Pursuing a career in medical billing familiarizes you with a variety of fields and interests. Even so, medical billing is a profession that, unfortunately, has not gained much popularity. So, we decided we’d create awareness about the subject with this article. First, let us learn what it is:
What is Medical Billing?
Medical billing is an emerging field that allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds – the sciences and the business/ finances. As a medical billing specialist, you take care of all the payments and financial dealings between a patient, the healthcare provider, and the insurance company.
The workspace may consist of your laptop and work table only. But, to really be great at what you do, you’ll also need alertness and presence of mind. The occupation majorly revolves around making Excel sheets, studying medical reports, and having the proper knowledge about all insurance policies and clauses. Also, this field demands you use an appropriate display of ethics, speaking and communication skills, and your ability for attention to detail.
As an expert in the subject, you will ensure the proper care of the patients, coupled with smooth and hassle-free payments from the service providers. Moreover, the required level of micromanagement makes a medical billing specialist an integral part of their department.
What Makes Medical Billing a Favorable Emerging Field?
The priorities of a career-oriented person are how relevant their chosen profession feels to them and the scope of the said field in the market. Often, youngsters will compromise their interests to get a stable job rather than explore a new path to walk upon. This is the main reason why medical billing has not gained the recognition it deserves. But we can’t let that be the case.
So, here’s why becoming a medical billing specialist is as great a job as working as a doctor or businessman:
1. Experience Flexibility
The flexibility and ease that a medical billing specialist enjoys make it an even more interesting, interactive, and less-burdensome profession. Moreover, flexibility is not limited to a particular aspect. You get to experience versatility in a professional setting you prefer. It could be while working at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, administrative support centers, or in medical laboratories.
Aside from that, you can divide your workload according to your convenience. For instance, individuals juggling multiple jobs at a time will find medical billing much less exacting as a career. In short, this is perfect as a part-time job and can be equally fulfilling as a full-time job as well.
In addition, you get the liberty to choose where you work. It could be from home, your favorite coffee shop, or the doctor’s office. All you need is your laptop, your phone, and a strong Wi-Fi connection, and you’re good to go. Consequently, this allows you to choose an attire that you feel comfortable in. The need for physical interaction with your clients is often minimal. Being in a medical and a business field, you could also choose to wear scrubs or a suit — whatever you deem fit.
2. Easy Certification in Medical Billing
Another positive aspect of this profession is its short training period. People in search of short-term specializations to support themselves financially should seriously consider this field. Many institutions offer a one-year program – some, even shorter — to complete a certification in medical billing. We’d suggest that you get proper career counseling before choosing this profession.
Now, about the certification and what you learn from it. You will notice, during this time, that you will study anatomy, medical laws, and medical coding. The program also offers a conceptual understanding of insurance policies and applications.
3. A Strong Job Outlook for Medical Billing
Convenience, ease, and numerous job opportunities. Medical billing provides it all. It is not only an occupation of comfort but also has multiple platforms to showcase your skills. This is highly important for building a stable career. In many cases, the field is at saturation or requires full exploration. Luckily, that is not the case for medical billing.
Instead, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the job outlook for medical billing is increasing at a rate of 13% annually, which is above the average threshold. Besides, BLS data sheets also provide information about the annual salary. It starts at $40,000 and can vary depending on your level of expertise and workplace preference.
4. A Sense of Achievement
All the factors listed above are personally beneficial for a specialist. But some people yearn to make a difference in their society and believe in impacting the world positively. Medical billing proves to be a philanthropic occupation as well. It allows you to rid patients of payment and unnecessary financial dealings when they are already suffering through medical conditions. Also, you become a reliable link to ensure efficient payment to all those involved.
5. Medical Billing as a Wholesome and Lucrative Profession
Unlike many desk professions, medical billing allows you to grow and progress all the time. The exposure you get from this position not only keeps you informed about various fields. It also encourages the building of a versatile and well-rounded personality. You will have knowledge of business ethics, as well as medicine. And through your job, you can leverage that to leave a mark as a professional in this field.
If meetings and in-person interactions are not your forte, medical billing is a promising job. Moreover, there is no interpersonal hindrance and the least supervision from seniors. There are hardly any strict policies. So, you can be your own boss from the comforts of your home or wherever you wish.
You will also come across many influential and amazing personalities from multiple genres. Look at medical billing as a smart choice of an occupation because it allows you to learn and grow. And due to its relevance to various fields, it enables you to move around or relocate pretty easily.
If this field grabs your attention, then show your inclination by contacting us. We have so much more that we’d love to share about this field with you!