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Calling any medical coders
Hello...I have been a lurker but now I have put on my big pants and want to join in on the conversations lol!! I am currently going to school for medical coding and wanted some advice from others. Currently I am a stay at home mom who runs an inhome daycare. I am also getting ready to start the medical coding program at the local community college I attend. I have been trying to get an entry level postion at either the hospitals or doctors offices but have had no luck. I am getting really worried about when I am finished will I be able to get a job. My question is should I continue to find work in this area or should I wait until I am done taking all of my certifications. If any of you are medical coders how did you get your start? Thanks in advance.
Re: Calling any medical coders
I am not a medical coder, but here is an idea : Volunteer!
Maybe if you sign on as a volunteer at a local hospital, they will offer you a paid position when one becomes available.
Agreed. You have to know somebody, really. After doing your homework and confirming there is a need in your area (do this independently, do not just base it on what the school you are going to tells you) then I would really push for entry level or a volunteer spot just to meet people and get your foot in the door.
Also.. If looking for a volunteer spot or entry level job, try a really small private/independent doctor or a brand new doctor. New docs in private practice (twho are not part of a hospital or larger clinic) probably do a lot of this by themselves initially because they can't always afford to pay someone or they can't afford to pay much due to all the other startup expenses. Then as they grow they need more help. Maybe you can start as a volunteer, receptionist, jack of all trades, etc. then as you go to school maybe you can move up.
Network in your area, look at smaller clinics who have surplus work they want to outsource and look up billing and coding forums for more helps. I've heard of CareerStep's medical coding and billing program, but an associate's degree from a community college works great too. Will your college help with placements?
http://www.careerstep.com/medical-coding-billing