Many individuals explore career paths in the healthcare industry, and medical billing and coding often emerges as a promising option. If you’re asking “is medical billing and coding a good career choice in 2016?”, it’s crucial to understand the landscape of this field and how to effectively pursue it for professional success. While certification, such as the CPC-A, is a foundational step, it’s important to recognize that it’s just the beginning of your journey, not an automatic guarantee of employment.
Earning a certification demonstrates your commitment and foundational knowledge, which is essential for most positions within the coding industry. Think of it as acquiring the necessary tools for a trade. However, just possessing the tools doesn’t automatically equate to a job. The path to securing a position in medical billing and coding requires a strategic approach that extends beyond certification.
So, what steps can you take to transform your certification into a fulfilling career? Firstly, actively engage in networking. Building connections within the healthcare and coding community can open doors to unadvertised opportunities and provide valuable insights into the job market. Secondly, invest in a professionally crafted resume. A resume that effectively highlights your skills and experience, even if seemingly unrelated at first glance, can significantly increase your visibility to potential employers. Consider seeking out resume writers who specialize in the medical coding field; their expertise can be invaluable in presenting your qualifications in the best possible light.
Furthermore, broaden your job search horizons. While facility coding is a well-known area, explore opportunities in profee coding, particularly with physician groups affiliated with hospital systems. Your CPC certification can be highly relevant in these settings. Another rapidly growing and often overlooked area is risk adjustment coding. Positions in risk adjustment are frequently more open to hiring CPC-A certified individuals and providing on-the-job training. This sector can also be financially rewarding, with experienced risk adjustment coders earning competitive hourly rates.
In conclusion, while 2016 may seem like a while ago, the core principles of launching a successful career in medical billing and coding remain relevant. Certification is a vital first step, but proactive networking, a strong resume, and a willingness to explore diverse coding niches like risk adjustment are crucial for navigating the job market effectively and realizing the potential of medical billing and coding as a good career choice. Persistence and a strategic approach are key to turning your certification into a rewarding and stable career.
