Connecticut Medical Billing and Coding Schools - CT
In the midst of significant changes brought about by new health care legislation, Connecticut has proven to be a leader in insurance exchanges, according to Yale News. As more individuals are covered by health care insurance exchanges, more individuals will have the opportunity to see the doctor -- and that may mean that more medical and health records will be created. Connecticut medical billing and coding schools may help fill the need for qualified workers in this area.
Medical billing and coding specialists, working under the umbrella of medical records and health information technicians, work behind the scenes to keep health records orderly, accurate and secure. By using strict classifications and codes, these experts deliver the quality records patients and physicians expect, as well as provide the information that makes insurance reimbursement run smoothly.
Connecticut medical billing and coding schools
Several colleges in Connecticut offer certificates in medical billing and coding, but students in certificate or degree courses may expect to study the following:
- Classification and coding
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Insurance reimbursement issues
- Ethics and privacy
Graduates may wish to receive certification of their skills. Though this is not a state requirement, many employers may seek out applicants who have earned certification, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov). The Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) is one route, as is the Certified Coding Associate (CCA). Requirements for the credential typically include graduating from an accredited program and passing an exam. Other certifications, such as the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) are available for those who have gained a certain amount of experience or further education. No matter the certification, continuing education is usually required to keep it current.
What to expect from a medical billing and coding career
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a national mean annual wage of $37,710 for medical records and health information technicians, including medical billers and coders, in 2013. Those in Connecticut fared better, with a mean annual wage of $42,640 in 2013.
The BLS predicts job growth of 22 percent nationwide for the profession from 2012 through 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. In the state of Connecticut, demand is expected to grow by 15.5 percent through 2020, according to Projections Central. This growth is expected to be spurred by an aging population, as well as the growing demand for accurate health records, especially in the wake of electronic health records requirements. Though some medical billing and coding specialists will find work in offices of physicians, the government and nursing homes or residential facilities, the majority of graduates are expected to find work in hospital settings.
Sources:
Accredited Program Directory, CAHIIM, http://www.cahiim.org/accredpgms.asp
"Connecticut becomes model for health care," Erica Pandey, February 27, 2014, Yale Daily News, http://yaledailynews.com/blog/2014/02/27/connecticut-becomes-model-for-health-care/
Connecticut, Occupational Employment Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2013, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ct.htm
Connecticut, Projections Central, http://www.projectionscentral.com/Projections/LongTerm
Health Information Technology Classes, Lincoln College of New England, http://www.lincolncollegene.edu/programs/associates-degree-college/health-information-technology-degree-classes
Medical Records and Health Technicians, Occupational Employment Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2013, http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292071.htm
Medical Records and Health Technicians, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, January 8, 2014, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm