What you NEED to know BEFORE getting into Medical Coding

This paragraph introduces the audience to the basics of medical coding, highlighting that it is distinct from other types of coding like programming languages. Victoria, a medical coder, educator, and content creator, emphasizes that medical coding involves reviewing medical records, abstracting data, and translating it into code sets. She mentions that while there is some math involved, it's minimal and mostly related to calculating areas for certain codes. Victoria also outlines the different types of coding jobs and the varying pay associated with them, stressing the importance of certification for employment.

In this section, Victoria discusses the educational requirements for medical coding, clarifying that a bachelor's or associate's degree is not necessary to start a career in this field. She suggests that online courses and certification exams are the primary pathways to entry. For those without a medical background, she recommends community college or technical school programs to gain foundational knowledge. Victoria also touches on the importance of job search strategies for new coders, including resume polishing and networking. She mentions that employers often require a high level of accuracy and productivity from medical coders, which can vary based on the organization and the type of coding work.

Victoria explains the annual costs associated with being a medical coder, such as purchasing updated coding books and paying membership dues for organizations like AAPC. She emphasizes the importance of continuing education and the costs associated with it. The paragraph also addresses the constant changes in medical coding due to federal regulations, insurance guidelines, and other industry-specific updates. Victoria provides examples of how these changes can affect coders, such as the introduction of new vaccine codes during the pandemic. She also mentions the exceptions to guidelines and the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the field.

The final paragraph discusses the realities of outsourcing and offshoring in the medical coding industry. Victoria explains that some healthcare organizations may outsource their coding work to other companies, which can shift jobs rather than eliminate them. She advises those looking to work locally to check if local organizations are outsourcing. Victoria also mentions offshoring, where work is moved to other countries to reduce labor costs. She concludes with a bonus tip on the value of obtaining multiple certifications in medical coding, while also cautioning about the associated costs.