurance process works, and what types of payers affect the reimbursement process. Finally, we’ll discuss Medicare, Medicaid, and the regulations enforced under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

There are several ways to obtain an education to be come a certified medical coder or biller.  There is the traditional classroom approach at your local college or a business college.  

There is a program through the AAPC where you can take the program with an instructor or without one (self paced).

AHIMA offers several certifications and there are programs that offer their curriculum all over the US.  Sometimes you might need a medical coding coach to understand the real differences between these two accrediting agencies.

Some of the known places for medical coding and billing are Penn Foster, DeVry, Kaiser, and Phoenix University.  Check your local area for a college or business school near you but before you do that check your local job board to find out what is requested in your area.  Do your research.  

There are two major associations that offer certification for medical coders and billers.  They are the AAPC and AHIMA.  The American Academy of Professional Coders, AAPC was founded in 1988 to provide professional certification to physician-based medical coders and to elevate the standards of medical coding. Since then, AAPC has grown to more than 200,000 members worldwide and now offers 28 certifications encompassing the entire business side of healthcare.

AHIMA ,The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is the leading voice and authority in health information, wherever it is found. Our people work at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and business.  While our patients don’t often see us, we see our patients in a way no other healthcare professional does. That is because AHIMA-certified professionals ensure that sensitive health stories remain accurate, accessible, protected and complete—at all times.  As the global nonprofit association of health information professionals, our mission of empowering people to impact health is a prescient rallying cry during the Covid-19 pandemic.  During these changing times, careers in health information offer a path forward. AHIMA-certified professionals are leading healthcare organizations through meaningful innovation. In an industry that values education and experience, AHIMA credentials are proof of a robust education and an ongoing commitment to staying relevant in a complex and evolving space.

 What is a Medical Coding Coach?    My definition of what is a medical coding coach is unique since I have been in the field for many years as a medical coder and I have found that there is a void in the profession.  I think the of a medical coding coach as a cross between a true friend who believes in you to someone who understands the career. 

Sometimes it seems to me  like there a big black hole. There is a missing component between certification process and the workplace.  I hear from certified professionals daily with questions that our top organizations do not answer.  Some of them are looking to start their careers in the field and need guidance while others are struggling to locate a job in the field.  They do not have anyone helping them navigate the workplace.  I want to fill that void.  I am not interested in being another recruiter but someone who can truly teach you how to navigate your career.  

Why should you hire a Medical Coding Coach?

The best reason for hiring a medical coding coach is for the services they are offer.   The best thing about a MCC is to have peace of mind that you have someone in your corner that will help you navigate the job market. An experienced medical coding coach can help you overcome time management issues, testing anxiety and also build confidence.

How much can I expect to make as a medical coder?   

CPC's make between $20 and $30 per hour, which varies by location, experience, and additional credentialing.  You can make more if you have experience and work in the hospital setting versus the outpatient side.  Going on to pursue more certifications such as a specialist in medical auditing can open even more doors.