Absolutely! Medical coders are currently in high demand, both as a result of advancements in healthcare and the ever-increasing need for accurate and efficient medical documentation. These skilled professionals play a vital role in the healthcare industry by translating medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into a universally recognized language. With the continuous growth of the healthcare sector, the demand for medical coders has soared, creating excellent career opportunities for those interested in pursuing this field.

Our partners at AAPC say: “On average, medical records specialists (certified and non-certified) average $55,389 annually according to the 2022 Salary Survey results. Those without certification average $46,321 per year, while certified medical records specialists average $56,290 annually — 17.7 percent more than their non certified colleagues.

Like surveys from past years, the 2023 Medical Coding and Billing Salary Report demonstrates that certification pays. The income for medical records specialists with two AAPC credentials averages $66,198 annually. Those with three or more AAPC credentials earn an average $71,361 per year.”

With your certifications in hand, you have several options! Medical coders can work in many locations, such as hospitals, insurance agencies, or coding firms. Whether you work as a medical biller, billing specialist, patient access manager, reimbursement specialist, coding specialist, coding auditor, or a medical records technician, you will be playing a valuable role in the healthcare industry.

When you step into a career in medical coding, the possibilities are endless! There are a few simple ways you can advance your career. First, you can earn additional credentials (hint: we offer comprehensive certification boot camps made just for you!). Whether you add a few more broad coding credentials to your resume, or decide to pursue a specialty coding certification that gives you a unique niche, tacking a few new letters onto the end of your name is always a great idea. Next, determine your preferred workplace setting. Learn where you thrive in the medical coding world – is it at a coding firm with other coders (another hint: OS2H offers job placements for OS2U grads!)? At a
hospital or physcian’s office? Working at an insurance agency? Advance your career by choosing to work where you love. Lastly, seek professional development opportunities (one more hint: OS2U has a whole practicum devoted to your professional development!). Take the class, attend the conference, and have the conversation. When you are armed with industry knowledge, connections, and experience, you will find yourself growing in your career in no time!

Joining the ranks of medical coders means embarking on an adventure filled with growth and learning. Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect:

1) In-Depth Training: At OS2U, we will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field. Our comprehensive curriculum covers medical terminology, anatomy, coding systems, and industry guidelines. You’ll learn to navigate coding manuals, use software tools, and become proficient in code sets.

2) Earn Certifications: We will prepare you to sit for (and pass!) coding certification exams. These certifications allow you to prove commitment and show your knowledge of the medical coding field.

3) Continuous Learning: The medical coding field is a lifelong journey of growth and development. As healthcare evolves, so do coding practices. Even after you are in a job, staying up-to-date with industry changes and participating in professional development activities is crucial. OS2U provides ongoing support and training opportunities to keep you on the cutting edge of this ever-evolving industry.

4) Stay Connected: Medical coders are integral members of a larger healthcare team. You’ll collaborate with physicians, nurses, administrators, and insurance professionals to ensure accurate coding and seamless communication. And you won’t be without support either – when you are a part of OS2U, you are a member of a far bigger community of coders. Lean into your support system of other students and rely on our expert faculty who offer ongoing mentorship.

As you prepare to dive into this field, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that come with securing a good job as a medical coder. While the demand for skilled professionals is high, competition is fierce and it often takes more than just a certificate to stand out from the crowd. Employers are seeking individuals who possess not only a solid understanding of medical coding principles, but also excellent attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to adapt to evolving regulations. Often, certification courses will teach you how to pass a certification exam, but won’t truly prepare you for day-to-day life as a medical coder. Without real experience, it’s hard to thrive in this role. This is why OS2U offers both comprehensive training and hands-on experience, fully preparing you for an exciting and successful career in medical coding.

Although certifications are not mandatory for entering the field of medical coding, we strongly believe that they offer invaluable benefits for aspiring and current coders. While you can technically become a medical coder without certification, obtaining one will greatly enhance your career prospects and professional growth.

Certifications demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and highlight your dedication to staying current with coding guidelines and industry standards. The comprehensive curriculum covered in certification preparation with OS2U equips you with a solid foundation in coding systems like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS, bolstering your confidence and competence in handling coding tasks given to you by an employer.

Certifications can also open doors to career advancement and higher earning potential. Many employers actively seek certified coders for their teams, and certifications can help position you for specialized coding roles or leadership positions.

While certifications are not required, we highly recommend pursuing them.