Key Points:

• Medical Billers and Coders handle insurance claims and patient records, while Veterinary Assistants provide care and support to animals and their owners.
• Medical Billers and Coders typically earn higher salaries than Veterinary Assistants.
• Both fields have good job prospects.
• Medical Billing and Coding programs are often available online and in-person, while Veterinary Assistant training is mostly in-person.
• Medical Billing and Coding programs can range from 6 months to 2 years, while Veterinary Assistant programs typically last 1 year.

If you're considering a career in the medical field but aren't sure which path to take, you may be torn between becoming a medical biller and coder or a veterinary assistant. While both professions offer opportunities to work in healthcare, they have different job descriptions, educational requirements, and career outlooks. In this blog post, we'll explore the similarities and differences between these two professions to help you make an informed decision.

What is a Medical Biller and Coder and Veterinary Assistant?

Medical Biller and Coder: A medical biller and coder plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry by ensuring that medical records are accurately coded and bills are properly processed. They translate medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into alphanumeric codes that insurance companies use for billing and reimbursement purposes. Medical billers and coders also review patient information for accuracy and completeness and work closely with healthcare providers and insurance companies to resolve billing issues.

Veterinary Assistant: A veterinary assistant works in a veterinary clinic or hospital and provides support to veterinarians and veterinary technicians. They assist with various tasks, including animal handling, administering medications, collecting samples for laboratory testing, cleaning and sterilizing equipment, and providing basic care to animals. Veterinary assistants also help with paperwork, schedule appointments, and interact with pet owners.

Difference between a Medical Biller and Coder and Veterinary Assistant

While both professions are essential in their respective fields, there are several key differences between medical billers and coders and veterinary assistants:

1. Work Environment: Medical billers and coders typically work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. They spend most of their time behind a desk, working with electronic health records and billing systems. On the other hand, veterinary assistants work directly with animals and are often on their feet for much of the day.

2. Job Duties: Medical billers and coders focus on coding and billing tasks, ensuring accurate reimbursement for medical services provided. They may also handle insurance claims and follow up on unpaid bills. Veterinary assistants, on the other hand, have a more hands-on role in animal care, assisting with exams, treatments, and surgeries.

3. Specialization: Medical billers and coders typically work in a specific area of healthcare, such as outpatient services or emergency medicine. They may specialize in certain coding systems or medical specialties. Veterinary assistants, on the other hand, work with a variety of animals and may assist with care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and other pets.

4. Certification Requirements: While certification is not always required, many employers prefer to hire certified medical billers and coders. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the American Academy of Professional Coders or the American Health Information Management Association. Veterinary assistants may also pursue certification, such as the Approved Veterinary Assistant designation offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Veterinary Assistant: Job Description

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Review patient information for accuracy and completeness
• Assign alphanumeric codes to medical diagnoses, procedures, and treatments
• Ensure that medical records are properly coded for billing and reimbursement
• Work with healthcare providers and insurance companies to resolve billing issues
• Stay up to date on coding guidelines and regulations

Veterinary Assistant:

• Assist with animal handling and restraint during exams and procedures
• Administer medications and treatments as directed by veterinarians or veterinary technicians
• Collect and prepare samples for laboratory testing
• Clean and sterilize equipment and exam rooms
• Provide basic care to animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercise

Medical Biller and Coder vs Veterinary Assistant: Education and Training

Medical Biller and Coder:

• Most medical billers and coders have a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in medical billing and coding.
• Courses typically include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding systems, and billing procedures.
• Some employers may require additional training or certification in specific coding systems.

Veterinary Assistant:

• Veterinary assistants typically have a high school diploma or GED.
• Some employers may provide on-the-job training, while others prefer candidates with formal education, such as a certificate or associate degree in veterinary assisting.
• Coursework may cover topics such as animal anatomy, medical terminology, and veterinary procedures.

Medical Biller and Coder vs Veterinary Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

Medical Biller and Coder:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical records and health information technicians, including medical billers and coders, is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029.
• The median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $44,090 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Veterinary Assistant:

• The BLS does not provide specific data for veterinary assistants, but the employment of veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029.
• According to the BLS, the median annual wage for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers was $28,590 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a medical biller and coder or a veterinary assistant ultimately depends on your interests and career goals. If you enjoy working with animals and prefer a more hands-on role in healthcare, becoming a veterinary assistant may be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you have an eye for detail, enjoy working with medical records, and prefer a desk-based job, a career as a medical biller and coder may be the right choice.

Consider your strengths, interests, and long-term career goals when making your decision. Both professions offer opportunities for growth and advancement, so choose the path that aligns with your passions and aspirations.

Dreambound extends its programs to various locations. Visit the suggested blogs to delve deeply into the intricate details of the two vocations, learning about their respective requirements and gaining valuable insights on how to kickstart your involvement:

• Medical Biller and Coder in Nebraska
• Veterinary Assistant in Nebraska
• Medical Biller and Coder classes near you