What is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical billing and coding is the process of translating a patient's medical records and procedures into standardized codes, which are then used to submit claims to insurance providers for reimbursement. This critical role within the healthcare industry ensures that healthcare providers are properly compensated for the services they provide, and that patients' medical information is accurately documented and tracked.

Training Requirements

To become a medical biller and coder, you'll typically need to complete a formal training program, which can range from a few months to a year or more, depending on the program and your educational background. These programs cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding systems, and billing procedures, among others. Many programs also include an internship or externship component, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting.

Becoming a Medical Biller and Coder in Raleigh

The fastest way to become a medical biller and coder in Raleigh is to enroll in a local training program. These programs can typically be completed in as little as 6-12 months, depending on the program's structure and your schedule. Some of the most well-known medical billing and coding classes near you in Raleigh include:

Wake Technical Community College

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tuition: $4,500 (in-state), $8,500 (out-of-state)
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Wake Tech's medical billing and coding program provides comprehensive training in medical terminology, coding systems, and billing procedures. Students gain hands-on experience through a clinical externship, and upon completion, are prepared to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam.

Miller-Motte College

• Program Length: 9 months
• Tuition: $16,995
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Miller-Motte's medical billing and coding program covers a wide range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding systems, and insurance reimbursement. Students also have the opportunity to participate in an externship, gaining real-world experience in a healthcare setting.

Durham Technical Community College

• Program Length: 1 year
• Tuition: $4,500 (in-state), $8,500 (out-of-state)
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Durham Tech's medical billing and coding program prepares students for careers in medical office administration, with a focus on coding, billing, and reimbursement procedures. The program includes a clinical externship, and graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam.

Exploring a Career in Medical Billing and Coding Outside Raleigh

If this article has sparked your interest in becoming a Medical Biller and Coder, but you're not in the same state, don't let that hold you back. You have the chance to pursue a career as a Medical Biller and Coder in places like Cape Coral, Colorado Springs, Miami, Portland, or St. Louis. And if none of these locations fit, Dreambound makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to find and compare Medical Billing and Coding classes just by searching with their zip code. With a bit of determination and the right tools at your disposal, stepping into a successful healthcare career is completely doable, no matter your current location.

Online and Free Options

In addition to the local training programs in Raleigh, there are also online options available for those who prefer a more flexible learning environment or have scheduling constraints. Some of the online medical billing and coding programs that serve the Raleigh area include:

Ashworth College

• Program Length: Self-paced, typically 4-6 months
• Tuition: $799
• Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent
• Overview: Ashworth College's online medical billing and coding program provides comprehensive training in medical terminology, coding systems, and billing procedures. Students can complete the program at their own pace and are eligible to sit for the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam upon completion.

As for free options, there are a few community organizations in Raleigh that offer free or low-cost training programs for medical billing and coding, such as the Raleigh-Wake Human Services Resource Center and the Raleigh-Wake Workforce Development Board. These programs are typically shorter in duration and may not offer the same level of depth as the formal training programs, but they can be a great way to get started in the field.

Certification Process

Once you've completed your medical billing and coding training, the next step is to obtain a professional certification. The most widely recognized certifications in the field include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the Certified Coding Associate (CCA). To earn these certifications, you'll need to pass a comprehensive exam that tests your knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems, and billing procedures.

Job Environment in Raleigh

Raleigh is home to a thriving healthcare industry, with several major healthcare systems and hospitals that employ medical billers and coders. Some of the top employers for medical billers and coders in the Raleigh area include:

• UNC Health
• Duke University Health System
• WakeMed Health & Hospitals
• Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic
• Novant Health

The job outlook for medical billers and coders in Raleigh is quite positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 8% growth in employment for this occupation between 2022 and 2032. As the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve, the demand for skilled medical billers and coders is expected to remain strong.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in becoming a medical biller and coder in Raleigh, there are plenty of opportunities available to help you get started. Whether you choose to enroll in a local training program, an online program, or explore free community-based options, the key is to find a program that best fits your learning style, schedule, and career goals. With the right training and certification, you can become a valuable asset to the healthcare industry in Raleigh and beyond.

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