Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Understanding Medical Billing And Coding

Medical Billing and Coding is essential for the health care industry, and fast becoming a viable career option for many people. While many people usually have a career that deals with both, in reality, they are quite different from each other and come with dissimilar job responsibilities. When looking for a job in this field it is not important to have specialization in both fields.

Medical Billing

Medical billing deals with the process of submitting claims forms of patients to insurance companies, and providers of workers' compensation, Medicare and Medicaid. They also have to ensure that timely payments are made for the services that the doctor and health care centre have rendered to the patients. In the event of any problem claims or unpaid claims, they have to follow it up with the insurance providers and settle the issue.

Medical Coding

Another name for medical coding is medical classification. Medical codes are universal alpha numeric codes that are used to identify patient’s diagnosis, medical procedures, diseases, and injuries. In order to assign these medical codes, the coders have to make a study of the medical records of the patients, doctor’s notes and lab results. These medical codes are generally used on claims forms, which are submitted to Medicare and Medicaid and insurance providers.

Scope of Medical Billing, Coding as a Job

Professional medical billers and coders are in great demand. They smoothen the functioning in health care centers and take on the more technical work. Doctors and patients don’t have to worry themselves about following up with insurance companies to find out about the status of their claims. Hospitals, Pharmacies, laboratories, doctor’s offices, and other health care providers are always looking for experienced professionals who can handle medical billing, coding, and some other related services.

For those who want to take up this job, they some basic training is required. However, with a few years of experience, you can easily set up your own business and make medical billing and coding into a challenging, money-making enterprise.
Author: ajcp
Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

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