Discover Medical Billing and Coding Certification in Mississippi
The healthcare industry relies on skilled medical billing and coding professionals to ensure accurate record-keeping and timely reimbursements. If you are considering a career in this field, Mississippi offers a variety of certification and education options to help you succeed. In this blog post, we will explore the medical billing and coding certification in Mississippi, the certification process, approved programs, exam preparation, job outlook, salary expectations, and top healthcare employers in the state.
Mississippi Certification Process
While Mississippi does not require certification for medical billing and coding professionals, obtaining certification is strongly recommended to increase employment opportunities and showcase your expertise in the field.
Detailed certification resources are available to guide you through the process and help develop your skills as a medical biller and coder.
Importance of Certification
Obtaining national certification in medical billing and coding can significantly bolster your credentials, making you an attractive candidate to potential employers in Mississippi. Many healthcare facilities in the state require certification to ensure their staff members are well-versed in the latest medical billing and coding practices.
Certifications are provided by reputable organizations such as the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). These organizations offer various certification levels, equipping individuals with the necessary qualifications to pursue rewarding careers in medical billing and coding.
Education Options
In Mississippi, there are three levels of education available for medical coders and billers: associate, bachelor’s, and certificate programs. Depending on the program you choose, the timeline for completion can range from 6 months to 4 years. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is generally required to enrol in these programs, and there are no national examinations or entrance tests required to begin your education in medical billing and coding.
As you research and compare medical billing and coding programs in Mississippi, it’s essential to assess the schools based on the criteria that are most important to you. This may include factors such as program duration, cost, curriculum, and accreditation status.
Internships and Work Experience
Gaining practical experience in the medical billing and coding field is crucial for success in certification exams and future employment. Many medical coding and billing programs in Mississippi arrange internships or work experience opportunities with local business employers, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience.
By participating in internships or gaining work experience, you can develop a deeper understanding of the medical billing and coding field while building a professional network that may lead to potential job opportunities. These experiences are a critical component of your education and can significantly impact your success in certification exams and your overall career in medical billing and coding.
Approved Programs in Mississippi
There are several approved medical billing and coding programs in Mississippi, offering both online and in-person options. These programs provide the necessary education and training to help you succeed in this growing field. Program start dates vary, allowing you to choose a program that best fits your schedule and learning preferences.
Some of the approved programs in Mississippi include:
Delta Technical College
Program Overview
- The Medical Coding Specialist program at Delta Technical College (DTC) offers hands-on training for entry-level employment in hospitals, medical offices, and insurance companies.
- The program is available at the Horn Lake, MS campus.
Program Features
- Hands-On Training: Instruction includes the analysis of medical records, coding, and understanding diseases affecting the human body.
- Accelerated Learning: Earn a diploma in as few as 9 months.
- Experienced Instructors: All instructors have real-world experience.
- Flexible Schedule: Daytime and evening classes are available to accommodate different schedules.
- Employment Preparation: Focus on the skills required for entry-level employment without general education courses.
- Career Placement Assistance: Career counseling and placement assistance for qualified graduates.
Curriculum Highlights
- Core Subjects: CPT & Modifiers, Office Skills & Coding, Administration & Coding, Insurance Guidelines & Coding, Insurance Claims & Coding, Employment Prep, and Externship.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
- Externship: Practical experience through externships included in the program.
Program Details
- Length: 35 weeks (9 months)
- Total Hours: 765 clock hours (including 225 externship hours)
- Credits: 28 semester credits
- Diploma: Awarded upon completion
Financial Assistance
- Financial Aid: Personalized support from DTC’s Financial Aid Team for federal financial aid applications and understanding funding options.
- Scholarships: Assistance in finding and applying for scholarship opportunities.
Medical Billing and Coding Program at Antonelli College
Program Overview
- Antonelli College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Billing and Coding.
- The program prepares students for careers in the business side of healthcare, focusing on medical billing and coding.
Program Features
- Hands-On Training: Students receive practical training essential for entry-level employment in healthcare settings.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are eligible to take the Certified Professional Coders (CPC) examination.
- Career Opportunities: Employment opportunities include hospitals, physicians’ offices, outpatient and urgent care centers, medical insurance companies, and public health departments.
Locations
- Cincinnati, OH: 124 E Seventh Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Hattiesburg, MS: 1500 N 31st Ave, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
- Jackson, MS: 2323 Lakeland Drive, Jackson, MS 39232
Additional Programs Offered
- Medical Assisting: Associate of Applied Business in Medical Assisting
- Practical Nursing: Diploma in Practical Nursing
Online and In-Person Options
In Mississippi, you have the flexibility to choose between online and in-person medical billing and coding programs. Online courses provide the convenience of learning at your own pace and on your schedule, allowing you to balance your education with your personal and professional commitments. In-person programs are available at community colleges and vocational schools, offering a more traditional classroom setting and the opportunity to interact with instructors and fellow students.
Some of the educational institutions in Mississippi offering medical billing and coding programs include Coahoma Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and Antonelli College. These schools provide comprehensive training in medical billing and coding, ensuring you are well-prepared for certification exams and employment in the healthcare industry.
Penn Foster offers both an online Medical Billing and Coding career diploma and online Medical Coding Professional Training.
Program Start Dates
Medical billing and coding programs in Mississippi do not have fixed start and end dates, providing you with the flexibility to begin your education when it is most convenient for you. This allows you to tailor your learning experience to your specific needs and schedule, ensuring you can fully commit to your education without feeling overwhelmed.
For those who prefer online courses, these programs are entirely online and can be completed at your preferred pace and schedule. This allows you to progress through the material as quickly or slowly as you need, ensuring you fully understand the concepts and are prepared for the certification exams.
Preparing for the Certification Exam
In Mississippi, national exams covering major areas of knowledge studied in medical billing and coding training programs are used for certification. Proper exam preparation is essential to ensure you are well-equipped to pass the certification exam and begin your career in this thriving field.
In the following sections, we will provide an overview of the certification exams and offer various study tips and resources to help you succeed.
Exam Overview
There are several national certification exams available for medical billing and coding professionals in Mississippi. The five major national examinations employed for medical coding certification include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Based (CCS-P), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), and Certified Coding Specialist-Outpatient (CCS-O).
Each of these exams tests your knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS, and modifiers. They are designed to ensure that certified professionals are proficient in the most current medical billing and coding practices, making them valuable employees in the healthcare industry.
Job Outlook and Salary Information
The job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals in Mississippi is promising, with a projected 12% increase in jobs by 2024 and the highest demand in major cities. Additionally, the healthcare employment sector in Mississippi is expected to grow by 30% by 2020, with 54,280 job openings between 2010 and 2020.
Job Growth and Demand
Medical billing and coding professionals in Mississippi can expect an annual growth rate of 4% over the coming years, making this a thriving field with ample employment opportunities. The average salary for medical billers and coders in Mississippi is $30,700 annually, with the highest earners making up to $47,250.
Demand for medical billing and coding specialists is particularly high in major cities of Mississippi. These cities include Northeast Mississippi, Jackson, Southwest Mississippi, Northwest Mississippi, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, and Pascagoula. These areas offer a variety of employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, ensuring a steady job market for qualified professionals.
Salary Expectations
The average salary for medical billing and coding professionals in Mississippi is $46,250 per year, with factors such as experience, location, and employer influencing salary expectations. As you gain experience and additional certifications, you can expect your earning potential to increase, making this a rewarding career path with room for growth.
It’s important to keep in mind that salaries can vary significantly depending on the region and type of employer. However, with the promising job outlook and growing demand for medical billing and coding professionals in Mississippi, pursuing a career in this field can provide financial stability and opportunities for professional growth.
Top Healthcare Employers in Mississippi
In Mississippi, several top healthcare employers offer competitive salaries and benefits for medical billing and coding professionals. These employers include Anderson Regional Medical Center, Forrest General Hospital, Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, North Mississippi Medical Center-Tupelo, and St. Dominic Hospital.
North Mississippi Medical Center
North Mississippi Medical Center is a hospital system with multiple locations in Mississippi and Alabama. As a Level II trauma centre, it serves a diverse patient population and offers a variety of medical services. The medical centre is committed to providing its employees with competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan with company match, paid vacations, tuition reimbursement, and health, dental, life, and vision coverage.
By joining the North Mississippi Medical Center team, you can enjoy a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and provides opportunities for advancement in the medical billing and coding field.
Central Mississippi Medical Center
Central Mississippi Medical Center (CMMC) is a 473-bed healthcare facility located in the Jackson metropolitan area. As the largest hospital in the state, CMMC offers a wide range of medical services and is committed to providing excellent patient care. The hospital also offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision coverage, a flexible spending program, access to a credit union, a 401(k) plan, an employee assistance program, long-term and short-term disability options, and cancer and accident insurance.
Working at Central Mississippi Medical Center provides medical billing and coding professionals with a dynamic work environment and ample opportunities for growth and professional development within the healthcare industry.
Forest General Hospital
Forrest General Hospital, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a 547-bed facility providing medical excellence to South Mississippi. Established in 1952, it has become a leader in the region and serves as the flagship hospital for the Forrest Health organization, which provides healthcare services to 19 counties across Mississippi.
Forrest General Hospital offers its employees competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, ensuring a rewarding work experience for medical billing and coding professionals. By pursuing a career at Forrest General Hospital, you can contribute to the hospital’s mission of providing the highest quality healthcare to the people of South Mississippi.
Summary
Pursuing a career in medical billing and coding in Mississippi offers promising job prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth and professional development. With a variety of certification and education options available, as well as top healthcare employers in the state, Mississippi provides a supportive environment for aspiring medical billing and coding professionals. By obtaining the necessary certifications and education, you can embark on a rewarding career path in the thriving healthcare industry of Mississippi.
Discover Medical Billing and Coding Opportunities in Nearby States
If you’re looking to expand your medical billing and coding career options, explore our detailed resources for:
These pages provide specific insights into each state’s requirements, such as certification processes, training opportunities, and employment outlook. By exploring these resources, you’ll gain a better understanding of the job market, potential earnings, and educational pathways available, helping you to make well-informed decisions as you advance in the field of medical billing and coding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a certified medical coder earn in Mississippi?
On average, certified medical coders in Mississippi can earn between $45,910 and $59,970 per year. This compares to a national average salary of $50,047 for certified medical coders.
Are there any state-specific healthcare regulations in Mississippi that affect medical billing and coding?
Yes, Mississippi has its own Medicaid policies and regulations that must be followed when processing claims, especially regarding patient eligibility and billing for Medicaid-covered services.
What is the job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals in rural areas of Mississippi?
The job outlook is positive, particularly in rural healthcare facilities, where there is an increasing demand for certified medical billers and coders due to the growing need for healthcare services and digital record-keeping.
What professional organizations in Mississippi support medical billing and coding professionals?
The Mississippi Health Information Management Association (MSHIMA) and local AAPC chapters provide resources, networking, and continuing education opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals across the state.
Which medical coding certification pays the most?
Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certifications typically offer the highest salaries in medical coding. In addition to extensive experience, obtaining this certification demonstrates a mastery of medical coding that can lead to higher-paying positions in the industry.
