Coding Specialist Salary in United States

How much does a Coding Specialist make in United States? The average salary for a coding specialist in United States Per Hour, Per Day, Per Month and Per Year.

Last Updated on 5 April 2024

Coding Specialist Salary in United States

• Per Hour: $25.39
• Per Day: $262
• Per Month: $4,136
• Per Year: $58,420

Did you know that there are several ways to become a successful coding specialist? And below is how.

How to become a Coding Specialist

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a coding specialist:

1. Understand the Role: Start by understanding what a coding specialist does. Coding specialists, also known as medical coders or coding professionals, assign alphanumeric codes to diagnoses, procedures, and treatments documented in medical records. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, data analysis, and reimbursement purposes.
2. Educational Requirements:
   • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most employers require a high school diploma or GED.
   • Postsecondary Education: While not always mandatory, completing a certificate program, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree in medical coding, health information technology, or a related field can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills.
   • Coursework: Your coursework may cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, healthcare laws and regulations, and medical coding systems (e.g., ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS).
3. Gain Experience:
   • Internship or Entry-Level Position: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in healthcare facilities, medical billing companies, or insurance companies. This experience will help you understand real-world coding practices and workflows.
   • Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering at healthcare organizations to build your experience and network.
4. Obtain Certification:
   • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS): Offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the CCS credential demonstrates proficiency in coding for hospitals and other healthcare facilities.
   • Certified Professional Coder (CPC): Offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the CPC credential is focused on outpatient coding in physician offices and clinics.
   • Other Certifications: Depending on your career goals and specialization (e.g., risk adjustment coding, medical auditing), there are additional certifications you may pursue.
5. Stay Updated: Medical coding standards and regulations change regularly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with industry developments, coding guidelines, and best practices. Join professional associations, attend workshops or webinars, and participate in continuing education activities.
6. Develop Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, coding specialists should possess strong attention to detail, analytical skills, communication skills (written and verbal), problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work efficiently and accurately under pressure.
7. Apply for Jobs: Once you have the necessary education, experience, and certifications, start applying for coding specialist positions. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences, and prepare for interviews by practicing common coding scenarios and demonstrating your understanding of coding principles.
8. Continued Learning: Medical coding is a dynamic field, so continue learning and expanding your knowledge throughout your career. Pursue advanced certifications, take on new challenges, and stay abreast of emerging trends in healthcare and coding practices.

Apart from how to become a coding specialist, please also see what are the requirements and criteria.

Requirements and criteria to become a Coding Specialist in United States

Here’s a breakdown of the common requirements and criteria:

1. Education:
   • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most positions require at least a high school diploma or GED.
   • Postsecondary Education: Pursuing a certificate program, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree in medical coding, health information technology, or a related field is highly beneficial. These programs provide the necessary knowledge and skills needed for coding roles.
   • Coursework: Your coursework should cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, healthcare laws and regulations, and medical coding systems (e.g., ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS).
2. Certification:
   • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS): Offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the CCS credential demonstrates proficiency in coding for hospitals and other healthcare facilities. It’s a widely recognized certification in the industry.
   • Certified Professional Coder (CPC): Offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the CPC credential focuses on outpatient coding in physician offices and clinics. While not specific to United States, it’s a valuable certification for coding specialists nationwide.
3. Experience:
   • Internship or Entry-Level Position: Gain hands-on experience through internships, externships, or entry-level positions in healthcare facilities, medical billing companies, or insurance companies. This experience helps you understand real-world coding practices and workflows.
   • Volunteer Work: Consider volunteering at healthcare organizations to build your experience and network.
4. United States-Specific Requirements:
   • Compliance with State Regulations: Ensure that you comply with United States’s healthcare laws and regulations related to medical coding, patient privacy (HIPAA), and billing practices.
   • Understanding of United States Healthcare System: Familiarize yourself with United States healthcare system, including Medicaid (Medi-Cal) and other state-specific programs, as they may have unique coding and billing requirements.
   • Continuing Education: Stay updated with United States-specific coding guidelines, policies, and industry updates through continuing education, workshops, and professional development activities.
5. Soft Skills:
   • Possess strong attention to detail, analytical skills, communication skills (both written and verbal), problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work efficiently and accurately under pressure.
   • Understand medical ethics, confidentiality, and the importance of maintaining patient data privacy.
6. Job Search and Networking:
   • Tailor your resume to highlight relevant education, certifications, and experience.
   • Network with professionals in the healthcare and coding industries in United States. Join local chapters of coding associations, attend networking events, and connect with industry peers on professional platforms like Indeed.

Most common benefits for Coding Specialists

If you have met the requirements to become a coding specialist then it’s time for you to apply for a job at your dream company. Good luck. [ Coding Specialist Salary in United States ]