Medical coding is booming and a great career option in high demand, especially during the ongoing pandemic. Even in healthcare, one of the fastest growing industries for job seekers, people who know how to use a computer are essential. When we go to the doctor, come home and wait for the bill or report, that's when the medical coders come into play. You are responsible for collecting patient information. Pursuing a career in medical coding can be exciting and challenging at the same time. This blog serves as a guide to everything related to taking a medical coding class.
Medical Coding is the process of converting Verbal Descriptions into numeric or alpha numeric by using ICD 10-CM, CPT && HCPCS. As per HIPAA rules, healthcare providers need efficient Medical Coders.
Medical Coding Overview
- Course: Medical coding
- Duration: 1 - 3 Years
- Qualification: MBBS, BSMS, BHMS, BDS, B.Sc/M.Sc (Life Sciences / Biology / Bio-Chemistry / Micro Biology / Nursing / Bio-Technology), B.P.T, B.E BIOMEDIAL, B.Tech (Biotechnology/Bio-Chemistry).
- Exams Required: Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and others
- Salary: The average annual salary ranges between INR 4-6 Lakhs (India)
Top Medical Coding Courses in India
- Henry Harvin
- Igmpi (Amci-Academy Of Medical Coders In India)
- South Indian Medical Coding Academy (Simca)
- Elate Academy
- Udemy
- Cigma Medical Coding Academy
- Medesun Healthcare Solutions
- Acusis Medical Coding Training (Amct)
Scope and content of Medical Coding
The scale of medical coders is increasing dramatically, with medical coder employment projected to increase by 15% through 2024. Medical coders can work in all types of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, medical facilities, rehabilitation centres, retirement homes, and doctors. Offices, medical laboratories, etc. Medical coders can be employed as
- Medical records coordinator
- Coders
- Specialist in medical coding
- Medical billing specialist
- Medical records technician
- Health information specialist
- Medical records clerk
- Health information clerk
Medical Coding Salary for Freshers and Experienced
The average starting salary of a medical coder is Rs 4-6 lakhs per year, and experienced medical coders can earn up to Rs 15 lakhs per year.
Career Growth in Medical Coding
Medical coders have tremendous growth opportunities. With experience and advanced certifications, you can specialize in fields such as oncology, cardiology, or surgical coding. Senior medical coders can earn up to INR 15 lakhs annually, making this a rewarding career option.
CPC Exam - A Key to Better Opportunities
The CPC exam is a globally recognized certification that helps professionals excel in medical coding jobs. Passing this exam opens doors to high-paying roles in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and insurance companies.
Importance of Medical Coding in Healthcare
Medical coding is the backbone of healthcare administration, ensuring accurate billing and streamlined insurance claim processes. This field also plays a crucial role in maintaining data for research and public health initiatives.
Scope of Medical Coding Jobs
The demand for medical coding jobs has grown significantly due to advancements in the healthcare industry. Job roles include:
- Health Information Specialist
- Medical Billing Specialist
- Medical Records Technician
Why Pursue a Medical Coding Course?
Enrolling in a medical coding course provides the necessary skills to handle patient records, code medical procedures, and navigate insurance claims effectively. The course duration, typically 1-3 years, includes practical training in systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS
Medical Coding Course Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the importance of Medical Coding?
Ans: Medical coding is the process of translating these medical diagnoses, procedures, services, and medical devices into universal medical alphanumeric codes into uniform numeric codes. These codes are then used to collect patient information, process insurance claims with third-party providers, and collect statistics to track information about specific illnesses, treatments, and more.
Q2: What is the Medical Coder's Salary?
Ans: The average starting salary of a medical coder is Rs. 4-6 lakhs per year and experienced medical coders can earn upto INR 15 lakhs per year.
Q3: How is the Course?
Ans: It can take 1-3 years to complete a medical coding course.
Q4: What is a Medical Coding Course?
Ans: Medical coding course in India teaches learners to transfer a patient's medical data including medical procedures, diagnoses and records into standardized alphanumeric codes.
Q5: What is the eligibility to learn the Medical Coding Course?
Ans: The learner should have a bachelor's or master's degree with a scientific background, preferably in life sciences or medical sciences. It would be easier for the learner to understand the concepts of medical coding courses in India.
Q6: What types of medical codes are there?
Ans: There are three main types of medical coding: ICD (International Classification of Diseases), CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), and HCPCS (Common Coding System for Healthcare Procedures).
Q7: Is the medical coding course difficult?
Ans: The process is not impossible to achieve. The learner must understand how the subject works and must have the proper training to achieve the goal. This would make learning the course a lot easier.
Q8: Where does a medical coder find a job?
Ans: Medical coders can find employment in medical billing and coding companies, diagnostic facilities, insurance companies, government agencies, private sectors, and more. There are opportunities for a medical coder.
Conclusion
A career in medical coding is promising, with excellent salaries, job stability, and growth opportunities. Whether you are a fresher or an experienced professional, this field offers a bright future in the healthcare industry.
