In 2014, the healthcare industry was on the cusp of a significant transformation: the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 coding systems. For individuals considering a career in medical coding, this shift raised important questions. One of the most pressing was: is medical coding a good career in 2014, especially with such a major change on the horizon? Let’s delve into this question and explore the perspectives of those in the field at that time.
Understanding the ICD-10 Transition for Aspiring Medical Coders
The impending implementation of ICD-10 was a hot topic among medical coding professionals and those looking to enter the field. The concern was understandable. ICD-10 represented a significant expansion and increased complexity compared to ICD-9. Would getting certified in ICD-9 in 2013 or 2014 still be valuable? Would new coders immediately need to recertify for ICD-10?
These were the exact questions raised by Sally, an aspiring medical coder, in online forums in 2013. She was planning to take her CPC or CPC-H exam and was seeking clarity amidst conflicting information about the necessity of ICD-10 certification and the timeline for its adoption. She had heard rumors that ICD-10 might be delayed again due to the cost of software upgrades for healthcare providers, adding to the uncertainty.
ICD-9 Skills Remained Essential
Experienced medical coding professionals like Carolyn Heath and Alicia Scott offered reassuring and practical advice. Carolyn Heath, a well-known member in the coding community, clarified that while all AAPC certified coders would need to take an ICD-10 proficiency assessment, there was a window of time to do so. This assessment, an unproctored online exam, was designed to ensure coders were competent in the new system.
Alicia Scott, a moderator and instructor, emphasized the continued importance of ICD-9. She correctly pointed out that ICD-9 was “not going away” immediately. For years to come, both ICD-9 and ICD-10 would be necessary, particularly for specific areas like workman’s compensation claims. This meant that physicians and healthcare facilities would value coders proficient in both systems.
Why Medical Coding Was a Smart Career Move in 2014
The ICD-10 transition, while presenting a learning curve, did not diminish the prospects of a medical coding career. In fact, it arguably highlighted the ongoing and growing need for skilled medical coders. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and in 2014, the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (often referred to as “Obama Care”) was also contributing to changes and an increased demand for qualified professionals.
Sally, drawing on her background in billing and medical office administration, recognized this trend. She understood that the healthcare landscape was shifting, and the need for professional coders was, if anything, on the rise. Her proactive approach to preparing for her certification exams, utilizing practice tests and considering resources like “Blitz Videos” for exam preparation, demonstrated a commitment to career success.
Advice for Success in Medical Coding Certification
Alicia Scott offered further valuable advice regarding exam preparation. She suggested that consistently scoring 80-85% on practice exams was a good benchmark for readiness. For those needing additional support, resources like “Blitz” review videos were recommended to improve both knowledge and exam speed – a common concern for test-takers.
The forum discussions also underscored the supportive community within medical coding. Experienced professionals were readily sharing advice, encouragement, and resources, creating a positive environment for newcomers like Sally to navigate their career paths.
Medical Coding in 2014: A Career with a Future
In conclusion, the question “is medical coding a good career in 2014?” could be answered with a resounding yes. Despite the ICD-10 transition, or perhaps even because of it, the demand for skilled medical coders was strong. The transition required adaptation and learning, but also presented an opportunity to become a highly valued professional adept in both coding systems. For individuals like Sally, who were proactive, prepared, and willing to learn, medical coding offered a stable and promising career path in 2014 and beyond. The need for accurate and efficient medical coding remains crucial in the healthcare industry, making it a consistently relevant and rewarding career choice.
