Medical Billing and Coding Certification in Delaware

Dreaming of a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry? Delaware is a fantastic place to consider for medical billing and coding professionals, offering promising job growth, competitive salaries, and a variety of educational opportunities. Delaware offers promising job growth, competitive salaries, and a variety of educational opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals.

Delaware’s Growing Healthcare Industry

Delaware’s healthcare industry is on the rise, providing a fertile ground for medical billing and coding professionals to flourish. With the demand for skilled medical billers and coders at a premium, pursuing a professional certification in this field can significantly boost your career prospects and job security.

Job Outlook for Medical Billers and Coders

The job outlook for medical billers and coders in Delaware is incredibly positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of medical records specialists, which includes medical billers and coders, is projected to grow 7 per cent from 2021 to 2031 in Delaware, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Although the current employment rate for medical billers and coders in Delaware is fewer than 1,000 people, it’s projected to experience a 13% job growth by 2023. There’s no better time to align your career goals with this high-demand field and secure your future in the booming healthcare industry.

Salary Expectations

Salaries for medical billers and coders in Delaware are quite competitive, ranging from $35,000 to $50,000 depending on experience and location. The average salary for medical billers and coders in Delaware is higher than all states on the Eastern Seaboard except Virginia and Maryland.

Starting salaries in Delaware range from $38,000 to $44,000, with the average salary for medical billers and coders in Dover, DE being $34,490 annually. With such attractive salary prospects, it’s no wonder that many individuals are eager to pursue a career in medical billing and coding in Delaware.

Certification Bodies for Medical Billing and Coding Professionals

There are two main third-party certifying bodies for medical billing and coding professionals in the United States: the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Aspiring medical billing and coding professionals can benefit from discipline-specific education, which can lead to achieving professional certification sooner and making a smoother transition into the workforce.

AAPC Certification

The AAPC issues the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification, which is a highly regarded credential in the medical coding field. The CPC examination covers a range of concepts such as medical terminology, coding guidelines, and compliance and regulatory issues, requiring candidates to apply their knowledge of ICD coding. To obtain the CPC certification, candidates must meet experience and examination requirements, although an apprentice-level certification (CPC-A) can be granted before meeting the experience requirements.

AHIMA Certification

AHIMA offers the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-based (CCS-P) certifications for medical coders in Delaware, obtainable through experience or education with mandatory courses, such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and pharmacology.

AHIMA also offers the lower-level Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification for those looking to start their medical coding career. The cost range for AHIMA’s CCS examination fee is $299 to $399, making it a worthwhile investment in your future career.

Exploring Educational Opportunities in Delaware

Delaware offers a variety of educational opportunities for aspiring medical billing and coding professionals. Certificate, diploma, or associate-level programs are available, providing the essential knowledge and skills required for a successful career in this field.

Certificate, Diploma, and Associate Programs

Medical billing and coding students in Delaware can choose from certificate, diploma, and associate programs, each offering a different level of education and focus. Certificate programs, such as those offered by Black Hawk College and Washtenaw Community College provide a targeted education, often taking less time to complete than diploma or associate programs.

Medical Coding Specialist Certificate at Black Hawk College

Program Overview:

The Medical Coding Specialist Certificate at Black Hawk College prepares students for employment in health care information management.
This certificate program enables students to work in coding departments, physicians’ offices, health care clinics, emergency care clinics, chiropractic offices, psychiatric clinics, and health insurance companies.
There are opportunities for internet coding work after gaining experience.

Key Skills and Knowledge Areas:

Medical Terminology: Understanding and using medical terminology accurately.
Anatomy and Physiology: Knowledge of the human body and its systems.
Medical Coding: Proficiency in CPT procedure and ICD-10 diagnosis coding.
Healthcare Reimbursement: Understanding third-party reimbursement and coverage policies.
Medical Records: Reviewing and abstracting in-patient and out-patient medical records.
Coding Standards and HIPAA Regulations: Utilizing new coding standards and understanding HIPAA regulations.
Insurance Issues: Resolving insurance carrier rejects and denials related to coding and coverage issues.

Program Structure:

Internship: One semester internship totaling 240 hours, providing practical experience.

Program Outcomes:

Technology Management: Utilize technology successfully for the management of health care information.
Cultural Sensitivity: Apply sensitivity to client cultural diversity, especially in communication.
Accurate Medical Coding: Use CPT and ICD-10 medical coding accurately.

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program at Washtenaw Community College

Program Overview:

The Medical Billing and Coding (CTMBC) certificate program at Washtenaw Community College (WCC) equips students with comprehensive skills in classifying, coding, reporting, analyzing, and managing medical data.
The program prepares students for roles in both physician’s offices and large healthcare facilities.

Key Skills and Knowledge Areas:

Medical Data Management: Develop skills to manage and analyze medical data for various healthcare settings.
Medical Coding and Claims Processing: Learn to code and process claims for reimbursement across multiple healthcare environments.
Healthcare Laws and Compliance: Understand pertinent laws, regulations, and compliance issues affecting healthcare information management and privacy.

Certification Preparation:

Upon completion, students may be eligible to take the following AHIMA coding exams:
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
- Certified Coding Specialist – Physician-based (CCS-P)

Program Highlights:

High Demand Program: This is classified as a high demand, high skill program by the Michigan Community College Network.
Career Outlook: Prepares students for careers as Clinical Data Managers, Medical Records Specialists, Health Information Technologists, Medical Registrars, Medical Assistants, and Medical Transcriptionists.

Admissions and Requirements:

Prospective students should contact the Health Science department for admissions requirements, continuing eligibility, and detailed course requirements.

Diploma programs provide a more comprehensive education, typically taking one to two years to complete and covering courses in medical terminology, coding systems, and medical office procedures.

Online Learning Options

For those who cannot attend traditional classes or prefer a more flexible learning schedule, online learning options are available. Delaware offers AAPC-approved classroom training programs, stackable certificate programs, and self-paced online courses for medical billing and coding.

Some programs even include online coursework and practical experience, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education and hands-on training in their chosen field.

Penn Foster offers both an online Medical Billing and Coding career diploma and online Medical Coding Professional Training.

Practical Experience and Internships

Internships and practical experience play a crucial role in the education of medical billing and coding professionals in Delaware. Gaining hands-on experience through internships and job shadowing not only enhances your skills and knowledge but also provides invaluable networking opportunities with potential employers.

Benefits of Internships

The benefits of completing internships in medical billing and coding are numerous. Internships provide students with invigorating real-world experience, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills they’ve learned in their education to real-life situations.

Additionally, internships provide the opportunity to build relationships with employers in the field, increasing the likelihood of securing a job upon completion of your program.

Navigating the Certification Process in Delaware

The certification process for medical billing and coding professionals in Delaware involves passing one of the nationally recognized certification exams, such as those offered by the AAPC or AHIMA. While certification is not mandatory for all medical billers and coders in Delaware, obtaining a certification can greatly improve your career prospects and job security.

Students interested in pursuing medical billing and coding certification in Delaware should also consider participating in internships or work experience opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Preparing for Certification Exams

To prepare for certification exams, it is recommended to study and practice coding exercises, as well as take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the test format. Resources such as code books, exam study guides, and online courses offered by certifying bodies and educational institutions can be invaluable tools for preparing for certification exams.

Additionally, staying up-to-date with changes in regulations and coding guidelines is essential for maintaining your certification.

Maintaining Certification

Maintaining your certification in medical billing and coding requires continuing education and recertification every two years. Pursuing continuing education opportunities, such as those offered by the AAPC and other organizations, is an excellent way to stay current with changes in regulations and coding guidelines.

By staying informed and engaged in your field, you’ll ensure your knowledge and skills remain relevant, allowing you to provide the best possible service to your patients and employers.

Top Employers and Cities for Medical Billing and Coding Careers in Delaware

Delaware offers ample job opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals. Some of the leading employers in this field include Nemours, Delaware Hospice, and Peninsula Regional Medical.

Moreover, the top cities for medical billing and coding careers in Delaware are Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Bear.

Leading Healthcare Employers

Nemours, a renowned children’s health system with locations in Delaware, Florida, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, is one of the top employers for medical billing and coding professionals in the state. Delaware Hospice, a non-profit organization providing hospice and palliative care services, offers flexible schedules and generous benefits to its employees, including reimbursement for certification and continuing education.

Best Cities for Medical Billing and Coding Careers

The best cities for medical billing and coding careers in Delaware include Wilmington, Dover, Newark, and Bear. These cities offer a variety of job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and remote positions for medical billers and coders.

By pursuing a career in one of these thriving cities, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of a growing healthcare industry but also have access to top employers and educational opportunities to further advance your career.

Summary

Delaware’s booming healthcare industry offers exciting opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals. With a positive job outlook, competitive salaries, and a variety of certification and educational options, now is the perfect time to pursue a career in medical billing and coding in Delaware. By obtaining certification, engaging in continuing education, and seeking practical experience through internships, you’ll be well-equipped to succeed in this rewarding and in-demand field.

Explore Medical Billing and Coding in Nearby States

For those interested in medical billing and coding opportunities in surrounding areas, we have resources available for:

Each of these neighboring states offers specific insights into training options, certification requirements, and career opportunities. Reviewing these pages can provide you with a broader understanding of regional job markets, helping you make well-informed decisions as you advance in the medical billing and coding field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific state-level Medicaid billing requirements in Delaware?

Yes, Delaware medical billers working with Medicaid must be familiar with the state’s Diamond State Health Plan policies, which may have different reimbursement and coverage guidelines compared to other states. Staying updated on Delaware Medicaid’s regulations ensures accurate claim submission.

Can medical billing and coding professionals in Delaware work remotely?

Yes, many healthcare organizations in Delaware, including hospitals and private practices, offer remote work opportunities for certified medical billers and coders. Employers often require certifications like CPC or CCS for these remote positions to ensure expertise.

Is there financial aid available for medical billing and coding programs in Delaware?

Yes, aspiring medical billers and coders in Delaware can apply for financial aid, including state scholarships and federal aid through FAFSA. Many Delaware colleges and technical schools also offer grant programs to support students pursuing healthcare careers.

Is the Certified Medical Coder exam hard?

If you’re considering taking the Certified Medical Coder exam, be prepared: it’s not easy! With an average pass rate of 50%, the CPC® exam requires determination and focus to ace.

New changes to the test for 2022 have made mastering each answer more important than ever.