How to Kickstart Your Career in Medical Coding

• Research and Understand the Role: Familiarize yourself with the responsibilities of a medical coder. Understand that coders translate medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into alphanumeric codes for billing, insurance claims, and data analysis.
• Education and Training: Most medical coding positions require a post-secondary education in medical coding or a related field. Most coders choose one of these education paths:
  • Certificate Programs: Short-term programs (6-12 months) that focus specifically on medical coding.
  • Associate degree: A two-year program that offers a broader understanding of healthcare and medical coding concepts.
  • Online Courses: Many reputable institutions offer online courses that can be completed at your own pace.
• Choose the Right Coding System: Familiarize yourself with the coding systems used in medical coding:
  • ICD-10-CM: International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification. This system codes diagnoses.
  • ICD-10-PCS: International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Procedure Coding System. This system codes procedures for inpatient facilities.
  • CPT: Current Procedural Terminology. This system codes medical procedures and services.
  • HCPCS: Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System. This system codes medical equipment, supplies, and services not covered by CPT.
• Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining a medical coding certification can significantly enhance your job prospects. Recommended certifications include:
  • AAPC's Certified Professional Coder (CPC): Focuses on outpatient and professional fee coding and is widely recognized in the industry.
  • AHIMA's Certified Coding Specialist (CCS): Covers both acute inpatient and outpatient coding.
• Gain Experience: Practical experience is crucial and sometimes required before you can get your first full-time coding position. Consider internships, entry-level positions, or volunteering opportunities at healthcare facilities, clinics, or hospitals. This will help you apply your theoretical knowledge and build a strong foundation. AHIMA has a mentorship program that is great for new coders!
• Networking: Attend healthcare-related events, workshops, seminars, and conferences to meet professionals in the field. Networking can help you stay updated on industry trends and open up potential job opportunities. 
• Develop Soft Skills: Effective communication, attention to detail, time management, and critical thinking are essential skills for a medical coder. These soft skills are what sets the rockstar coders apart from the others.
• Job Search and Resume Building: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant education, certifications, and any experience you've gained. Look for job postings in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and healthcare agencies. List specific Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, patient types (Inpatient, Outpatient, etc.), and specialties that you have experience with to quickly showcase where your expertise lies.
• Job Interviews: Prepare for your interview by researching common interview questions for medical coding roles and by researching the company that you are interviewing with. Be ready to showcase your knowledge, skills, and how you can contribute to the organization. Know what type of position you are looking for; i.e., what type of coding you prefer and will highlight your most proficient areas.
• Stay Updated: Medical coding is subject to changes and updates. Stay informed about coding system revisions, regulations, and industry best practices by regularly reading relevant publications and participating in continuing education. HIAlearn.com offers tailored training plans for students as well courses on annual Coding Updates. 

Remember, building a successful career in medical coding takes time and dedication. Keep learning, adapting, and growing to stay competitive in the field.

Since 1992, HIA has been the leading provider of compliance audits, coding support services and clinical documentation audit services for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, physician groups and other healthcare entities. HIA offers PRN support as well as total outsource support.

The information contained in this coding advice is valid at the time of posting. Viewers are encouraged to research subsequent official guidance in the areas associated with the topic as they can change rapidly.