Medical Coding VS Medical Billing: What’s The Difference?
There is a lot of confusion between medical billing and coding. Some people think they are the same thing, while others think that medical coding is a part of medical billing. So what’s the difference? And which one should you go into if you’re thinking about a career in healthcare? Keep reading to find out!
What Is Medical Coding?
Medical coding is the process of turning healthcare diagnoses, procedures, and medical services into procedure codes from the universal medical alphanumeric codes system. These code numbers are then used to bill health insurance companies and to update a patient’s medical record. Medical coding is a critical process in the healthcare industry because it ensures that patients are billed correctly and that health insurance companies reimburse doctors and hospitals for the correct procedures and healthcare services. It’s very important for medical coders to make sure all patient data is up to date.
What Is Medical Billing?
Medical billing is the process of submitting and following up on claims with health insurance companies. Medical billers also work with patients to make sure that they are paying their portion of the bill. In some cases, medical billers may also provide customer service to patients and make sure their medical record documentation is up to date.
What’s The Difference Between Medical Coding And Medical Billing?
The main difference between medical billing and coding is that medical coders focused on the medical codes that are assigned to medical procedures, while medical billing is focused on claims and payments. Medical coders work with doctors and other healthcare providers to make sure that the correct codes are used for diagnoses, procedures, and services. Medical billers then submit these codes to insurance companies and follow up on the insurance claims.
Both medical coding and medical billing are important parts of the healthcare industry. Without medical coding, patients would be billed incorrectly and health insurance companies would not reimburse doctors and hospitals for the correct procedures. And without medical billing, patients would not be able to pay their portion of the bill, and health insurance companies would not know what they owe.
Do Medical Coders Work With Patient Medical Records?
Medical coders do not work with patient medical records. They work with the code numbers that are used to bill insurance companies and patient records.
A Medical biller, on the other hand, does work with patient medical records.
Do You Need Certification To Work In Medical Coding Or Medical Billing?
A medical coder does not need certification to work in medical coding. However, many employers prefer to hire coders who are certified. A medical coder who is AAPC Certified with the American Academy of Professional Coders will have completed an exam that tests their knowledge of medical coding. This makes them more sought after since they know what they’re doing.
A medical biller also does not need certification to work in medical billing. However, certification may give you an edge when applying for jobs. The American Medical Billers Association (AMBA) offers a Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS) credential for medical billers. To earn this credential, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of medical billing.
Other Skills you’ll need To Be A Medical Coder
-An understanding of human anatomy and medical terminology
-The ability to use a computer and various coding software programs
-Good communication skills
-Attention to detail
-Organizational skills
Other Skills you’ll need To Be A Medical Biller
-An understanding of medical billing and coding systems
-The ability to use a computer and various billing software programs
-Good communication skills
-Attention to detail
-Organizational skills
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision of whether to become a medical coder or medical biller is a personal one. Both positions are important in the healthcare industry, and both require specific skills and knowledge. If you’re interested in working with code numbers and ensuring that patients are billed correctly, then medical coding may be the right career for you. If you’re interested in working with insurance companies and following up on claims, then medical billing may be the right career for you.
Whichever you choose, make sure to do your research and understand what the job entails. And if you decide to pursue certification, it will give you a leg up in the job market.
Medical billing and coding are important parts of the healthcare industry. Without medical coders, patients would be billed incorrectly and insurance companies would not reimburse doctors and hospitals for the correct procedures. And without medical billing, patients would not be able to pay their portion of the bill, and insurance companies would not know what they owe.
FAQs
Do medical coders have to be certified?
It might also be useful in your case when obtaining your medical coder certification from an undergraduate program. Although most jobs do not require an official certificate, having a certificate can make you stand up against competitors. Even if the position requires an interview without requiring certification many hiring authorities expect your training to begin immediately. Gain access to accredited organizations. AAPC and AHAMI are both similar bodies and other accreditations are available for other organizations.
How long does it take to become a medical coder?
It takes between 1 and 3 years for medical billers and coders. Earning medical billing and coding certification can take one year, while earning associate’s degrees can take three years.
Is medical coding a good career?
Medical Coding is a very important profession The shortage in the demand for qualified medical coders is around 60% which is rising substantially since 2011. Medical Coding employment will grow by 15 percent by the year 2020 and will be significantly stronger.
What is medical coder salary?
Medical coder salaries are generally around Rs1.9 lakh a year or 155.8k per week. One year of minimum experience in medical codes is required.
What do I need to become a medical coder?
You can apply now for pharmacy coding if you have a PhD/postgraduate degree in pharmacology chemistry.
Final Thoughts
Medical coding and billing are important jobs in the healthcare industry. If you’re interested in working with code numbers or insurance companies, then these might be the right careers for you. Whichever you choose, make sure to do your research and understand what the job entails. And if you decide to pursue certification, it will give you a leg up in the job market.
Do you have what it takes to be a medical coder or medical biller? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
