Obtaining Medical Billing and Coding Certification in Maryland
Are you considering a career in the healthcare industry and looking to become a medical billing and coding specialist in Maryland? With the ever-growing demand for certified professionals, now is the perfect time to explore medical billing and coding certification in Maryland programs in the state. In this blog post, we will delve into the types of programs available, accreditation standards, essential coursework and skills, top institutions offering these programs, career opportunities and salary expectations, as well as financial aid and scholarship options.
Exploring Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Maryland
Embarking on a journey to become a medical billing and coding professional starts with choosing the right educational program. In Maryland, there are a plethora of options available to suit your needs, from certificate programs to associate and bachelor’s degree programs. It is crucial to select a program that aligns with your career goals and is accredited, ensuring that it meets the highest quality standards. Accreditation guarantees that the program provides a quality education, which will benefit you in terms of job prospects and career growth.
To help you make an informed decision, we will explore the types of programs available in Maryland, along with the importance of accreditation and quality standards for medical billing and coding programs.
Types of Programs
Maryland is home to various medical billing and coding programs, including certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs. Institutions such as Anne Arundel Community College, Baltimore City Community College, and Howard Community College are examples of schools offering these programs. Certificate programs are short-term, typically completed within a year, and provide students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a career in medical billing and coding.
On the other hand, associate degree programs are more comprehensive and typically take two years to complete. These programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the medical billing and coding field.
For those seeking a more extensive educational experience, bachelor’s degree programs offer a four-year curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, from medical coding to healthcare administration.
Accreditation and Quality
Accreditation plays a vital role in the quality of medical billing and coding programs in Maryland. An accrediting body reviews the program’s curriculum, faculty, and facilities to ensure that it adheres to established standards. Once the review is complete, the accrediting body will grant accreditation to the program if it meets the required standards. Attending an accredited program assures students that their education is of high quality, which in turn enhances their job opportunities and career growth.
Quality standards for medical billing and coding programs in Maryland encompass the program’s curriculum, faculty, and facilities. To maintain accreditation, the program must adhere to these standards. By choosing an accredited program, you can rest assured that your education will be recognized and valued by potential employers, increasing your chances of success in the medical billing and coding field.
Essential Coursework and Skills
To become a certified medical biller and coder, you must acquire a combination of health information knowledge, computer technology, and management skills. An understanding of medical terminology and anatomy is crucial, as these core courses provide the foundation for your success in the healthcare industry.
In addition to these core courses, practical skills are necessary to excel as a medical coding professional. With a solid grasp of medical coding systems and software, attention to detail, organizational abilities, and computer proficiency, you will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the medical billing and coding profession.
Core Courses
Core courses in medical billing and coding programs in Maryland typically include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, medical billing, and healthcare reimbursement. The medical terminology course encompasses the language of medicine, including abbreviations, prefixes, suffixes, and root words. The anatomy and physiology course covers a comprehensive overview of the structure and function of the human body, including organs, systems, and tissues.
The medical coding, medical billing, and healthcare reimbursement courses provide an overview of the coding and billing of medical services, as well as the reimbursement of medical services. These courses ensure that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry and excel as a medical billing and coding professional.
Practical Skills
Medical billing and coding programs in Maryland require students to possess knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, medical coding systems, and software. Strong attention to detail, organizational abilities, and computer software competency are essential for success in the field. Students should also have the ability to interpret medical records and documents accurately.
Familiarity with medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology is imperative for medical billing and coding programs in Maryland. This necessitates comprehension of medical terms, anatomy, and physiology, as well as the capability to decipher medical records and documents.
Proficiency in medical coding systems and software is essential for medical billing and coding programs in Maryland. This includes a thorough understanding of coding systems, and software, and the capability to accurately code medical records and documents.
Preparing for Certification Exams
Once you have completed your medical billing and coding program, it’s time to prepare for certification exams. Certification is required by most employers in Maryland, and passing the AAPC medical coding certification exam is a crucial step in securing employment in the field. In this section, we will discuss study materials and exam strategies to help you succeed in your certification exams.
Having a solid grasp of medical terminology and anatomy is imperative for success on certification exams. Maintaining a positive attitude and striving for a passing rate of 70% or higher is essential, as is being aware of common mistakes to avoid during the exam. Utilizing approved reference materials during the exam is also recommended.
Top Institutions Offering Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Maryland
In Maryland, several top institutions offer medical billing and coding programs designed to prepare you for a successful career in the healthcare industry. Some of these leading institutions include Towson University, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and Good Samaritan Hospital. Each of these institutions offers a unique program tailored to meet the needs of students seeking to become certified medical billing and coding professionals.
In the following sections, we will provide an overview of the medical billing and coding programs offered by Towson University, Anne Arundel Medical Center, and Good Samaritan Hospital, highlighting their unique offerings and how they can help you achieve your career goals.
Towson University
Towson University is a public university located in Towson, Maryland, and is the second-largest university in the University System of Maryland. They offer a Certified Professional Medical Coding Course and a Medical Billing course, both designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the medical billing and coding field.
Program Overview
- Format: Self-paced, online
- Clock Hours: 80 hours (not including study time)
- Program Duration: Must be completed within 6 months
Key Features
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the Certified Medical Billing Specialist or Certified Professional Biller exams.
- Curriculum Includes:
- Diagnostic coding
- Procedural coding
- Medicare
- HIPAA
- Bill collection strategies
- Accreditation: Course is accredited by AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders).
Additional Benefits
- WIOA Approved: Listed on the Maryland Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL).
- Discount Offer: 20% off tuition for registrations by a specified date.
- Payment Plans: Options available for students.
The Medical Billing course is designed to equip students with the required understanding and proficiency to become a successful medical biller. The course covers areas such as insurance billing, coding, and reimbursement.
Penn Foster
Penn Foster offers both an online Medical Billing and Coding career diploma and online Medical Coding Professional Training.
Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations
Upon completion of a medical billing and coding program in Maryland, graduates can pursue a range of job titles, such as Medical Biller, Coding Specialist, Billing Analyst, Certified Professional Coder, Outpatient Therapy Medical Biller, and Inpatient Coder. The job outlook for medical billers and coders in Maryland is promising, with data from August 2016 to August 2017 indicating a 3.4% growth rate.
Salary expectations for medical billers and coders in Maryland vary depending on the region and level of experience. The average annual salary for entry-level positions is approximately $43,028, while the median income for medical billing and coding professionals in Maryland is estimated to be $48,730.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for medical billers and coders in Maryland is positive, with a 3.4% growth rate observed between August 2016 and August 2017. The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a considerable employment growth of 13% between 2016 and 2026, indicating that the demand for medical billing and coding professionals will continue to rise in the coming years.
This growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for healthcare services, advancements in technology, and the need for skilled professionals to navigate the complex medical billing and coding landscape. With a solid education and certification, medical billing and coding professionals will continue to be in high demand in Maryland and across the country.
Average Salaries
The average annual salary for medical billers and coders in Maryland is estimated to be $48,730. This figure may vary depending on the region, with the Silver Spring-Frederick-Rockville area being the most lucrative, with an average salary of $54,950 per year. In the Baltimore and Towson area, medical billers and coders earn an average of $23.60 per hour and $49,090 per year.
The median salary for medical billers and coders in Salisbury, Maryland, is $18,61 per hour and $38,700 a year. In California-Lexington Park, the typical salary is reported to be $23.47 per hour and $48,820 annually.
These figures demonstrate that medical billing and coding professionals can expect competitive salaries in Maryland. With the right education, certification, and experience, professionals in this field can look forward to a rewarding career with ample opportunities for growth and advancement.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Pursuing a medical billing and coding program in Maryland may require financial assistance. Scholarships are available for students enrolled in these programs, but other financial aid options may be limited.
In this section, we will discuss the financial aid and scholarship options available to students seeking a medical billing and coding education in Maryland. Financial aid options such as grants, loans, and work-study programs may be available to eligible students. Additionally, some institutions may offer employer aid programs, providing financial assistance to students enrolled in medical billing and coding programs.
Financial Aid Options
Scholarship opportunities are available for students pursuing medical billing and coding programs in Maryland. To apply for scholarships, students should research available options and submit corresponding applications. Some of the scholarships available for medical billing and coding students in Maryland include the AACC Foundation Scholarship, Maryland Community College, the American Health Information Management Association, and the CHRC.
Other financial aid options may include grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students should explore all available options to find the financial assistance that best suits their educational needs and career goals.
Scholarships
In Maryland, there are several scholarships available for students pursuing medical billing and coding programs. The AACC Foundation Scholarship, Maryland Community College, the American Health Information Management Association, and the CHRC all offer scholarships for eligible students. To apply for these scholarships, students should research the specific requirements and submit their applications accordingly.
By taking advantage of these scholarship opportunities, students can pursue their dreams of becoming medical billing and coding professionals without the burden of financial constraints. With the right financial assistance, students can focus on their education and achieve their career goals in the healthcare industry.
Summary
Pursuing a medical billing and coding career in Maryland offers a promising future with competitive salaries and ample job opportunities. By choosing an accredited program, mastering essential coursework and skills, preparing for certification exams, and taking advantage of financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you can embark on a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. With the right education, certification, and determination, you can achieve your career goals and make a difference in the lives of patients and healthcare providers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a medical billing and coding in Maryland?
To become a medical biller and coder in Maryland, individuals should pursue a certificate or an associate degree from an accredited program. They will need to have coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, coding systems and procedure classification, and also pass the Certification Exam of the AAPC to become certified.
How much does a certified Medical Coder earn in Maryland?
Certified Medical Coders in Maryland earn an average of $60,350 per year, ranging from $53,080 to $69,340.
This is well above the national average for certified Medical Coders.
What are the medical coding certifications in Maryland?
In Maryland, medical coders can become certified through AAPC with certifications such as CIC, COC, CPC, CPC-I, CPCO, CPMA, and CRC. AHIMA also offers certifications such as the CCA (Certified Coding Associate), CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), or CCS-P (Certified Coding – Physician Based).
These certifications are the most sought-after in Maryland health systems, hospitals, and large group practices.
How much does a Medical Biller and coder make in Maryland?
On average, medical billers and coders in Maryland can make between $30,899 and $40,866 per year.
Additionally, salaries may vary depending on qualifications and experience.
