Massage Therapist vs Medical Biller and Coder
Key Points:
- Massage therapists provide therapeutic massages; medical billers and coders handle insurance claims and medical coding.
- Massage therapists typically earn less than medical billers and coders.
- Both fields have steady job growth.
- Massage therapy requires in-person training, while medical billing and coding can be learned through online or in-person programs.
- Massage therapy training is generally shorter and less expensive than the training for medical billing and coding.
As a workforce development specialist, I often come across students who are torn between pursuing a career as a massage therapist or a medical biller and coder. Both professions have their own unique set of skills and requirements, and it's important for individuals to understand the differences before making a decision. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of a massage therapist and a medical biller and coder, compare the job descriptions, education and training requirements, as well as the career outlook and salary potential for each profession.
Massage Therapist vs Medical Biller and Coder: Career Outlook and Salary
Massage Therapist:
- The career outlook for massage therapists is positive, with a projected growth rate of 21% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- The demand for massage therapists is driven by an increasing interest in alternative therapies and the benefits of massage for stress reduction and overall wellness.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for massage therapists was $43,620 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $82,240.
Medical Biller and Coder:
- The career outlook for medical billers and coders is also positive, with a projected growth rate of 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
- The demand for medical billers and coders is driven by an aging population and the increasing complexity of healthcare reimbursement systems.
- 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, with the highest 10% earning more than $73,370.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a career as a massage therapist or a medical biller and coder ultimately depends on an individual's interests, skills, and career goals. Both professions offer unique opportunities to make a difference in the healthcare industry, but they require different sets of skills and training.
If you enjoy working directly with clients, have a passion for holistic health, and have excellent interpersonal skills, a career as a massage therapist may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you have strong analytical and organizational skills, attention to detail, and an interest in the administrative side of healthcare, a career as a medical biller and coder may be a better fit.
Ultimately, it's important to thoroughly research and consider all aspects of each profession before making a decision. Vocational training programs and career counseling services can also provide valuable guidance and support in choosing the right path for your future.
Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:
