Medical Coding Certification: Which One Is Right for You
Medical coding is a highly recommended profession for those looking for a job in medical field. It is the process of converting a patient’s health information data into universally set alphanumeric codes. The data will include the medical processes implemented, medical equipment used, symptoms observed, diagnosis, and other vital information.
To begin with, medical coding certification is not a mandatory requirement to obtain the job of medical coder. Nonetheless, having a certification enhances the chances of acceptance. Further, it will state that the candidate is qualified to perform the job.
We will be looking in detail into the medical coding certifications in India in this article. The common medical coding certifications are Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Medical Coder (CMC), and Certified Outpatient Coder (COC). Knowing the medical coding certification types would be helpful if you are looking to learn medical coding.
Why Are Certifications Important in Medical Coding?
Although certifications are not compulsory to become a medical coder, those are highly beneficial for you. The following underscore the importance of certification. Ensure to choose the best medical coding certification that is suitable for you:
- Errors Can Lead To Claim Rejections – Erroneous data as well as other mistakes can result in rejection of insurance claims. The reimbursement process would be more productive and easy, when a qualified and certified medical scribe does it.
- Exceptional Job Opportunities – Medical coding certification silently states that the candidate is a qualified one. This would create better job scenarios. In fact, medical scribes with CPC certification and other qualifications are high in demand.
· Career Growth – Career growth is a concern once a person joins the job. Certification will aid in career growth. A certified person is considered for shouldering higher responsibilities compared to a non-certified one.
Which Are the Top Medical Coding Certifications to Consider?
The medical coding certification in India follows internationally approved guidelines. It has to be so, since the US and other developed nations are the primary destination for the medical coding jobs.
The best medical coding certifications that you can consider are:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – Certified Professional Coder or CPC is the most recognized medical coding certification recognized across the world. The certification highlights how skilled and qualified the medical coder is. Furthermore, the employee with CPC certification earns a better wage than one without this medical coding certification.
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) – The CCS certification is provided by American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). The candidate with this medical coding certification will have a clear idea about medical data, patient health reports, and other relevant medical documents. Accuracy and efficiency of the candidate are also ascertained while testing for CCS certification. CCS and CPC certifications are different types of medical coding certification.
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) – Those with CCA certification have proven ability to work in multiple work spaces that include hospitals. This medical coding certification is issued by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
· Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) – COCs are efficient medical coders with competency in coding for outpatient hospitals. Of late, the demand for medical coders with COC certification has been increasing.
Choose the Right Certification for Your Career Goals
The availability of a number of medical coding certification can of course confuse you. Taking guidance from a professional counsellor would be advisable in this scenario. The career growth with directly depend on the certification. Whether you are gaining the medical coding certification in India or from abroad.
The reasons why choosing the right certifications are vital includes:
- Availability of job opportunities will vary according to the medical certification you have. Hence, the certification has to be chosen after a thorough study only.
- Your interest is another element to consider while picking the medical coding certification. Have a detailed looking into the types of medical coding certifications in India and understand the unique aspects of each. Discuss with a knowledgeable educational counsellor if required.
- The industries where medical coders with different certifications also differ.
- Determining what you want to accomplish in life is another factor to consider prior to finalizing the medical coding certification.
Choose the right medical coding certification and ensure a productive career.
The Conclusion
Medical coding is a highly advisable profession if you are looking for a job-oriented course. Learn medical coding only from an approved and acclaimed institution. In this way, you can be sure of the quality of education, the probability of placement, and the right guidance.
We would be happy to assist you in this regard. Contact us right away if you are looking for medical coding course in India.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of medical coding certification is best?
The commonly considered medical coding certifications are CPC, CCA, COC and CCS. The best medical coding certification will differ depending on the field you are considering. Professional growth, career path etc. will depend on the medical coding certification one has. Hence, instead of looking for which kind of medical coding certification is best, professional aspects must be considered.
Is COC or CPC better?
Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) provides services to outpatient clinics, hospitals, and such setups. At the same time, a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) works in in-patient settings. There is not much difference in terms of medical coding knowledge a CPC and COC has. Nonetheless, CPCs are observed to have more career growth prospects.
Which is better, CPC or CCA?
It is difficult to state which one is better, CPC or CCA. The career growth and other related aspects will depend on the person’s skills, ability, and performance, whether s/he has CCA or CPC.
Which course is good for medical coding?
Although Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is the most popular among the medical coding certifications, the right course will depend on one’s professional choices. A detailed discussion with a knowledgeable counsellor would be helpful in determining the course for medical coding.