A medical billing specialist maintains patient records, records body functions and vital signs, and tracks test results. They use special codes to communicate with insurance companies and work in an office away from patients. The job requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently. Income varies based on location, experience, and facility size. Schooling can be completed online.
A medical billing specialist is responsible for maintaining medical records for all patients in a doctor’s office or hospital. Doctors and nurses rely on organized individuals to keep patient records in order. A medical billing specialist may also be responsible for recording body functions and vital signs, informing the doctor about illnesses and treatments the patient is receiving, and tracking the results of any tests that have been ordered.
For every patient in a physician’s office or hospital, a complete and detailed record is maintained. This record contains the patient’s full name, social security number, home address, occupation information, insurance information, medical history, and any medical problems, diagnoses, or treatments the patient may be currently experiencing. Efficient and accurate records make a physician’s job easier by making all pertinent information available in one place.
Along with all vital information, special codes are placed in the patient’s chart. The codes represent different medical procedures that have been performed. All medical tests are given a special code known to the doctor and insurance companies. These codes make it much easier to communicate with insurance companies when submitting medical claims.
It is essential that a medical billing specialist is detail oriented, has a great memory and has the ability to recall details without difficulty. A desire to work in the medical field is required, as well as routine work day in and day out. This is not the type of job where responsibilities vary.
A medical billing specialist working in a very large facility, such as a hospital, may be assigned to code and bill patient records in a specific department. A smaller facility, such as a doctor’s office, may require the medical billing specialist to be familiar with working in all areas. This is one of the few professions in healthcare that doesn’t require a lot of direct contact with patients. Primary responsibilities are usually performed in an office, away from patients.
Being comfortable working with computers and technology is essential to being a successful medical billing specialist. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multitask are an important part of this profession. Most medical billing specialists do not work under direct supervision, so being independent and motivated is essential in this line of work.
The income of a medical billing specialist varies based on geographic location, the length of experience she has and the size of the facility. Schooling for this occupation can take place on the college campus or courses can be completed online. Most online courses can be completed over the Internet and have no residency requirements.
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