Unlocking the Benefits of Medical Billing and Coding Certification in Kansas
Are you considering a career in the thriving healthcare industry? Medical billing and coding certification in Kansas opens doors to numerous opportunities, competitive salaries, and job security. Let’s dive into this rewarding career path, explore the top certification programs, and discover the benefits of becoming a certified professional in Kansas.
Short Summary
- Explore the competitive remuneration and job security offered by Kansas’ range of certification programs for medical billing and coding.
- Acquire essential skills such as knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems, insurance policies & more to be successful in this field.
- With a positive job outlook & predicted growth of 11%, pursue national certifications to enhance credentials & career opportunities in Kansas.
Exploring Medical Billing and Coding Certification in Kansas
Kansas offers a diverse range of medical billing and coding certification programs, providing students with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in the healthcare industry. These programs are available through technical colleges, vocational institutes, and community colleges, typically requiring one year to complete, while some may require less time. An Associate’s Degree in Medical Billing and Coding is also available as an option. Pursuing a career in this field in Kansas can lead to competitive remuneration, with coding salary being an important factor, and job security.
Kansas medical billers and coders are in high demand within the medical profession. The average yearly wage for medical billers and coders in Manhattan, Kansas is reportedly $37,320. With various certification options available, let’s explore the two popular choices for medical coding and billing professionals in Kansas: Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS).
Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
A Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is a highly-skilled, certified medical coder who assigns codes to medical treatments and diagnoses for billing purposes. The CPC certification is provided by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and is a nationally acknowledged medical coding qualification. Attaining a CPC certification demonstrates a proficient level of knowledge and expertise in medical coding, offering medical coders access to a network of certified professionals, continuing education, and job opportunities.
To obtain the certification, applicants must pass the CPC certification exam, which is administered by the AAPC. In order to become a CPC, applicants must have a minimum of two years of professional coding experience, working with medical records, and complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education every two years.
The AAPC offers various resources, such as study materials, practice exams, and online courses, to help individuals attain a coding certificate. Additionally, there are several organizations in Kansas that provide training and certification programs for medical coders.
Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS)
A Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS) is a professional who has obtained certification in medical billing and coding. They are responsible for handling patient billing records and verifying that insurance claims are processed accurately. Medical records specialists, such as CMBS, are granted their designation by various organizations, including the American Medical Billing Association (AMBA).
Obtaining a CMBS certification can offer a range of advantages, such as enhanced job security, improved remuneration, and heightened job satisfaction. In addition, it ensures that medical billing and coding processes are conducted accurately and productively. To obtain a CMBS certification, individuals must complete a medical billing and coding certification program and pass an exam administered by the AMBA.
Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Kansas
Butler Community College is a top choice for medical billing and coding programs in Kansas, with other notable institutions also offering accredited programs. Research indicates that Hutchinson Community College, Neosho County Community College, and Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology offer some of the most highly regarded medical billing and coding programs in the state.
Kansas has a variety of accredited medical billing and coding programs, both campus-based and online, providing students with multiple options to suit their needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the Medical Coding program offered by Butler Community College and other notable institutions in Kansas.
Butler Community College
Butler Community College offers a Medical Coding (Physician Coding) program and an Associate of Applied Science degree program. The completion of the program offers students great benefits. They have already completed the first two years of their Wichita State University Health Management degree. The understanding between Butler Community College and Wichita State University allows students to transition without difficulty to Wichita State University’s Public Health Science – Health Management program.
This program is eligible for the Kansas Promise Scholarship, a financial aid program that provides assistance for tuition, fees, and books to eligible students pursuing certain certificates or degrees. This scholarship is a great opportunity for students to reduce the financial burden while pursuing a career in medical coding.
Other Notable Institutions
Apart from Butler Community College, there are other educational institutions in Kansas that offer medical billing and coding programs, including community colleges, technical colleges, and universities. These programs prepare students to take certification exams and pursue careers in the healthcare industry.
Kansas is home to 5 accredited programs. These include 1 campus-based program and 2 online schools. With several options available, aspiring medical billers and coders in Kansas can choose the program that best suits their needs and preferences.
Medical Billing and Coding Salaries in Kansas
Medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas can expect an average salary of $38,400, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and certifications. The medical billers and coders in Kansas have higher salaries than the average. It is reported to be around $53,460 per year. Obtaining national certifications, such as the AAPC certification, can provide medical coding and billing professionals with the potential to progress at a faster rate and gain access to higher salaries.
Top cities in Kansas for medical billing and coding careers include Wichita, Overland Park, and Kansas City. In these cities, the job market offers various opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals to excel in their field. Let’s explore these top cities in more detail.
Top Cities for Medical Billing and Coding Careers
Kansas City, Wichita, and Overland Park are the most sought-after locations for medical billing and coding careers in Kansas. Other cities, such as Hutchinson, Lenexa, El Dorado, Colby, and Great Bend, may also offer suitable opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals.
In Wichita, there are approximately 500 medical billers and coders employed, making it the area with the highest concentration of professionals in this field. With a stable job market in Kansas, medical billing and coding professionals can expect to find diverse career opportunities in various healthcare facilities across the state.
Essential Skills and Qualities of Successful Medical Coders and Billers
To excel in the field of medical billing and coding, professionals must possess specific skills and qualities. A thorough knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems is crucial. Attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and proficiency in computer software are also essential. In addition, medical coders and medical billers should have familiarity with insurance policies and basic bookkeeping principles, as well as effective communication and problem-solving skills.
Successful medical coders in Kansas must also demonstrate self-motivation, possess strong numerical skills, and pay close attention to detail. For effective medical billing in Kansas, strong communication abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of medical terminology, medical codes, healthcare documentation, and other relevant job-specific skills are required.
By possessing these essential skills and qualities, medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas can ensure accurate and efficient handling of medical records and billing processes, leading to a successful and rewarding career in the healthcare industry.
Kansas Medical Billing and Coding Job Market
The job market for medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas is stable, with an anticipated 11% growth in medical billing and coding jobs over the next eight years. The average annual remuneration for medical billing and coding professionals in Lawrence, Kansas is $36,740, while the customary hourly wage for employees in Kansas City is $19.62.
Hospitals, clinics, physician offices, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities are known to hire medical billers and coders in Kansas. With a growing demand for these professionals, the job market in Kansas offers promising opportunities for those pursuing a career in medical billing and coding.
Education and Licensing Requirements for Medical Billing and Coding in Kansas
Education requirements for medical billing and coding in Kansas include a high school diploma or GED, with certification programs offered by technical colleges, vocational institutes, and community colleges. While there is no statewide license required for medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas, obtaining a national certification can be beneficial when applying for positions.
Medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas have two national certification options: the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). These organisations provide expertise to the field and help ensure professional standards are maintained. By pursuing a certification or an Associate’s Degree in Medical Billing and Coding, professionals can enhance their credentials and boost their career opportunities in the healthcare industry.
Resources for Medical Billing and Coding Professionals in Kansas
Several resources are available for medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas, such as Kansas Medical Billing Jobs, the Kansas Health Information Management Association, the Kansas Board of Regents Medical Coding Standards, and Kansas Medical Coding Jobs. These resources can provide valuable information, job opportunities, and updates on industry standards for Kansas medical coders.
The predicted employment growth for medical billing and coding in Kansas is 13% between 2016 and 2026. With a positive job outlook and numerous resources at their disposal, medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas can look forward to a bright and promising future in the healthcare industry.
Summary
In conclusion, obtaining a medical billing and coding certification in Kansas unlocks numerous opportunities for professionals in the healthcare industry. With competitive salaries, a stable job market, and various educational programs available, pursuing a career in medical billing and coding is a rewarding and secure choice. By developing essential skills, obtaining the right certifications, and utilizing available resources, professionals can excel in this thriving field and contribute to the efficient and accurate handling of medical records and billing processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a Medical Coder in Kansas?
To become a Medical Coder in Kansas, you must obtain certification and complete training in medical billing, coding, and auditing practices. Prep courses are recommended to help prepare for the credentialing exam, which is the final step in earning the necessary certification.
How much does billing and coding pay in Kansas?
On average, medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas earn between $31,800 and $40,700 per year, depending on experience.
How much does a Medical Coder make in Kansas?
Medical coders in Kansas earn an average of $32,300 to $42,500 annually, depending on experience.
Which certification is best for medical billing and coding?
Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – For those looking to specialize in medical billing and coding, the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is the best option. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for certifications in this field.
What are the two popular certification options for medical coding and billing professionals in Kansas?
For medical coding and billing professionals in Kansas, two popular certification options are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS).
The CPC is a nationally recognized certification that is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to provide coders with the knowledge and skills necessary to accurately code medical services and procedures. The CMBS is a certification offered by the CMBS.
