Key Points:

• CPR-BLS providers perform emergency medical care; Medical Billers and Coders handle insurance claims and patient records.
• CPR-BLS jobs typically have lower pay, while Medical Billers and Coders can earn higher salaries.
• CPR-BLS jobs are more widely available, while Medical Billing and Coding jobs may be more specialized.
• CPR-BLS training is often shorter and can be done online, whereas Medical Billing and Coding usually requires in-person training.
• CPR-BLS training is generally less expensive and faster, while Medical Billing and Coding programs can be more costly and take longer.

The healthcare industry is a vast field with numerous career paths to choose from. Two popular options are becoming a CPR-BLS provider or a Medical Biller and Coder. While both professions are essential in the healthcare system, they require different skill sets and have unique responsibilities. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast these two career paths to help you decide which one may be the right fit for you.

What is a CPR-BLS and Medical Biller and Coder?

CPR-BLS (Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers):

• CPR-BLS providers are trained in life-saving techniques such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
• They work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency medical services.
• CPR-BLS providers are often the first responders in emergency situations and play a critical role in saving lives.

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Medical billers and coders are responsible for translating medical procedures and diagnoses into standardized codes for billing purposes.
• They work in healthcare facilities, insurance companies, and billing companies.
• Medical billers and coders ensure that healthcare providers receive accurate and timely reimbursement for their services.

Difference between a CPR-BLS and Medical Biller and Coder

While both CPR-BLS providers and Medical Billers and Coders work in the healthcare industry, their job responsibilities and skill sets differ significantly. Here are some of the key differences between these two professions:

• Job Responsibilities: CPR-BLS providers focus on emergency response and life-saving techniques, while Medical Billers and Coders handle billing and coding tasks.
• Skill Set: CPR-BLS providers need to be proficient in CPR, AED usage, and emergency response protocols. Medical Billers and Coders, on the other hand, require knowledge of medical coding systems, billing software, and insurance regulations.
• Work Environment: CPR-BLS providers typically work in fast-paced, high-stress environments such as hospitals and emergency departments. Medical Billers and Coders often work in office settings, where they can focus on coding and billing tasks without direct patient interaction.
• Training and Certification: CPR-BLS providers need to complete a certification course that covers life-saving techniques and emergency protocols. Medical Billers and Coders generally require a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in medical billing and coding.
• Career Growth: CPR-BLS providers can advance their careers by becoming instructors or pursuing further training in specialized areas such as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or pediatric life support (PALS). Medical Billers and Coders can advance to supervisory roles or specialize in specific areas of medical coding, such as anesthesia or radiology.

CPR-BLS vs Medical Biller and Coder: Job Description

CPR-BLS Job Description:

• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use automated external defibrillators (AEDs) when necessary.
• Assess and stabilize patients in emergency situations.
• Administer basic life support techniques, including airway management and ventilation.
• Collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure the best possible patient outcomes.
• Document and report all actions taken during emergency response situations.

Medical Biller and Coder Job Description:

• Assign standardized codes to medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments.
• Review patient records to ensure accuracy and completeness of coding.
• Communicate with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and resolve coding-related issues.
• Submit claims to insurance companies and follow up on payment status.
• Adhere to coding guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance with billing practices.

CPR-BLS vs Medical Biller and Coder: Education and Training

CPR-BLS Education and Training:

• CPR-BLS providers typically complete a certification course that can be completed in a few days or weeks.
• The course covers topics such as CPR techniques, AED usage, and emergency response protocols.
• After completing the course, CPR-BLS providers must pass a certification exam to become certified.

Medical Biller and Coder Education and Training:

• Medical Billers and Coders generally require a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in medical billing and coding.
• The certificate programs typically take around one year to complete, while associate's degree programs take two years.
• Coursework includes medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding systems, and healthcare billing practices.
• Some employers may also require certification from a professional organization, such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

CPR-BLS vs Medical Biller and Coder: Career Outlook and Salary

CPR-BLS Career Outlook and Salary:

• The demand for CPR-BLS providers is expected to grow due to the increasing need for emergency medical services.
• Job prospects are generally favorable, especially for those with additional certifications in advanced life support techniques.
• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, which includes CPR-BLS providers, was $35,400 in May 2020.

Medical Biller and Coder Career Outlook and Salary:

• The demand for Medical Billers and Coders is also expected to grow, driven by the aging population and the need for accurate medical coding and billing.
• Job prospects are projected to be excellent, especially for certified professionals.
• According to the BLS, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians, which includes Medical Billers and Coders, was $44,090 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career path in the healthcare industry can be a challenging decision. Both CPR-BLS and Medical Billing and Coding offer unique opportunities to contribute to the healthcare system. Consider your interests, skills, and long-term goals when making your decision. Whether you choose to become a CPR-BLS provider or a Medical Biller and Coder, both professions play vital roles in ensuring the health and well-being of patients.

Dreambound's programs are available in different places. Check these blogs for a good look at the two vocations, including what you need and tips on how to start:

• CPR-BLS in Nebraska
• Medical Biller and Coder in Nebraska
• CPR-BLS classes near you
• Medical Biller and Coder classes near you