Medical Billing and Coding Salary

Are you willing to step into the healthcare industry but are hesitant about how to do so without attending years of schooling and loads of money?

Do you also have questions about the inner workings of managing medical records and processing bills in clinics or hospitals?

If you answered yes, pursuing a career in medical billing and coding might be ideal for you.

These professionals, called medical billers and coders, are responsible for accurately documenting and billing for medical services rendered.

If you’re considering this fulfilling career, you may have questions about the salaries they earn and the differences in their salaries across states and cities.

We’re here to address all such queries and more, so let’s dive right in!

What is a Medical Biller and Coder, and What Do They Do?

Let us first answer what exactly is Medical Biller and Coder.

Medical Billers and Coders are healthcare professionals responsible for translating medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments into universal codes for billing and insurance purposes.

They play an important role in ensuring accurate documentation and reimbursement for medical services.

Here’s what Medical Billers and Coders do:

1. Coding: They assign specific codes to medical procedures, diagnoses, and treatments using standard code sets such as CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), ICD (International Classification of Diseases), and HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System).

2. Billing: They use these codes to create and submit claims to insurance companies, government healthcare programs, and patients for reimbursement. This involves understanding insurance policies, verifying patient information, and ensuring claims are accurate and compliant with regulations.

3. Record Keeping: They maintain detailed and up-to-date medical records, including patient histories, treatment plans, and billing information. These records are essential for tracking patient care, ensuring legal compliance, and facilitating communication between healthcare providers and insurance companies.

4. Communication: They often act as bridges between healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients, addressing billing inquiries, resolving discrepancies, and ensuring that all parties understand the billing process.

See: What is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical Billing and Coding Salary

Now, turning to the main question you’re likely to be most interested in: what is the typical annual salary for a medical biller and coder?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual income for a medical biller and coder is $48,780, or approximately $23.45 per hour.

It’s worth noting, however, that these numbers can vary depending on various factors such as experience, geographic location, certifications, and more.

For example, a medical biller and coder working in a high-cost-of-living area like New York City may earn considerably more than one working in a rural area.

Medical Biller and Coder Salary By State

As we mentioned earlier, salaries for medical billing and coding professionals can differ based on where you’re located.

Now, let’s dig into how salaries vary across different industries and states for folks in this field.

First, the top five highest-paying industries for medical billers and coders include:

• Grantmaking and Giving Services with an annual mean salary of $74,840.
• Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services with an annual mean salary of $72,700.
• Insurance Carriers with an annual mean salary of $69,330.
• Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers with an annual mean salary of $69,000.
• Software Publishers with an annual mean salary of $67,040.

Now, let’s take a look at the top five highest-paying states for medical billers and coders across the U.S.:

• District of Columbia – $70,900 annually
• Washington – $64,250 annually
• California – $64,070 annually
• Connecticut – 63,250 annually
• Maryland – $62,930 annually

Looking at these figures, you might be thinking, why not move to one of such higher-paying states?

While that may look like a good option, it is also important to consider the additional costs you might have to bear if you decide to move states. This can include the cost of living, which is usually higher in all of the above-mentioned five states, like accommodation, travel, and so on.

In contrast, let’s also look at the top 5 lowest paying states across the U.S. for medical billers and coders:

• Montana – $49,020 annually
• Nevada – $48,110 annually
• Texas – $48,030 annually
• Arkansas – $44,120 annually
• Mississippi – $42,440 annually

Medical Billing and Coding Job Outlook

Looking ahead, the outlook for careers in medical billing and coding seems pretty bright. The healthcare industry is on the rise, especially with the aging baby boomer population and the increasing demand for medical services.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected employment growth for roles like medical billers and coders is around 8% from 2020 to 2030. That’s roughly 16,500 new job opportunities in this field!

So, if you’re considering a career in medical billing and coding, the future looks promising with plenty of job openings expected in the next decade.

Is Certification Important for Medical Billers and Coders?

While it might not be required in most states, getting certified as a medical biller and coder can be really beneficial. It shows you’ve had the right training and know-how to keep medical records accurate and billing processes in check. This is important because it helps ensure everyone is paid duly.

Certified professionals also play a key role in meeting the standards set by organizations like the AHIMA and AAPC. These certifications not only prove that you’re up to par with industry standards but also help maintain a consistent level of quality and safety in healthcare facilities, which is a big part of the job.

And when it comes to pay, being certified often means you’ll earn more than those without certification. Plus, it can open up doors for you to advance in your career and land better-paying positions.

Conclusion

In short, how much medical billers and coders make and their job opportunities depend on where they work and how much experience they have. But one thing’s clear: their pay reflects just how important their role is in keeping things running smoothly and patients healthy.

Related Resources:

• How Long is Medical Billing and Coding School
• Best 4-Week Online Medical Coding and Billing Course
• Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses Cost
• A Day in the Life of a Medical Coder
• Medical Billing vs Coding
• Medical Billing & Coding Online Schools
• CPC Certification