In today's rapidly evolving healthcare industry, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can provide essential support and specialized care. Two professions that are often considered are medical billing and coding and respiratory therapy. While both careers are rewarding and have their own unique qualities, there are several key differences that prospective students should consider when deciding which path to pursue. In this blog post, we will explore the roles and responsibilities of medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists, as well as the education and training required for each profession. We will also delve into the career outlook and salary potential for both fields.

What is a Medical Biller and Coder and Respiratory Therapist?

Before we delve into the differences between medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists, let's first understand the role of each profession.

Medical Biller and Coder: Medical billers and coders play a crucial role in the healthcare system by ensuring accurate and timely payment for medical services. They are responsible for translating medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into standardized codes used for billing and insurance purposes. These professionals work closely with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients to process claims and resolve any billing discrepancies.

Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals who specialize in providing care for patients with breathing and cardiopulmonary disorders. They work under the supervision of physicians and are responsible for assessing, treating, and monitoring patients with respiratory conditions. Respiratory therapists may administer breathing treatments, conduct diagnostic tests, and provide education and support to patients and their families.

Difference between a Medical Biller and Coder and Respiratory Therapist

While both medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists play important roles in the healthcare system, there are several key differences between the two professions:

1. Job Responsibilities:

   • Medical Biller and Coder: The primary responsibility of a medical biller and coder is to assign codes to medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments. They also review and process insurance claims, verify patient information, and ensure compliance with coding guidelines and regulations.
   • Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists focus on the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with respiratory conditions. They perform diagnostic tests, administer breathing treatments, monitor patient progress, and educate patients and their families on respiratory care.

2. Work Environment:

   • Medical Biller and Coder: Most medical billers and coders work in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. They typically work in an office setting and may interact with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients.
   • Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare agencies. They often work directly with patients and may need to respond to emergencies or work in critical care units.

3. Specialization:

   • Medical Biller and Coder: While medical billers and coders may specialize in certain areas such as inpatient or outpatient coding, their primary focus is on accurately assigning codes and processing claims.
   • Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists can specialize in various areas such as neonatal/pediatric care, critical care, or sleep disorders. They may also pursue additional certifications or training to enhance their skills and knowledge.

4. Patient Interaction:

   • Medical Biller and Coder: Medical billers and coders generally have limited direct patient interaction. Their primary focus is on the administrative aspects of healthcare, such as coding, billing, and insurance claims.
   • Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists work directly with patients on a regular basis. They provide hands-on care, educate patients on respiratory conditions, and offer support and guidance throughout the treatment process.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Respiratory Therapist: Job Description

Now that we have a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists, let's take a closer look at their job descriptions:

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Assigning codes to medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments.
• Reviewing and processing insurance claims.
• Verifying patient information and ensuring accuracy in coding.
• Resolving billing discrepancies and addressing insurance-related issues.
• Collaborating with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients to ensure timely and accurate payment.

Respiratory Therapist:

• Assessing and evaluating patients with respiratory conditions.
• Performing diagnostic tests and interpreting results.
• Administering breathing treatments and medications.
• Monitoring patient progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
• Providing education and support to patients and their families on respiratory care.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Respiratory Therapist: Education and Training

The education and training required for medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists differ significantly:

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Education: Most medical billers and coders have a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in medical billing and coding. These programs typically cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, coding systems, and medical billing practices.
• Certification: While certification is not always required, many employers prefer to hire certified medical billers and coders. The most common certifications include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Respiratory Therapist:

• Education: Respiratory therapists must have at least an associate degree in respiratory therapy from an accredited program. These programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and patient assessment.
• Licensure: Respiratory therapists must be licensed in the state in which they practice. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include completion of an accredited respiratory therapy program and passing a national licensing examination.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Respiratory Therapist: Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook and salary potential for medical billers and coders and respiratory therapists also differ:

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Career Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical records and health information technicians (which includes medical billers and coders) is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing demand for healthcare services and the transition to electronic health records are driving this growth.
• Median Salary: The median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $44,090 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Respiratory Therapist:

• Career Outlook: The BLS projects that employment of respiratory therapists will grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily due to the aging population and the increased incidence of respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
• Median Salary: The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $63,950 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare industry requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Both medical billing and coding and respiratory therapy offer unique opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives and contribute to the healthcare system. It is essential to thoroughly research each profession, including their job responsibilities, education requirements, and career outlook, to make an informed decision. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your individual strengths, preferences, and professional aspirations.

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:

• Medical Biller and Coder in Mississippi
• Respiratory Therapist in Mississippi
• Medical Biller and Coder classes near you
• Respiratory Therapist classes near you