Find Schools offering Medical Billing & Coding Degree Programs

• Most medical billing clerk jobs require only a high school diploma, but some college experience is attractive to employers.
• There is not expected to be a huge need for medical billing clerks because of the introduction of automated computer systems.
• Medical billing clerks spend most of their time working on a computer and are required to sit for long periods of time.

What does a medical billing clerk do?

Medical billing clerks are responsible for compiling and keeping track of patient invoices and then mailing them out to customers. Most of their time is spent coordinating between patients, doctors and insurance companies, to make sure the right people get paid. Computers and specialized billing software allow many clerks to calculate charges, prepare bills, and mail them out in one step. Computer software also allows bills to be sent electronically. Billing clerks are typically employed in an office environment, although many are allowed to work from home. Because billing clerks use computers on a daily basis, workers may have to sit for extended periods of time and perform repetitive motions.

What is the job outlook for a medical billing clerk?

The need for billing clerks is likely to decrease because computers are increasingly taking over the tasks done by billing clerks. Billing clerks usually advance by taking on more duties in the same occupation, and others choose to move into related fields, such as accounting, human resources, or sales. Turnover in this profession is relatively high because it is considered an entry-level position.

How much money will a medical billing clerk make?

Medical billing clerks usually make hourly wages that average between $10.00/hr to $18.00/hr. Nevertheless, the average yearly salary is $36,000 with a range from $33,000 to $42,000, depending on experience and location. Medical and retirement benefits vary by work place.

How does someone become a medical billing clerk?

Billing clerks need at least a high school diploma, but many employers prefer to hire workers who have completed some college courses, if not a two to four year degree. A number of community and career colleges offer certificate programs in medical billing. Workers with an associate's or bachelor's degree are likely to start at higher salaries and advance more easily than those without degrees. Billing clerks usually receive on-the-job training on top of any schooling they have done. Medical billing clerks should be organized and detail oriented, with the ability to work with numbers.

What are the leading schools offering programs in Medical Billing & Coding?