Medical Coding

Job Summary:
Medical records technicians who specialize in coding are known as Medical Coders. Medical coders are also known as health information coders or coding specialists. They have to be very computer savvy. Medical coders need to assign codes to patients. They are also required to categorize them under DRG's (diagnosis related groups). DRG is the system through which the hospital is reimbursed by insurance companies or Medicare. They should be well versed with coding software, insurance rules and be up to date with the knowledge of disease processes. Nowadays all records are scrutinized very thoroughly and the need for a medical coder to be meticulous is a necessity.

Qualification:
Medical Coders need to pass the Registered Health Information Technicians examination. A 2-year associate degree program in Medical Coding is required to write this examination.

Salary Range:
Ranges from $20,000 to $50,000.

Prospects:
Job prospects for medical coders are very good. Due to the demand for records in a detailed manner, the need for qualified and experienced coders will be on the rise.