Medical Billing and Coding Certification in New Hampshire
Are you considering a career in medical billing and coding? New Hampshire offers a wealth of opportunities in this in-demand field. Discover the educational programs, certification paths, job prospects, and notable institutions that can help you achieve a medical billing and coding certification in New Hampshire, and launch a successful career in the healthcare industry.
Exploring Educational Opportunities in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is an ideal place to start your journey in medical billing and coding. With various certificate and degree programs available, you can find the right educational path to suit your goals.
Medical billers and coders play an essential role in the healthcare industry, ensuring accurate billing and smooth communication between healthcare providers and insurance companies. So, what are the educational opportunities available in New Hampshire?
Certificate Programs
Certificate programs in medical coding are widely available in New Hampshire, providing a solid foundation for aspiring coding specialists. Approved by the AAPC, these programs typically take about a year to complete. They cover essential skills and knowledge required for entry-level positions in the field. AHIMA also offers certifications such as Certified Coding Associate, Certified Coding Specialist, and Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Based, adding further credibility to your resume.
If you’re looking for a more intensive program, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock apprentice program lasts a couple of months and provides hands-on experience in medical coding. Completion of a certificate program can be a stepping stone toward a successful career in the healthcare industry.
Penn Foster offers both an online Medical Billing and Coding career diploma and online Medical Coding Professional Training.
Degree Programs
For those seeking a higher level of education, New Hampshire offers several AAPC-approved classroom training programs for medical coding across the state. NHTI, for example, offers a Medical Coding certificate that serves as an excellent foundation for a career in the dynamic and rapidly expanding area of health information management.
Coursework for obtaining AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Coding Specialist-Physician based (CCS-P) credentialing is recommended to include intermediate/advanced coding, insurance reimbursement, and medical sciences. A degree in medical billing and coding can open doors to higher-level positions and additional responsibilities in the field.
Path to Certification
Certification plays a crucial role in the medical billing and coding profession. Both AHIMA and AAPC offer various certifications to showcase your expertise and dedication to the field. The CCA, CPC, and COC tests are some of the most common certification exams available in New Hampshire.
Employers often expect their medical billing and coding staff to have a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification. This certification signifies the employee’s expertise and competence in the field.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for CPC certification from AAPC, an individual must become a member of the AAPC. Additionally, they must pass a 150-question multiple-choice exam and demonstrate either two years of medical billing and coding experience or 80 hours of coding education and one year of professional experience. This certification not only validates your skills but also increases your credibility in the job market.
For the CCA certification, applicants must provide proof of having completed their education at the high school level or higher. Both certifications require a strong foundation in medical billing and coding education to ensure professionals are well-prepared for the challenges they may face in their careers.
Specialty Credentials
In addition to the standard certifications, both AHIMA and AAPC offer speciality credentials for medical billing and coding professionals with expertise in specific medical specialities. AHIMA offers multiple certification programs in the field of medical coding. These include Certified Coding Associate, Certified Coding Specialist, and Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Based. On the other hand, AAPC provides three entry-level and two advanced-level CPC certifications designed for individuals with experience in coding for particular medical specialities.
These speciality credentials not only help professionals stand out in the job market but also demonstrate their commitment to continuous learning and growth within the healthcare field.
Job Market and Salary Outlook in New Hampshire
The job market for medical billing and coding professionals in New Hampshire is promising. With an ageing population, technological advancements, and the increasing prevalence of telemedicine, the state is projected to increase its number of medical billers and coders by 11% in the next five years.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that New Hampshire professionals are paid an average of $20.18 per hour. This rate of pay is higher compared to the national average. The most experienced medical billers and coders in the state have reported earning up to $57,500 annually.
Factors Influencing Job Prospects
Several factors impact job prospects for medical billing and coding professionals in New Hampshire. The state’s above-average senior citizen population contributes to the growing demand for healthcare services, leading to an increased need for qualified medical billers and coders. Additionally, certification is crucial for medical records specialists in terms of income, as it showcases their proficiency and understanding of the field.
Healthcare worker shortages are likely to occur in rural areas, further emphasising the importance of certification and education in expanding job opportunities for medical billing and coding professionals.
Notable Medical Billing and Coding Schools and Programs in New Hampshire
For those seeking quality education in medical billing and coding, New Hampshire is home to several notable institutions, including:
Southern New Hampshire University
Program Overview:
- Course Title: HIM 215 – Coding and Classification Systems
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Mode: 100% online, no set class times
- Credits Earned: 3 college credits
Course Highlights:
- Gain medical coding and billing skills applicable to real-world healthcare settings.
- Learn about various coding and classification systems crucial for Health Information Management (HIM).
- Understand clinical coding and how to categorize patient information for healthcare services.
- Prepare for career-focused standards in Health Information Management.
Key Learning Outcomes:
- Identify key terms within patient health records for valid coding.
- Differentiate between various coding classification systems.
- Explain the process of validating correct codes using electronic healthcare resources.
- Apply accurate healthcare guidelines for coding assignments.
Key Areas of Study:
- Coding Classification Systems: Group patient information based on criteria, logic, and conventions.
- ICD-10: System for medical claim reporting, including conditions, diseases, and health problems.
- HCPCS II: Coding for products, supplies, and services, including ambulance services and durable medical equipment.
- CPT and Evaluation Management: Reporting of medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures and services.
- Modifiers and Terminologies: Additional details for procedures or services for clarity and precision.
Nashua Community College
Program Overview:
- Format: 100% online
- Certification Preparation: Course prepares students for the CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification exams.
- Skills Learned:
- Use of HCPCS, CPT Category II, and ICD-10 codes.
- Hands-on practice with medical billing and coding software.
Key Course Objectives:
- Professional Certification: Prepare for Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exams.
- Coding Systems: Learn how to assign CPT Category II and ICD-10 codes in medical billing and coding procedures.
- Practical Experience: Gain hands-on billing experience with medical billing and coding software.
- Externship Starter Kit: Available to help students gain valuable field experience.
Each institution offers unique programs and opportunities for aspiring professionals in the field.
State Regulations and Licensing
Medical billers and coders in New Hampshire do not require a state license to practice in their field. However, obtaining certification from an accredited post-secondary school is highly recommended to demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers.
No State License Required
The lack of state licensure requirements for medical billing and coding professionals in New Hampshire allows individuals to enter the field more easily. Medical billers and coders are responsible for managing billing, insurance information, and financial and electronic health records in healthcare organizations to reduce billing errors and enhance care coordination.
Accredited education is essential for medical billing and coding professionals in New Hampshire to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their job responsibilities accurately and efficiently.
Importance of Accredited Education
Pursuing an accredited education in medical billing and coding is crucial for professionals in New Hampshire. An accredited program guarantees that the curriculum is taught correctly and equips students for their careers in the field.
Employers often demand Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification from their medical billing and coding employees. This certification can be obtained from accredited programs.
Medical Billing and Coding Roles and Responsibilities
Medical billers and coders play a vital role in the healthcare industry, ensuring accurate billing and smooth communication between healthcare providers and insurance companies. They manage billing, insurance information, and financial and electronic health records in healthcare organizations to reduce billing errors and enhance care coordination.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the medical billing and coding industry will experience a 13% increase in employment from 2016-2026, creating at least 27,000 new jobs. The average annual salary for medical billing and coding specialists is approximately $40,350, making it a rewarding career choice.
By pursuing a career in medical billing and coding, you can contribute to improving the quality of care while providing providers with the means to reduce billing discrepancies and bolster care coordination in an industry that requires it.
Summary
New Hampshire offers a wealth of opportunities for those pursuing a career in medical billing and coding. With a variety of educational programs, a strong job market, and a competitive salary outlook, this field presents a promising career choice for motivated individuals. By obtaining proper certification and education, you can position yourself for success in this dynamic and essential healthcare profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
What internship opportunities are available for medical billing and coding students in New Hampshire?
Several healthcare facilities in New Hampshire, including Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, offer internship and apprenticeship programs for students, providing hands-on experience and exposure to real-world billing and coding scenarios, which can improve job prospects after certification.
What are the top employers for medical billing and coding professionals in New Hampshire?
The top employers in New Hampshire include major healthcare systems like Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Catholic Medical Center, and Southern New Hampshire Health. These institutions often seek certified professionals to manage patient records, billing, and coding.
How does telemedicine impact medical billing and coding in New Hampshire?
Telemedicine has expanded rapidly in New Hampshire, increasing the need for specialized coding practices related to virtual healthcare services. Medical billing and coding professionals must be proficient in telehealth-related codes and billing guidelines to ensure accurate claim submissions for remote services.
