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.
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. 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, several organizations in Kansas 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.
Butler Community College
Program Overview
- Objective: Train students in the latest technology and practices in medical billing and coding.
- Degrees Offered:
- Two-year degree
- One-year certificate
Curriculum Highlights
- Medical Office Terminology: Learn essential terminology used in medical offices.
- Records Management: Training in managing and organizing medical records.
- Insurance Billing: Understanding the process of billing insurance companies.
- HIPAA Regulations: Comprehensive knowledge of HIPAA regulations and medical ethics.
- ICD-10 Coding System: Proficiency in the latest ICD-10 coding system.
- Electronic Health Record Software: Use and application of electronic health record software.
- Reimbursement Policies: Learning policies and procedures related to medical reimbursement.
Certification Preparation
- Certification: Prepares students for the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) national certification exam.
- CPC Certification: Achieving CPC certification allows you to work as an apprentice for two years, after which you can apply for full CPC certification.
Key Features
- Hands-On Learning: Emphasis on practical application and use of current technology in medical coding and billing.
- Career Readiness: Program designed to equip students with skills needed for immediate entry into the workforce.
Healthcare Coding Program at Neosho County Community College
Program Overview
- Certificate: Healthcare Coding Certificate
- Duration: 1.5 years
- Credit Hours: 36 credit hours
Program Description
The Healthcare Coding Certificate program at Neosho County Community College prepares individuals to perform specialized data entry, classification, and recordkeeping procedures related to medical diagnostics, treatment, billing, and insurance documentation. The curriculum includes:
- Medical Records and Insurance Software Applications
- Basic Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Terminology
- Fundamentals of Medical Science and Treatment Procedures
- Data Classification and Coding
- Data Entry Skills
- Regulations Related to Medicare and Insurance Documentation
Certification Preparation
- Exams: Prepares students for the Certified Physician Coding (CPC) exam through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Penn Foster offers both an online Medical Billing and Coding career diploma and online Medical Coding Professional Training.
Medical Billing and Coding Salaries in Kansas
Medical billing and coding professionals in Kansas can expect an average salary of $38,400, with the 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 fields.
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.
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.
Summary
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.
Discover Medical Billing and Coding Opportunities in Nearby States
For those looking to explore medical billing and coding opportunities in neighboring states, take a look at our resources for:
Each of these states offers valuable information on certification requirements, training programs, and career prospects. Reviewing these pages can give you a broader understanding of the regional job market, helping you make well-informed decisions to advance your career in medical billing and coding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the job prospects for entry-level medical billers and coders in rural Kansas areas?
Rural healthcare facilities in Kansas, such as small clinics and hospitals, increasingly require certified medical billers and coders, providing entry-level professionals with stable job opportunities due to the growing demand for accurate billing in underserved regions.
Are there specialized certifications beneficial for Kansas medical coders working in specific healthcare fields?
Kansas medical coders looking to specialize in areas such as oncology or cardiology can benefit from obtaining certifications like Certified Hematology and Oncology Coder (CHONC) or Certified Interventional Radiology Cardiovascular Coder (CIRCC), which enhance job prospects in those specialized fields.
Does Kansas offer any state-funded workforce development programs for medical billing and coding careers?
Yes, the Kansas Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program offers funding for eligible individuals to pursue medical billing and coding training, helping unemployed or underemployed residents transition into healthcare careers.
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.
