Medical coding is the process of designating universally accepted alphanumeric codes to various medical diagnosis, procedures and treatments. These alphanumeric codes are known as International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes. These codes have a pivotal role in health care systems in many countries where medical facilities are availed through insurance benefits. The USA is one of these countries where medical coding offers a lucrative career. As a result of outsourcing jobs, India has become a hub for these medicalcoding jobs. With the ever-growing health care industry, there are a plethora of opportunities waiting to be grabbed by enthusiastic medical coders. The requirement for medical coders is rising steadily.
Who can take up medical coding?
Anyone with a graduate degree can take up this as career provided they get trained in its basics. However, a life-sciences graduate will have an edge over others in understanding terms related to pharmacy, anatomy and medical procedures etc. which are essential in this field. Medical coders have to gain knowledge on ICD 9/10 and CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) which play a vital role in this profession.
What does a medical coder do?
- Communicates with health care providers like physicians, nursing staff, and other technicians to classify or group the services received by the patient.
- Applies the ICD, CPT and HCPCS (The Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) codes to patient records such that they reflect the services received by the patient accurately.
- Enters the data in EHR (Electronic Health Record) and EMR (Electronic Medical Record).
Going forward: According to estimates, medical coding jobs will increase by more than 20% by the year 2022, which suggests that demand for proficient medical coders will be high. The outlook for medical coding services industry is very promising as there are many companies in India which are into this business. Avontix is the right destination for job seekers who want to make it big in the Health Information Management field. This is one of the best organizations which provides medical transcription services and EHR services alongside medical coding services.
Setting up your own business: Medical coding industry is one place which offers flexibility in working. If you are a new entrant in the field, you can join a company as an employee. Or, if you have enough experience and think that you can take up this on your own, then you can become an entrepreneur and start your own business in medical coding domain. It’s upon you, how much you want to learn and grow as a medical coder. The horizons are far and wide…set your target and reach it.
Visit : Avontix