Friday, July 6, 2012

Medical Billing and Coding Employment


Outlook for Medical Billing and Coding
Employment

Medical Billing Employment
The U. S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an annual increase of 14.4% in health care office and administrative support occupations. Although the Department of Labor does not specifically categorize the medical billing specialist, they do project a 20.9% increase in those performing bookkeeping and accounting functions and a 21.5% increase in general office clerical functions - which is where the medical billing employment functions best fit.


This corresponds to a projected increase of 21.3% for professional and related occupations - or health care providers which will need billing services. Especially considering the increasing complexity of the billing process brought on by changes in health care reimbursement (like HIPAA).


In summary the outlook is very good for medical billing employment. And this is based on the most credible source available - the U.S. Department of Labor. Reference the Bureau of Labor Statistics Career Guide to Industries - Health Care.


Medical Coding Job Opportunities

The DOL projects a faster than average growth for medical coding jobs with those having a good  background being in especially high demand. Through the year 2016, medical coding positions are estimated to increase by 18%. 


This higher than average demand is due to the increased need for medical treatments, procedures, and tests due to an aging population. Also driving the demand is greater scrutiny placed on health care services by insurance companies, consumers and their employers, and regulatory agencies.


Medical coding jobs will also be abundant for those with good computer skills. There is an increasing movement by the health care industry to electronic medical records. DOL projects opportunities in physician offices, outpatient and home health services, and nursing facilities. Not only will new positions be created but many opportunities will be created by retirements.


Experienced medical coders with credentials will be in particularly high demand. Health care providers and facilities are challenged to attract and retain good coders. The Occupational Outlook anticipates job prospects to be especially good for medical coders through temporary job agencies and professional services firms.


The U. S. Department of Labor (DOL) creates the Occupational Information Handbook which gives the outlook for various professions in the United States. The medical coder job falls under the classification of Medical Records and Health Information Technicians. According to their latest report, approximately 2 out of 5 jobs (or 40%) of jobs are in hospitals. The remaining 60% are in provider offices, nursing facilities, outpatient centers, and home health services.


Work Schedule

Most medical coding positions work a typical 40 hour work week with occasional overtime. Hospitals which are open 24/7 may require coverage during evening, night, and weekend times. Because of the increased demand of medical billing coding jobs, employers may be more accommodating of flexible work schedules. In their attempts to attract good employees, employers will probably be more accommodating by offering
more flexible work hours and work-at-home options.



1 comment:

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