You probably know that the medical billing field is part of the health care industry, which is the fastest growing industry for jobs in the US. And medical billers account for one of the most sought after careers because of the high demand by billing services, billing companies and doctors offices. Coding is often mentioned but it is a separate function done by coders and the codes are implemented before they reach billing.
A medical biller collects posts and manages payments on accounts for medical and health-related professionals and businesses. A Medical Billing Specialist is granted that designation after passing a national exam that certifies them thus the use of the title. They generally will get a much higher hourly rate than a medical billing assistant or clerk.
Medical billers submit health or medical claims and do all the necessary follow up with the health insurance companies. Billers work with patients to solve any health or medical billing problems that may have cropped up. They'll help work out a repayment plan and help find resources to help patients make their payments that are not covered by health insurance.
A medical billing salary depends on the type and amount of education or medical billing training you have. You may get paid more if you have more education. Or you may get paid more if you have more experience. Generally the more experience you have will get you a higher rate rather than just starting out with more education. In most cases you will want to have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Because there are no specific education requirements you can try to work your way into this field if you are already working in the same company, doctor's office or clinic.
Salary will also depend on what city and state you live in and how much demand there is for medical billers. Although most billing jobs are daytime jobs and 40 hours per week, many insurance companies have evening and graveyard shifts in order to get the billing work done. Working these hours will give you a higher rate of pay.
So starting out you could be making $10 an hour with little experience in a smaller billing company or large doctor's office or clinic. You can work your way up to $30 or $40 an hour or get medical billing training and start at a rate in between. There are many variables in terms of salary and the best suggestion is to call around to the various billing companies in your area and ask what they pay their medical billers.
Medical coders have much the same salary range based on education and experience but if they want certification they need to pass a different exam. Medical coders get a higher salary also.
If you decide you want to go to work in this industry getting the best medical billing training will give you a higher salary. Make sure to check out the financial aid available for online courses, programs, classes and schools that are available for both online and on campus education and beware of scams.