Securing your perfect job requires skills to stand out in a crowd of candidates. It takes more than a full resume and a good handshake to land the medical coding job that you are looking for. Besides tweaking your cover letter and honing your interviewing skills, there are many actions you can take to make sure you rise to the top of the candidate pool. Learning about computer software and technology, getting the proper training and experience, obtaining certification and applying for an association membership are a few of the most important things to consider.
Befriend Your Computer
Learning how to work with computers can seem intimidating, but it is not impossible. Start by taking some classes in computer skills and technology. A medical coding job consists of a lot of computer work. Many people know how to work a computer, but not many know how to operate the particular software that a medical coding job requires. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states in its Occupational Outlook Handbook that medical records and health information technicians “that demonstrate a strong understanding of technology and computer software will be in particularly high demand” in the future of the field.
Take the Proper Training
There are plenty of schools that offer medical coding classes, both online and in the classroom. The right training can ensure that you have the most up-to-date skills and knowledge that an employer needs. Training with online courses means that you can learn at your own pace, whenever you have free time. These courses can also offer instant feedback.
Classroom training can provide the knowledge you need to succeed and the networking opportunities to lead you to jobs in the field. These classroom settings can also afford you the chance to go more in depth with the material via discussions with your instructors and classmates.
Without the proper training, you will not be able to get what is perhaps the most important thing for landing a medical coding job: your certification.
Get Certified
Certification is perhaps the number one element that will set you apart from other candidates when applying for a medical coding job. It can demonstrate to potential employers that you not only have the skills necessary to complete the job, but also the dedication. Certification is not just something that happens when you complete training courses; it comes from preparedness and diligence. It will help down the road in the advancement of your career as well. A survey of health care professionals conducted by the American Health Information Management Association found that employers value certification because these employees require less training, produce more accurate work, improve the quality of health care delivery, improve reimbursement and billing, and help to reduce exposure to fraud and abuse charges.
A certification exam can be taken through multiple outlets. The American Academy of Professional Coders offers multiple forms of a medical coding certification, including specialty certifications. The American Health Information Management Association can also offer various certifications for medical coders, including Certified Coding Associate, Certified Coding Specialist and Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-based. Find which certification is the best fit for you and start the process. Remember, you don’t need to stop at one certification. There are many specialty certifications that will only boost your chances of getting a medical coding job.
Join an Association
Joining an association can provide you with the information you need to find a medical coding job. It presents the opportunity to use great resources for which you might not otherwise have access. It can also be a great forum for introduction to other professionals who can lead you to that perfect job. For instance, The Medical Association of Billers holds chapter meetings around the country that can offer opportunities for networking and information gathering. These meetings also provide CEUs, which will help you get recertified down the road. The MAB also offers a section of online classifieds that are available only to members.
The American Academy of Professional Coders also holds chapter meetings. The number one tip that the AAPC offers to those looking for a medical coding job is to network as much as possible. Not only should you be going to any medical facility near you, you should also be finding ways to meet other professionals. These chapter meetings are a great opportunity to do that.
Gain Experience
Experience of any kind is useful. A job in a medical setting, whether it is a hospital, physician’s office or dentist’s office, can offer experience that will help you get that medical coding job you want. Experience in a medical setting will fill out your resume and can offer career-building skills that will help you get that medical coding job you want. It can also give you something to draw on during interviews for a medical coding job.
The American Academy of Professional Coders offers Project Xtern, a program for coders who are looking to gain experience. The prerequisites are membership in the AAPC and certification. It can match up newly certified medical coders with organizations willing to give new coders experience. It may help you get a medical coding job, but at the very least it offers valuable experience.
Keep Learning
Always keep learning. Continue taking classes as often as you can. There are always specialty classes and certifications available to you as a medical coder. Not only can you take classes about your craft, you can also attend seminars and conferences. Look for educational and networking opportunities in your local area. These will be valuable resources to help you hone your skills and land a great job.
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