7 Essential Classes Every Medical Coding and Billing School Should Teach

There are many career schools offering medical coding and billing courses. Sometimes the program is referred to as “Medical Billing,” “Medical Billing and Coding” or “Medical Billing/Coding Specialist.” There are many variations of these names, but all these programs should teach the same skills.

The purpose of this article is to inform you on the top 7 classes (or subjects) you should learn in your medical coding and billing program.

These class names are generic here, but it will give you an idea of what you should expect to learn in a medical billing program.

You want to make sure your medical coding program incorporates these subjects into their curriculum to ensure you receive proper training.

1. Medical Insurance and Billing Issues
A strong knowledge of health care plans and understanding strategies for insurance problem solving is vital for careers in medical billing. This class usually will give students hands-on training in processing insurance claims and learning how to obtain and use correct ICD-9 and CPT codes.

2. Medical Billing Documentation and Evaluation
This class introduces students to the process of documenting medical procedures, as well as documenting unlisted procedures. This class will also cover insurance collection strategies, and will teach you the communication skills necessary to help you find and collect on money owed.

3. Government Health Care Programs & Billing Methods
A professional medical biller needs to have a comprehensive understanding of preparing insurance claims to government programs like Medicare, Medicade, and TRICARE.

4. Medical Insurance Claim Form - CMS-1500
Any medical billing student needs to gain experience completing various types of health care claim forms. It can seem like a complicated process, but a quality medical billing school should teach you the basics to compete these forms correctly.

5. Ethical and Legal Responsibilities
This will probably not be a class name, but it should be a subject covered within your medical program. You should learn the legal ramifications involved in medical billing practices, and learn how to avoid common medical billing mistakes that can lead to problems.

6. Medical Terminology
A class in medical terminology is extremely important to the medical billing profession. Medical terminology can give you a handle on discussing billing issues more confidently, and give you a better understanding of the medical conditions you will code.

7. Internship/Practicum Program
Depending on the medical billing program, you might find the school offers an internship (some campuses refer to this as an externship) or a practicum. Both of these are ways for students to practice their skills in a real-world environment. An internship is always recommended because it might lead to a job offer or at least a job recommendation.

Bring this list with you the next time you visit a medical coding and billing school. You can use it as a checklist to make sure you’ll be receiving proper education.

Please remember that this class list will not necessarily reflect the exact class names in your area. This is merely a guide for you to use when comparing medical coding schools. You want to make sure these subjects are taught.

http://everestcollege.wordpress.com/2007/01/24/7-essential-classes-every-medical-coding-and-billing-school-should-teach/

At Home Medical Billing Courses - A Road Map to Success in Medical Billing

Having a successful career in Medical Billing is possible with Allied’s Medical Billing Specialist Package. It does, however, take time, effort, the right training, and certifications. As a medical Biller, you need skills that will carry you throughout your career. Skills such as knowing medical terminology, medical report writing, and being proficient in Medical Billing will help you advance your career quickly and reach your ultimate career goals.

Below is Allied's at home Medical Billing course Road Map to Medical Billing Success. It's a guide designed to point your career in the right direction and help you achieve your career goals quicker. Use it to navigate your career down the right path.

1st Step - Learn and Develop Your Billing Skills

Medical Billing is an exciting career that is currently on the rise. Medical offices are in dire need of men and women who know how to properly bill patients and insurance companies. However, they are looking specifically for professionals who have been properly trained and possess the proper Medical Billing skills.

At home Medical Billing courses are the most convenient way to train to become a medical Biller. Allied's Medical Billing Package is a comprehensive at home two course package that will teach you the skills and techniques you need to effectively work as a medical biller.

2nd Step: Learn Medical Billing Software

As a direct result of the aging population and the rise in office technology, administrative duties in medical offices are becoming more technologically involved.

If you’re looking to find an administrative job in the health care industry, you’ll need to have capable computer skills and be proficient in the latest medical billing software.

3rd Step: Get your CMBS Certification

An important part of becoming a successful medical Biller is having the necessary Medical Billing Certification. The Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS) certification is a valuable certification to have as a medical Biller. It is not mandatory to have this certification to work as a medical Biller; however, it can increase your chances of employment.

For more information on how to get your CMBS certification, contact an Allied representative at 888-822-2923.

Final Step: Start Your Career / Start a Home-Based Business

Once you've completed all the necessary training, obtained a few years of in-office/field experience, and acquired the appropriate certifications, you'll be recognized as a professional, certified medical Biller. You will also have the option to start your own home-based business. Starting a at home Medical Billing business can be a lucrative career move; however you do need the right education, experience, and certifications to make it succeed. Before you commit to a home-based business, make sure you've reached every step mentioned in The Allied Road Map to Success in Medical Billing. It's a good way to ensure the success.


http://www.medicalbillingcourses.com/roadMap.html

Medical Billing and Coding Course Now Offered by Gatlin Education Services

Gatlin Education Services announced today that a new course focusing specifically on medical billing and coding is available for January 2007. The 240-hour course will be offered solely through Gatlin's partnership with major colleges and universities.

Medical billing and coding was a component of the administrative medical specialist course. The new course has removed the administration sections and will utilize multimedia and interactive elements to help students prepare for the CCA national certification exam.

"We are always listening to the students so that we can provide them the most relevant content," said Sarah Karr, vice president of academic affairs for Gatlin Education Services. "Overwhelmingly, students wanted a course that focused more on billing and coding and less on administration."

Upon completion, students will be able to register patient information, perform insurance verification, pre-authorization and referrals, code and bill insurance claims and perform collection activities.

"Skilled medical billing and coding technicians are in high demand since there is a lack of both formal training programs and sufficient resources to provide on-the-job training for coders" said Stephen Gatlin, founder of Fort Worth-based Gatlin Education Services. "Demand continues to grow as health insurance companies, regulators, courts and patients increasingly scrutinize medical tests, treatments and procedures. Federal legislation requiring use of electronic patient records will ensure that anyone with billing and coding skills is irresistible to perspective health care employers."

Students who wish to study administration along with medical billing and coding may take the Administrative Medical Specialist with Medical Billing and Coding course, also available through Gatlin's educational partners. The 300-hour course will also prepare students for a position as a medical receptionist or front desk position.

Established in 1989 by Stephen Gatlin, Gatlin Education Services is the largest provider of Web-based, instructor-supported training to community colleges and universities. Gatlin's courses are open enrollment, allowing interested students to start their desired training immediately. Gatlin's online career training courses are designed to provide the skills necessary to acquire professional caliber positions for many in-demand occupations.



http://www.trainingpressreleases.com/newsstory.asp?NewsID=2543

Medical Career Training: Adult Education for a Career in the Medical Professions

If you would like to pursue a career in the medical field, there are a number of paths you can pursue that do not involve the time or money that it would cost to attend medical school. Medical training programs are offered at community colleges and trade and vocational schools, and some specialties can even be studied online.

Interested in a career in medicine, but you don't have the time or finances to consider medical school? That's okay, there are many careers in the medical field you can prepare for with less commitment of time and resources.

Career Training for the Medical Transcriptionist

One such career you can prepare for will let you work in the medical field - out of your own home! Yes, you can study (also at home online if you choose) to be a medical transcriptionist, listening to recorded notes made by doctors and nurses and typing them up in the form of medical reports, correspondence, or other necessary written material. The 2005 Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.BLS.gov) reports that demand for medical transcriptionists will grow pretty quickly (18%-26%) through the year 2014, as healthcare becomes our fastest-growing industry.

Career Training for the Physician's Assistant

The boom in the healthcare industry will also create increased need for physician's assistants, with the projected demand according to the 2005 Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.BLS.gov) expected to increase by more than 27% through 2014. Physician's assistants (PAs) receive 2 years of training at colleges, medical schools, community colleges, in hospitals, or in the military. In order to receive certification they must then pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

Training for Nurses (LPN and RN)

A licensed practical nurse (LPN) need only complete a practical nursing training program offered at a community college or trade school and then pass an exam called the NCLEX-PN. A registered nurse (RN) will need to obtain an associate's degree in nursing through a community college or hospital training program and then pass the NCLEX-RN. If desired, a bachelor's in nursing (BSN) may be earned so the aspiring RN may have even more career flexibility and advancement opportunities. There is even a master's degree in nursing for nurses wishing to rise to the top of their profession.

Training for Careers in Alternative Medicine

If you are interested in some of the alternative medical treatments gaining increased popularity and respect these days, you may wish to check into courses and certification programs offered in disciplines such as homeopathy, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, chiropractic medicine, and herbal healing.

http://education-portal.com/articles/Medical_Career_Training%3A_Adult_Education_for_a_Career_in_the_Medical_Professions.html

Medical Billing and Coding Certificate: Program Overview

A Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program teaches entry-level skills essential for employment in a variety of medical offices. It usually takes three months to complete the certificate program. Obtaining a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate enables students to gain work as a medical biller or coder and take on responsibilities required to work in hospitals, medical clinics, physician's offices, and insurance companies.

What is a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate?

Definition of the Certificate:

A Certificate Program in Medical Billing and Coding is intended to train individuals for a career in healthcare. The program offers the theory, practical knowledge and skill development essential for employment in the healthcare field as a medical billing and coding professional.

Required Courses:

Some of the more general courses mandatory in a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program include:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II

• Medical Terminology

• Medical Insurance

• Legal & Ethical Issues & Health Professions

• Information Literacy & Report Writing

Skills Obtained:

After obtaining a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate students will have an overview of Current Procedural Terminology (CPT ) and an overview of International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Medical billing students will also have computerized medical billing and hospital billing knowledge, along with worker's comp guidelines and necessary preparation to start a medical billing service.

Reasons for Earning this Degree:

According to Medical Billing and Coding, www.medicalandcoding.net, medical billing is the practice of submitting claims to insurance companies or the United States government, to receive payment for services provided to the patient by a medical doctor or other licensed healthcare provider. Medical billing and coding as a career provides challenges, rewarding experiences and good pay. Medical billers and coders are important jobs that are in high demand.

Career Related Information

Economic Outlook and Growth of the Industry:

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, due to the complicated nature of medical billing, strong growth in medical billing and coding will generate more jobs in the healthcare industry. Employment growth will occur in the expanding healthcare industries, but will be limited to hospitals and physicians' offices.

Salary Information:

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, www.bls.gov.oco, median hourly earnings of medical billing and coding professionals are typically between $10.76 and $15.86, with the lowest percent earning $9.12 and the highest percent earning more than $18.88 per hour.

Recommended Schools for Users Who Read Medical Billing and Coding Certificate: Program Overview: Selected Search Criteria:

• Subject Category: Medical and Health Professions
• Subject Subcategory: Medical Administrative Services
• Specific Program: Medical Insurance Billing and Coding

http://education-portal.com/articles/Medical_Billing_and_Coding_Certificate%3A_Program_Overview.html

Medical Billing - Legitimate Work at Home Opportunity?

While there are many legitimate work at home Internet business possibilities and many reputable and honest work at home Internet business vendors, there are also some fraudulent schemes. You must choose carefully. The most prominent of these fraudulent schemes is for medical billing. Touted as one of the best work at home Internet business ideas, these schemers are just out for your money. The idea is to charge an upfront fee to get you started, and then leave you to fend for yourself in an industry where you have little chance of succeeding. Other fraudulent business opportunity schemes such as envelope stuffing and product assembly take your money and then reject your work – and thus its payment – as substandard.

Advertisements touting these prepackaged medical billing centers show up on TV, on the Web and in newspapers. Major metro newspapers, probably the most savvy about these schemes, generally do not accept the ads. Responding to the ad for the medical billing work at home Internet business opportunity will result in your receiving a phone call, with a pitch about the burgeoning health care system crisis. Typically the hawker will tell you that claims are piling up and waiting to be processed. The result, according to the person on the phone, is to process these claims electronically, which is not being done often or expansively. This, the pitch goes, is what makes it a lucrative work at home Internet business for you.

The promise is that you’ll make a lot of money as doctors outsource their billing to you. You can, they say, work in accounts receivable, insurance claims and physician or dentist practice management. Included in the presentation is the assurance that not only do you not need experience, but that their sales staff will kick start your work at home Internet business by putting you together with health care clients. The reality is that if you have any chance at all to make any money – or even get your initial investment back – you’re going to have to find your own clients.

The investment for this alleged lucrative work at home Internet business is not small – typically $2500-$9000. Prior to your commitment you will be mailed a business brochure, the application and license agreement (contract), document of disclosure, diskette samples, references and testimonials and videocassettes. Your investment is supposed to result in training, software and technical support. The references are commonly shills – the name for people that a company hires to provide favorable but dishonest testimonials.

The reality is that medical billing is seldom a lucrative work at home Internet business. Few people who purchase these programs are able to find enough clients to even recoup their investment much less make a living at it. It’s not that medical billing isn’t a legitimate business. It’s that the competition is fierce and the market is saturated. So be warned!


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Medical Practice Software Simplifies the EMR Process

The Electronic Medical Record, or EMR, has blossomed as the 21st century's medical record management model. EMR databases consolidate and organize important medical records electronically, including the electronic medical claim. Medical practices have been able to effectively and quickly manage the electronic medical record, greatly benefiting not only the practice but also the client.

Almost any EMR system has been able to assist medical practices to reach a higher level of organization, but new medical practice software takes a practice even further. Though an EMR consolidates medical records, the medical records are still on separate databases, depending on the categories the EMR belongs to. Billing records, medical histories, etc., are all located on different databases, requiring multiple logins and often heavy and expensive security and IT infrastructure. Medical software streamlines the costs, both economic and time.

The market has picked up on the need for medical practice software that simplifies the EMR process. That is why finding the right medical practice software can be so challenging. On any given day, in any given search engine, the keyword "medical practice software" will yield millions to hundreds of millions of indexed pages. Characteristics of good medical practice software include internet access, medical billing PDA, third party billing, digital imaging, reports, and tracking. In addition to these characteristics, medical practices can look forward to cutting overhead costs, including IT infrastructure and additional security costs.

Every medical practice knows that finding a competitive edge also requires simplicity. Medical practices probably do not have extra time to invest in training themselves on new medical software. Not only should it be simple to learn but also simple to install and simple to use.

Another feature used in medical practice software is accessibility. Medical practice software has enabled access to the cpt code, HCFA 1500, icd.9 codes, SOAP notes, and even HIPAA consultants.

Though searching out the right medical practice software to simplify your EMR needs will require you to do your homework, searching is probably the hardest part. In other words, medical practice software was meant to work for you. The information and tips provided in this article and its accompanying resources are meant to simplify the searching process too. Faced-paced business, especially medical practice business, doesn't stop and wait for everyone to catch up, nor do patients stop coming. The Boy Scout motto is "Be Prepared," and with medical practice software, you will be.

A supportable, useable, flexible, manageable, and affordable way to streamline the demands of a medical practice EMR is to find medical practice software capable of supporting your practice's information databases and streamlining their management to one secured login. Not only can it support your EMR's but also you, because medical practice software provides access to service consultant and medical codes. It also allows you to access your EMR databases off-site.

Managing the demands of an EMR system can be time consuming and tedious. An EMR does not have to take so much of your time and money if it is effectively managed by a good medical practice software system that works for your business.

Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on business, technology, and health. Information on Medical Practice Software is available at AdvancedMD.com.

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An Explanation of Medical Billing Software Prices

Medical billing software prices can vary widely depending on the size and scope of your practice and the software package you choose. Medical billing software is offered in many forms to the discerning customer. Innovations in the technology of medical billing software have created a new benchmark of digital accuracy. There are many packages offered, such as software with equipment lease, software lease via the Internet, or the software along with installation and training. When you are evaluating the needs of your practice, consider the factors that will affect the cost of your medical billing software such as the number of users, the number of patients, amount of use, and amount of data storage.

Many software packages will not fill all the diverse needs of your practice, so make sure you identify vendors who are familiar with health care management solutions and who will work with your practice to sustain your advantage in the business. When investigating prices for medical billing software it is a good idea to ask how and for what purpose the system was designed, and the cost for all the data to be secure, backed-up and protected on servers that are compliant with the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996). Also find out what the total price will be including ongoing costs, like upgrades, maintenance and training.

Other significant factors that will affect the price of medical billing software are the price of user licenses, and the costs involved with customization to fit your medical practice. Check to see if you can configure the software without assistance, and whether a first time user can quickly learn the program. If the answer is yes to these questions, you will save a bundle on training your staff. Selected vendors will allow you to create your own medical software quote by asking a series of questions that will identify your precise needs. Keep an eye out for companies who provide free updates to ensure continued HIPAA compliance.

There are medical billing software options out there that require a minimal provider investment, such as the web-based solution that allows the medical billing provider to manage and maintain all of your data and hardware within a totally secure remote environment. You could have all of the advantages of great medical billing software, including exclusive access to patient information, at sharply reduced costs. Some points of sale to look out for are: no hardware or software to buy, no need for installation, and no upgrade costs. Carefully evaluate the needs of your medical practice to see if this easy and popular option is right for your practice.

Finding a comprehensive selection of medical billing software prices can be a simple task if you are certain from the outset of your medical practice needs, and the size and flexibility of your budget. Medical billing software does not have to be costly to work efficiently. Once an expensive bundle of complicated interfaces filled with cumbersome textual fragments, today's electronic medical billing suites are reasonably priced, straightforward and intuitive.

Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

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Medical Billing Software: An Overview

Medical billing software, also referred to as electronic medical billing software, is now one of the most important components of a successful medical practice. Healthcare professionals from many different specialties can benefit from some level of medical billing software. Innovations in the field of medical billing software have created a new standard of digital precision. Many software packages in general can now fill all the needs of your practice; you can easily locate vendors who know about health care management solutions and will work with your practice to maintain your lead in the business.

When investigating possibilities for your billing software, ask questions such as how and for whom the system was designed, and whether the data will be safe and secure on backed-up, protected, HIPAA-compliant servers accessible only to authorized persons. ("HIPAA" is the acronym for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.) Then you can ask for the total price (including ongoing costs like software upgrades) of the entire software package. Some vendors will allow you to build your own medical billing software quote by providing you with a series of questions that will identify your essential needs. Moreover, look for companies who offer free updates to ensure continued efficiency and HIPAA compliance.

To figure out your software requirements, you can either assess them for yourself if you have excellent computer and software knowledge, or contact one of the many medical practice software providers who can assist you in comparing features, prices, and services. There are many companies that will do this free of charge.

One popular option that some electronic medical billing software experts will recommend is to use web-based software. These are companies that maintain practice management programs, electronic medical records, and various software programs on remote computers. All of your data is web-based and accessible through the Internet. These companies are commonly referred to as application service providers (ASPs). All you need to use an ASP is an ordinary computer and a broadband Internet connection. Most packages include software support, security, database management and training. This eliminates the burden of maintaining network servers, backup tapes, upgrades or modems. Additionally, search for software providers (web-based or otherwise) who will consistently upgrade their products in a timely manner, anticipate future developments, and translate those advances into system features.

Because dynamic, scalable software is now readily available to the modern medical establishment, even the most humble doctor's office can install a fluid software system that everybody can use. Further, as the demand for electronic medical billing software has blossomed, so have the available choices. Medical billing software is just one of the many options now available that make operating a medical practice easier than ever before.

Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

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An Explanation of Medical Billing Software

Medical billing is an increasingly popular office or home-based small business opportunity that involves using skills and knowledge in medical terminology, insurance claims, and customer service to ensure that physicians and clinics receive payment from patients and insurance companies.

Whether working from home based small-businesses or at large hospitals, every medical biller utilizes medical billing software. Though still referred to as medical billing software, today's electronic medical billing software is also more accurately called medical practice management software and covers many functions. Up-to-date medical billing software will generate a variety of reports based on data, manage appointments, as well as collect, transmit, and track billing information and payments. Current medical billing software will also make sure that records are kept in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act security standards. When deciding on software to buy, compliance with this act is an important consideration and will help you steer clear of some of the software scam artists out there.

When considering software for a medical billing business, here are some things to ask yourself or potential suppliers:

� Does the software include the ability to manage several different accounts?
� Can the software handle multiple doctors or multiple offices?
� Does the software recognize current procedure and diagnosis codes and it is updatable for the future (very important!)

Many vendors will allow a trial use of their program to see if it fits your needs. You will also be able to address whether the supplier answers questions in a timely fashion and if the are helpful in a trouble-shooting situation. Remember that a good medical billing software suite will cost at least $500 so don't be fooled by people trying to sell $50 products that don't even function.

Though electronic billing is still mainstream, there is a movement towards online billing where a subscription is setup on the web allowing a paperless entry of patient information, claims, and more. This service will cost more than $200 per month so you have to research and weigh the benefits of a one time investment for electronic medical billing software that is local or the online web-based software that can be used from any web-connected computer or device.

Medical Billing Info provides comprehensive information about medical billing software, services, jobs and companies. Medical Billing Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Software Web.

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How to Get Free Medical Billing Software

Free medical billing software providers are out there waiting to secure your business. Many software companies, if you qualify, will allow you to download their free demo software in hopes you will eventually add on more expensive options. Still other medical billing software providers will offer to mail out free demo CDs and training tapes. Another important feature that is often available at no cost to you is the care of all software upgrades, backups, data storage, and server maintenance eliminating expensive IT support and pricey upgrades.

One great additional benefit to obtaining free medical billing software is that many companies will help you to evaluate your needs in effort to ensure your future business. Investigating such possibilities is a worthy venture as there is so much competition and there are many new medical billing software services arising every day both locally, in the form of small start-up companies, and the on Internet.

Free services for medical billing abound. Since most companies who offer free medical billing software do not customize their complimentary products you may find that you have to piece together various services through the use of different companies and providers. Don't be discouraged all you need to get there are a group of decent software packages that track claims management, patient billing, insurance, and scheduling.

And don't forget to check and make certain that the software you choose is HIPAA ready and includes all finalized aspects of HIPAA to guarantee full compliance with HIPAA standards as they relate to the electronic storage and transfer of protected health information. Further consider carefully how the free medical billing software you acquire and/or assemble will eventually create a seamless workspace in which everything from electronic medical records to healthcare forms is integrated. Luckily you will probably be able to configure all the free medical billing software you get without assistance, quickly and easily so check it out, it might be a great solution for your medical practice.

Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

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User Friendly Medical Billing Software

Medical billing software is easier to use today than ever before. Innovations in the technology of medical billing software have created a new touchstone of digital accuracy. Once a complicated text-based interface filled with awkward textual fragments, today's electronic medical billing suites are slick, undemanding, and intuitive, finally generating documents your patients can easily understand.

No more complicated invoices in the mail. Now easy medical billing software offers complete billing summaries. All you need to get there is the aid of a medical billing program that includes software that tracks claims management, patient billing, insurance, and scheduling in a single package. Easy medical billing software can create a seamless workspace in which everything from electronic medical records to healthcare forms is integrated and simple to use. Now you can find opportunities that allow you to effortlessly configure software yourself. Some other important features worth noting are; easy access to the latest forms and guidelines, a step-by-step process that will prompt you through the programs many functions, and an automatic bill printing feature, that will reliably generate the correct documents.

Many easy medical billing software packages are now designed like the paper scheduling and hard copy claims processing with which you are familiar. This software model makes learning fast and easy, even for first-time users. When investigating the different possibilities of medical billing software, it is a good idea to verify that the system was designed for the safe and secure back up of data and is HIPAA compliant, and whether the software is easy enough for a computer novice and will, at the same time, meet the needs of a busy medical practice.

Easy medical billing software has now evolved to a place where any staff member of your practice can use it. The simpler programs are usually available in most places where medical billing software is sold. When your office works efficiently, it always translates into better care for your patients. So get on board with the right easy medical billing program and see how simple that paperwork can be.

Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

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Compliance and HIPAA Seminar Online

This is a Computer Slide Show Presentation

Agenda:

* HIPAA Compliance

o Title I &II - Electronic Standards

o Security &Electronic Signature Standards

o National Provider ID (NPI)

o Unique Identifiers

o Electronic Transaction Standards

o EDI Healthcare Transactions

* HIPAA Privacy Rule

o Privacy v. Security

o About the Privacy Rule

o Viloations &Accountability

o Limitations &Patient Rights

o Requirements for Providers

o Covered Entities

o Business Associates

o Contracts between BA &Covered Entities

o Violations

* OIG Guidelines

o Benefits of a Compliance Program

o Key Compliance Guideline Elements

o Risk Assessment

o Dealing With Credit Balances

o Integrity of Provider Data

o Record Retention

o Records Obtained From Providers

o Proper Documentation

o Auditing

o Violations and Investigations

o Obligations Regarding Misconduct

o Corrective Actions

* Implementation of a Compliance Program

* The False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3729-3733)

* Medicare Fraud and Abuse

* Learn how federal agencies are now aggressively funded to pursue health care fraud. Find out how to protect your billing company

* Introduction to AMBA's Certification Exam and Study Materials




http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/hipaaseminar.htm

Chiropractic 101 Online Billing Course

The purpose of this course is to educate you about chiropractic billing.

The course is divided into five sections:

1) History and Scope of Chiropractic
2) New Patient Office Visit
3) Chiropractic Insurance
4) Building A Claim
5) Chiropractic Terminology and Abbreviations

It is our intention to help create a better relationship between the Chiropractor, Staff, and the Insurance Carrier.

Doctors of Chiropractic spend many years becoming educated. They rightfully deserve the maximum pay for the services they perform. Therefore, it is important that their claim rejection rate is at a minimum, and their billing is done flawlessly. Each Chiropractic office is unique and we have covered basic billing principles that relate to each scope of practice.

Chiropractic Offices have various forms. We have made these forms available in PDF format for viewing and printing. After viewing the forms, you may want to edit or change your own forms similarly.

This course was developed for all Billing Services, and those that bill for Chiropractors. It is intended for Chiropractic Assistants, Chiropractic Office Managers, Physical Therapists, for the patient who wants to learn, or better understand Chiropractic insurance benefits, and for Doctors of Chiropractic.

Read and study the material one section at a time. The course is designed with a pre-test for each section, and a final examination. The test scores are not recorded until you take the final exam. You must correctly answer 85% of the questions to achieve a passing score. If you do not achieve a passing score, you may retake the test.


Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.



http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/chirocourse.htm

Intermediate CPT-4 Online Coding Course

This course will cover intermediate CPT-4 coding. It is in no way a complete Coding Course and should not be taken as such. The course has ten sections and uses the American Medical Association's Current Procedural Terminology manual. This course is designed to follow up our Introduction to CPT-4 Online Coding Course.

The course will cover the following sections:

E/M Coding
Surgery
Musculoskeletal
Respiratory
Cardiovascular
Medicine
Radiology
Female Genital, Maternity Care, & Delivery
Urinary, Male Genital, Intersex, Digestive, Mediastinum & Diaphragm
Heme & Lymph, Endocrine, Nervous, Eye & Auditory

This course can only be accessed online using an internet connection.

You will need the 2007 version of the CPT-4 Code Book to complete this course.

Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.

Course is approved for 6 CEUs through AMBA.



http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/intermediatecpt.htm

Introductory CPT-4 Online Coding Course

This course will cover the basics of CPT-4 coding. The course has eight sections and uses the American Medical Association's Current Procedural Terminology manual.

The Eight Sections Include

CPT Coding
Modifiers
E & M Codes
Anesthesia Code
Surgery Codes
Radiology & Pathology Codes
Medicine Codes
HCPCS Codes

This course is pre-approved for 6 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by the American Medical Billing Association.

You will need the 2007 version of the CPT-4 Code Book to complete this course

Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.


http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/cptcourse.htm

Introductory ICD-9-CM Online Coding Course

This online course will cover the basics of ICD-9-CM coding. It is not an advanced course, but will provide you with the basics of diagnosis coding along with practice exercises, section tests and a final exam. The course has twelve sections and uses the International Classifications of Diseases, Volume 9, Clinical Modification (ICD-9) manual, Volumes 1 & 2. The answers to all coding exercises and section tests will be from the 2007 edition of the ICD-9-CM Coding Manual. You will need the most recent version of the ICD-9-CM Code Book to complete this course.

Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.



http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/icdcourse.htm

Business Continuity Planning & Risk Management Online Course

This course is designed to provide you with crucial information that will allow you to identify, analyze, plan and control risks to your business.

Throughout the course, you will be provided with opportunities to test your knowledge. You will receive instant feedback that will enhance your learning experience and will help you retain more knowledge. Also throughout this course, you will find links to additional information about that particular topic.

This course has five sections:

1. Defining Risk Management
2. Five Phases of Risk Management
3. Risk Management Plan
4. A Sample Plan
5. Risk Management Terminology
6. Risk Management Exam

After defining risk management in objective one, objective two and three gives you an in-depth look at risk management, identifying, analyzing, planning, tracking, and controlling your risk management plan. Objective four is a walk through with sample worksheets. Objective five identifies terms to aid in your learning. Objective six is an exam.

Upon completion of the last section, you will have the opportunity to take the final exam covering all of the sections you have completed. When you've completed the final exam, you will have received knowledge and planning assistance regarding risks and controlling and managing those risks.

Access to this course is set for 90 days. There are no required books or documents to utilize this course.

Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.



http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/businesscontinuity.htm

Basic Physical Therapy Online Billing Course

The purpose of this course is to inform you of the most current and up-to-date information regarding physical therapy billing.

The course is divided into six sections:

1) Scope of Physical Therapy
3) The Case Study
3) Coding
4) Insurance
5) Building A Claim
6) Terminology and Abbreviations

It is our intention to help create a better relationship between the physical therapist, patient, staff, and the insurance carrier to allow for better management and collection of money.

Physical therapy offices have various forms. We have made these forms available in PDF format for viewing and printing. After viewing the forms, you may want to edit or change your own forms similarly.

This course was developed for all Billing Services, and those that bill for Physical Therapists. It is intended for Physical Therapy Assistants, physical therapy students, Office Managers, for the patient who wants to learn, or better understand insurance benefits, and for Physical Therapists.

Average Course Completion Time is 30-40 hours.



http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/ptcourse.htm

Medical Billing Course

Our Online Medical Billing Course is designed to educate the biller on starting and running a medical billing business. The course has 26 main objectives. It begins with basics such as getting started, marketing, and working with providers. As you progress, you will learn more detailed and specific information on the day to day intricacies of a medical billing business.

Throughout the course, you will answer questions that provide instant feedback to enhance your learning experience. Upon completion of the course, you will have obtained profound and in-depth concepts and information about the medical billing industry.

At the end of the course, you will be given an exam designed to test your knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform various tasks associated with the medical billing industry.

This course provides billers with skills, training and information needed to operate a successful medical billing business.

Below is a partial list of topics covered in our Course

Things to do First
Getting Started
Managing Your Time
Learn the Lingo
Acronyms and Terms
Medical Coding
Clearinghouses
Collections
How Doctors Think and Act
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fees are Determined
Getting Paid for your Services
CMS 1500 Claim Form
Insurance Basics
The Role of Insurance Carriers
Medicare Basics
Managed Care Terms
Marketing to Providers
Scripts
Practice Management
Providers You Can Work For
Rejections and Appeals
Services You Can Offer
Compliance Guidelines
Fraud and Abuse
Contracts and Forms

Average Course Completion Time is 70-80 hours.

The topics listed above are covered in our Online Course but are not representative of all comprehensive subject matter covered. To learn more about this course, feel free to speak with an Association Representative at (580) 622-2624.

http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/mbcourse.htm

Doctor's Office Billing Online Course

This course is designed to provide you with crucial information that will allow you to become more proficient at collecting money for your office. There are 16 sections. The course begins with basics and progresses into real issues that affect your practice income.

Throughout the course, you will be provided with opportunities to Test Your Knowledge. You will receive instant feedback that will enhance your learning experience and will help you retain more knowledge. Also throughout the course, you will find links that can be clicked on for additional information on a particular topic. After you complete a section, you will be given a section test. As you progress through the course, you will learn about the many intricacies of office billing and practice management.

Upon completion of the last section, you will have the opportunity to take the final exam covering all of the sections you have completed. When you've completed the final exam, you will have received in-depth knowledge of the medical billing process and you will have learned many important procedures and policies you can implement in your office that will help you collect more money.


http://www.medicalbillingcourseonline.com/officecourse.htm

Billing Software, Free and Open this Time

Billing is one important area of all small and big businesses. Billing software market is crowded that choice of one becomes so difficult for a start up business owner. The question is will billing software survives the flood of software suits or packages offered by small and big software developing companies.

It should. The problem open software community today faces is the lack of skills or interest to learn the basics of programming and working of programs.

People also seek comfort zones all the time. We all live in an age of instant gratification and we are hardly programmed to wait or try hard to get something. This is the general trend and they will go for easily available packaged solutions, instead of trying to learn what it is about the working behind the things they see.

Needless to say a billing cum accounting system will, to a great extent take the load of learning accounting from your shoulders. With Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) the modern mantra, it is quite understandable if a few companies have taken the initiative to make major inroads into the field of free open source billing software.

It is necessary for the user to have a basic coding and programming knowledge to tweak the pieces of software to a workable suite. Then again the attempts in that direction should be recognized.

When introducing an open-source billing software, it is sure to be met with much skepticism and prejudices. No open source software is an exception. The whole hearted attempts from skilful people keep the trend alive. This project has been the hot favorite at SourceForge.net for a few months now.

A recent addition to free software, specifically billing software is JBilling, located at http://www.jbilling.com. The open source software works with all major operating systems and supports My SQL, Postgre SQL and Hypersonic. It runs on JBOSS. It is thus a 100% free open source billing system that supports recurring billing, automatic payment processing using credit cards etc. It also handles web-based interface directly with end customers.

There are also different advantages of this specific billing software. Most of the processes are automated. Though it is not a new thing in open source world, business persons appreciate automatic invoicing, billing, payment processing, etc. What more? JBilling v 1.0.4 also accepts online payment via credit card.

The software thus easily becomes an alternative to proprietary billing systems.


About the Author

To download and learn more about jBilling Free Open Source Billing Software, visit http://www.jbilling.com.

Open Source Billing System

Open source billing systems are finding new way out through the small business firms everywhere.

This new billing software satisfies many small businessmen. People who come up with new businesses are possible to make mistakes that will cost them a fine amount. Open Source billing system enables in proper accounting and reports you accordingly. A helping hand for the clients to come up from meddles of business.

Open source billing software helps anyone to make out a clear business plan too. All these services designs a layout for the new business programming services. Ticketing, account administration, rating, reporting, multi currencies support management, balance tracking, etc are performed. Freelance developers, small business firms, contract employers and other executives are made accessible to this facility. Open source billing system has made the system easily accessible and lessens the time for financial dealings.

Open source billing services with its efficient management in dealing with the business matters makes the smooth running of the system. A rapid progress in the company’s structural and functional matters will result by this. Both businesspersons and employees can access open source billing system without depending on any client software. Installation assistance, support contracts, customs developments are a part of it. Open source billing system works on Linux, Windows, MySQL and more.

jbilling is one of the free open source billing systems that assist in automated payment system, processing of credit cards etc. jbilling targets on web based billing facilities that runs on different data bases- Java, MySQL, PostgreSQL, Hypersonic and Oracle. Hence these Open source billing system are adding a lot more in business world it makes the clients to come forth without any hesitation.


About the Author

To download and learn more about jBilling Free Open Source Billing Software, visit http://www.jbilling.com.

3 Reasons Why Medical Billing Software is Leading the Way

Since technology changes so quickly, it is hard to begin by saying “in the old days . . . ,” but that seems to fit the best. In the old days, medical companies, service providers, and almost any other business which used automated billing enjoyed the convenience of logging on to a database (or several, they the company had multiple offices) and processing their billing statements. This “old way” required IT and servers, and is actually still the current way for most businesses.
Somewhere along the way, medical billing software was developed to process billing without logging on to multiple databases, without having IT, and without crowding the server. This medical billing software is not only cutting edge, but it is also a miracle because it comes without a large set-up and usage expense. Soon, all companies will be marching to the beat of the new medical billing software drummer.

Let’s explore the differences between the “old way” and the new by looking at the 3 reasons why medical billing software is leading the way in corporate software.

Connection

The “old way” was convenient for its time, but that time may soon be gone. It consisted of a different database for each office, which meant that if your business had 3 offices, you would have had to log on to 3 different databases to process your billing statements and close at the end of each day.

Using only a broadband connection, “the new” way connects you to an unlimited number of databases at once, allowing you to manage all of your accounts with clients, providers, etc., all in one connection.

In addition, with the same technology now available with medical billing software, you can connect to a secure server from anywhere with a broadband internet connection. You can work from home, the hotel, or anywhere else on a secure account that can only be accessed by those whom you authorize.

Capacity

The “old way” was to have separate applications for every function your business needed to perform. For example, records of clients, customers, providers, or patients, would each be kept in separate files in multiple databases. Then, to track appointments and schedules, your business would probably have had to open a whole new application.

Now medical billing software has one system for all of the functions your business needs to perform, not just to process medical billing statements. Log on; track your provider records and schedules, your client records and schedules, and your own financial records and schedules, all in one place.

Security

The question that runs through the minds of every thoughtful business when a new technology that claims to guard so many important and sensitive documents is, “Is this secure software?”
The answer is “yes,” because this advanced medical billing software backs-up, protects, and secures all data on HIPAA-compliant servers, which are accessible only to those whom you authorize.

New medical billing software is also a pioneer in financial security because the software does not require large start-up costs; it is billed the same way it is used: month to month.
Businesses can benefit from the technology medical billing software now has to offer. It has been said that the greatest breakthroughs come at the intersection of two different disciplines. Medical billing software has made a breakthrough in combining business skills with medical practice and providing medical billing software that not only meets medical billing needs but also provides a template for software that any business could benefit from.



http://www.articletrader.com/business/advertising/3-reasons-why-medical-billing-software-is-leading-the-way.html

Medical Billing Software Provides Easy Access to 2005 CPT Code Book

Multiple data bases, multiple servers, superbills, synchronization, multiple logins, reports, backups, workstations. Honestly, there is enough to worry about already in managing medical offices. On top of all of that there are multiple codes to remember and refer to?

Medical billing software services have been developed to streamline the medical billing process, not simply by allowing practices to connect to multiple locations and databases in one place (which is quite a feat in and of itself), but also by creating simplified access to important codes to which medical billing must comply. The 2005 CPT code book, updated CPT codes, ICD.9 codes, and all other codes are accessible in the same location as the rest of the billing information, and they are updated automatically from year to year.

When President George W. Bush visited the Midwest during his reelection campaign, he spoke to medical practitioners in several locations and referred to “preventative medicine.” Effective management of records and compliance to codes has become a type of preventative medicine, protecting both the client or patient and the practice. Accessing codes on a simple medical billing software helps to ensure not only an efficiently run medical office but also a secure billing process.

Developments in medical billing software have come to benefit the medical field immensely. Databases allowed business to electronically manage billing and medical history information. Technology also created an IT infrastructure to manage the information.

More recent developments include HIPAA-compliant servers and removal of expensive IT infrastructure. Medical billing software has also developed color-coded appointment making, automatic reminders, and billing generation.

The developments continued to include SOAP note management and transcriptions. Medical billing software can now manage everything in one location, even information from multiple offices and servers. There has also been increased security on the servers and on backups.

Topping off the developments in medical billing software has been access to real-time updated codes, including CPT, HIPAA, HCFA 1500, and ICD.9. As medical companies continue to develop, adoption of a compatible medical billing software should be a prime consideration. Preventative medicine begins with accurate and effective record management and code compliance. As your practice searches through the medical billing software, it is important to take into consideration the recent developments available in medical billing software.


About the Author

Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on business, technology, and health. Information on 2005 cpt code book or medical billing software is available at AdvancedMD.com.

Looking for a Qualified Medical Billing Specialist

Families, mothers, employers, and medical practices all interact in one way or another with a medical billing specialist. When medical billing is required, a qualified medical billing specialist can help you process your claim quickly and thoroughly. Medical billing specialists work in many different areas. A variety of tasks require a medical billing specialist to be familiar with medical transcription, medical codes, and electronic medical records (EMR).

This article not only explains the types of information a medical billing specialist should be familiar with but also the types of information that families, mothers, employers, and medical practices should be familiar with.

Medical Transcription

http://www.advancedmd.com/features/medical-transcription.asp Medical transcription is the method of transferring medical information, such as diagnosis or interviews, from an audio format to a paper format or an electronic format. SOAP notes are recorded with a transcription machine before it is transferred to an electronic format. It becomes part of an electronic medical record or EMR.

A medical transcription job is often sent to a medical transcription company or processed with a medical transcription program. http://editorials.arrivenet.com/bus/article.php/4915.html Medical transcription articles provide more information on the process of medical transcription as well as electronic medical records.

Medical Codes

Qualified medical billing specialists are also familiar with various medical codes, governing record-keeping, billing, and certification. CPT codes, HIPAA certification, ICD.9 codes, HCFA 1500 formats, etc. are just some of the important standards by which a qualified medical billing specialist performs his or her work. Other diagnosis codes and claim processing codes also play a continual role in medical billing, and a medical billing specialist should be aware of how they function.

Electronic Medical Records

An http://www.advancedmd.com/features/emr.asp EMR, or electronic medical record, is a convenient way to process medical records in today’s business world. Databases are full of EMRs comprised of SOAP notes, billing information, medical history, and other relevant information. Electronic medical records must be carefully managed, backed up, and stored. They must also be kept secure.

Medical Practice Software

http://editorials.arrivenet.com/tec/article.php/4983.html Medical practice software has helped to simplify the medical billing process, allowing a streamlined database of EMRs along with access to medical codes. Medical practices are beginning to adopt this type of software in order to cut their IT costs and set up fees and adopt a month by month cost on a secured system. Information may then be accessed from any computer or PDA by authorized individuals. Medical billing specialists are trained in software programs such as these.



Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on health and medical software. Medical billing specialist information is available at AdvancedMD.com.

Meeting Medicaid Billing Needs with Sensitive Medical Billing Software

Medicaid Billing

Medicaid billing (similar to http://www.advancedmd.com/features/medicare-billing.asp medicare billing)requires medical billing software that is versatile and sensitive enough to work with Medicaid. Medicaid is state subsidization of medical expenses paid on behalf of qualified low-income individuals or families. Though requirements differ in each state, the payment is made directly to the medical practice or service provider.

In establishing medical billing solutions within a medical office, software is generally purchased to manage, track, and control billing information. Medicaid billing is handled differently than most medical billing. Since most medical billing is paid directly by the client or by the client’s insurance company, most medical billing software is set up for traditional billing to the client or the client’s insurance company. But Medicaid billing is paid through state government operations and requires software that is sensitive to Medicaid billing.

Medicaid Billing Need

In 1985, over 30 million Americans were enrolled in Medicaid. In 2003, less than 20 years later, the American population enrolled in Medicaid climbed to over 40 million. Clearly, with technological advances since 1985, medical billing software should be sensitive to the growing need for Medicaid billing allowances.

In understanding the nature of the need for Medicaid billing allowances in medical billing software, it is helpful to understand the Medicaid enrollment trends. Though low-income families may apply for enrollment in Medicaid, these young to middle-aged families do not make up much, if any, of the Medicaid population.

In 1999, over 38 million Americans were enrolled in Medicaid. About 33 million of those enrolled in Medicaid were the elderly, while the other 5 million consisted of disabled individuals. In 2003, the trend remains similar. Of the over 40 million individuals enrolled, over 34 million consisted of the elderly, while slightly fewer than 6 million individuals were disabled.

The point is that, in general, those enrolled in Medicaid (statistically the elderly and disabled) also require more medical care than other low-income families or individuals. That means that if a medical service provider is unable to react to Medicaid billing needs, then that medical service provider will be unable to assist not only the large demographic of Medicaid-enrolled individuals but also many elderly and disabled-two of the most medically-needy demographics.

Benefits of Medicaid Billing Sensitive Software

Millions of Medicaid-enrolled individuals are seeking medical service providers who are able to meet with the Medicaid billing needs of the state government and of Medicaid individuals.

Fortunately, with advances in technology, Medicaid billing sensitive software is available to answer the needs of the increasing Medicaid-enrolled population, many of whom are in regular need of medical attention.



Joe Miller is an author of informational articles and online advertisements on business, technology, and health. Information on Medicaid billing is available at AdvancedMD.com.

Medical Billing Software takes the Stage

Medical Billing Software

The practice is running smoothly, with patients coming in and out with smiles on their faces because of the great service your practice is providing. At the end of the day, you review the office secretary’s billing records and realize you are behind, again.

Running a successful practice depends upon the efficiency of the billing. Unfortunately many practices still must deal with a variety of different databases containing different sets of information. The patient contact information and the patient histories may be in totally separate databases, both of which have to be accessed in order to put information into a third database containing billing history. Though the database information in this example may be different from information in your practice’s databases, the database confusion is the same.

In addition to the database difficulties, running on multiple servers, installing billing technology with IT, and backing up all of your data is overwhelming if not impossible to always be on top of.

Simplify

Medical billing software has simplified the practices office structure to open up more time to continue giving quality service to patients. Medical billing software is a solution employed by countless medical practices to ensure effective and accurate billing.

One of the biggest ways medical billing software saves practices extra work is by enabling information on various servers or databases to be synchronized onto one account. By logging into your account you can access all of the information you need on any patient.

In addition to streamlining the billing process, medical billing software simplifies the financial obligation to billing and database technology by cutting most of it out. Using medical billing software enables tracking, billing, and security of all accounts online, eliminating the need for a costly IT infrastructure. The cost is usually a monthly fee payable as you use it.

Feel free to access your account from anywhere, including your PDA.

Secure

No practice should read an article like this and be convinced to find medical billing software without asking itself if an online medical billing software system is a secure system to change to.

Some of the examples of security precautions medical billing software takes includes electronic back ups, automatic posting, HIPAA and HCFA compliance, and secured accounts only accessible to authorized viewers.

In selecting a system for medical billing to suit your medical practice needs, consider a solution recognized by countless medical practices already. A secure a simple way to streamline medical billing is with medical billing software.


Joe Miller is specialist in online advertising. For more information on medical billing software, please visit AdvancedMD.com .

What you should know about a Medical Billing Specialist

Whether you are a person who is thinking about becoming a medical billing specialist or a company looking for a medical billing specialist, then this article is for you. There are several things that you should be aware of in the medical billing industry and I will walk you through them so that you will have the background information that you need to help you make a decision that will best suit your needs. We will first take a look at what it takes to become a medical billing specialist, and then we will also explore the alternatives to hiring a medical billing specialist.

What is a Medical Billing Specialist?

A medical billing specialist is someone who works with a medical office and is in charge of the company’s medical billing. If you desire to be a medical billing specialist then accuracy and attention to detail is a must as you will most likely be in charge of claims processing, charge entry, and billing and collections. However, most medical offices will hire someone to do more than just be in charge of medical collections. They will want someone to be more of a medical assistant as well. Job duties will then expand to include things like:
• Accounts payable, payroll and banking tasks
• Prepare and maintain patient charts
• Schedule appointments
• Receive and make phone calls
• Perform insurance verification, pre-authorize and referral duties

How do I become a Medical Billing Specialist?

Most businesses will require you to either have several years of experience working as a medical assistant or some kind of advanced certification as a medical assistant. There are several programs out there to help train and educate you to become a medical billing specialist. By doing a Google search for “medical billing specialist” you should be presented with a lot of options to help guide you to becoming a certified medical billing specialist. There are programs that you can complete online and at your own pace. Others require you to attend some classes for a couple of semesters. In my search I found many of the programs to cost around $1000 but some were as much as $6500.

Is it worth it to become a medical billing specialist?

The medical industry is experiencing a tremendous demand for individuals knowledgeable in medical office operations. Medical billing specialists are one of the fastest growing professions and are currently a very high demand job. According to the American Medical Association, there are over 1.2 million Medical Specialists in the United States. If you are interested in this kind of profession, it would be to your advantage to learn more about it.

What about outsourcing?

Because of the time and meticulous accuracy that medical billing requires, there are some companies that only specialize in being a medical billing specialist. Medical offices outsource all of their medical billing practices out to these companies rather than hiring an in-house specialist to manage their medical billing needs.

Is there software that can do everything a Medical Billing Specialist can do?

There is yet another solution to managing your medical billing needs. Companies such as AdvancedMD provide a software solution to be your medical billing specialist. An advantage for a medical office to go this route might be that it will be cheaper in the long run to have software to manage all of their billing needs. Also the electronic medical billing specialist will be less prone to errors unless they are due to a human entry error.

As you can see there are many solutions to help you to better manage your medical office. There are advantages in every category; it just depends on what will be the best fit your office. If you are thinking about becoming a medical billing specialist, I feel that it is worth looking into as it is a very high demand job. However, you should be aware that with alternatives out there, like outsourcing and medical billing software, you might have a little competition.

About the Author

Mike Nielsen is a client account specialist with http://www.10xmarketing.com/- More Visitors. More Buyers. More Revenue. For more information about medical billing specialist, visit http://advancedmd.com/features/medical-billing-specialist.asp


Source: ArticleTrader.com