When it comes to vocational training, there are many options to choose from. Two popular career paths in the healthcare industry are medical billing and coding, and physical therapy. While both careers offer opportunities to work in a medical setting, there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of a medical biller and coder and a physical therapy technician, and compare the two careers to help you make an informed decision about your vocational training.

What is a Medical Biller and Coder?

A medical biller and coder is responsible for ensuring that healthcare providers are properly reimbursed for their services. They review patient medical records, assign diagnostic and procedural codes, and submit claims to insurance companies. They also follow up on unpaid claims and work with insurance companies to resolve any billing issues.

What is a Physical Therapy Technician?

A physical therapy technician, on the other hand, works directly with physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries or surgeries. They assist patients with exercises and treatments, set up and clean treatment areas, and document patient progress. They may also provide administrative support, such as scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records.

Difference between a Medical Biller and Coder and Physical Therapy Technician

While both medical billing and coding and physical therapy are important aspects of the healthcare industry, there are some key differences between the two careers:

• Job Duties: Medical billers and coders primarily work with patient medical records and insurance claims, while physical therapy technicians work directly with patients.
• Training: Medical billers and coders typically complete a vocational training program or earn an associate's degree in medical billing and coding. Physical therapy technicians usually complete a certificate program or associate's degree in physical therapy assisting.
• Work Environment: Medical billers and coders often work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, while physical therapy technicians can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.
• Career Outlook: Both careers have positive job outlooks, with an increasing demand for medical billers and coders due to the aging population and a growing need for physical therapy technicians as the population continues to age and more people seek physical therapy services.
• Salary: The salary for medical billers and coders can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer. Physical therapy technicians also have a range of salaries depending on these factors, but they generally earn slightly more than medical billers and coders.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Physical Therapy Technician: Job Description

• Medical Biller and Coder: As a medical biller and coder, your main responsibilities will include reviewing patient medical records, assigning diagnostic and procedural codes, and submitting claims to insurance companies. You will also be responsible for following up on unpaid claims and resolving any billing issues. Attention to detail and knowledge of medical terminology are essential for this role.
• Physical Therapy Technician: As a physical therapy technician, you will work directly with physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries or surgeries. Your duties may include assisting patients with exercises and treatments, setting up and cleaning treatment areas, and documenting patient progress. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are important for this role.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Physical Therapy Technician: Education and Training

• Medical Biller and Coder: To become a medical biller and coder, you will need to complete a vocational training program or earn an associate's degree in medical billing and coding. These programs typically cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and medical billing and coding procedures. Some programs may also include an internship or practicum to provide hands-on experience.
• Physical Therapy Technician: To become a physical therapy technician, you will need to complete a certificate program or earn an associate's degree in physical therapy assisting. These programs typically cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, therapeutic exercises, and patient care skills. Some programs may also include clinical rotations to provide practical experience.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Physical Therapy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

• Medical Biller and Coder: The demand for medical billers and coders is expected to grow in the coming years due to the aging population and increased need for healthcare services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians, which includes medical billers and coders, was $44,090 in May 2020.
• Physical Therapy Technician: The demand for physical therapy technicians is also expected to grow as the population continues to age and more people seek physical therapy services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapist assistants and aides, which includes physical therapy technicians, was $49,970 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Both medical billing and coding and physical therapy assisting are rewarding career paths that offer opportunities to work in the healthcare industry. While medical billers and coders primarily work with patient medical records and insurance claims, physical therapy technicians work directly with patients to help them recover from injuries or surgeries. The choice between the two careers ultimately depends on your interests and career goals. If you enjoy working with numbers and have an attention to detail, medical billing and coding may be a good fit for you. If you prefer working directly with patients and helping them on their path to recovery, physical therapy assisting may be the right choice. Whichever career path you choose, both provide opportunities for growth and a chance to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Discover Dreambound's program accessibility across various locations. For detailed insights into the two vocations, their requirements, and joining procedures, explore the following blogs:

• Medical Biller and Coder in Maryland
• Physical Therapy Technician in Maryland
• Medical Biller and Coder classes near you
• Physical Therapy Technician classes near you