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Mandated requirements for implementing electronic health records (EHRs) and the transition to ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding – plus a large population of aging baby boomers – will keep medical coders and billers as necessary commodities for years to come. Knowing this, however, doesn’t necessarily make a new Certified medical biller feel any better when he or she is struggling to find a job.
Set Yourself Apart from the Competition
In AAPC forums and social media pages, I’ve noticed messages from those who are struggling to find work. In a distressed economy, finding your dream job may be more difficult, but it isn’t impossible. As an instructor for an online school, I have advice for medical billers who are trying to land their first job:
Medical Coding Jobs | Advice to Help Medical Billers Find a Job
Positive Attitude Counts: Attitude is the single most important factor in getting anything in life you desire. Always stay positive and expect to be successful. Do things to assist you in keeping your motivation up—read Coding Edge, attend webinars, etc. Stay excited about the career you have chosen and diligently trained for. Don’t give up.
Be Flexible: Being willing to intern for 30-60 days to show your skills to a prospective employer is an excellent way to get experience and land a great job. And willingness to take any administrative job in a medical office, clinic, or hospital is a smart way to move up the ladder. Many people have moved very quickly into medical billing jobs going this route.
Use Marketing to Your Advantage: Be able to market yourself effectively. A great resume and a professional appearance help to sell the idea to the interviewer that you ARE the right person for the job.
Develop a Strong Approach/Strategy: Know your job search strategy and stick to it. Use AAPC’s online job search. Attend local chapter meetings and events to network with others in your area. Participate in AAPC forums and social media pages. Read your local newspaper’s Help Wanted section. Call and send resumes to local clinics, hospitals, and doctors’ offices. Be proactive because a passive approach to job searching won’t get you anywhere in any career field.
Take Advantage of the Wait: While searching for a job, continue your education and add to your existing skill set. The more credentials and training you have, the more attractive you will be to prospective employers. Preparing for the ICD-10 proficiency also is a wonderful idea.
If you are a medical biller, consider getting the Certified Professional Coder – Hospital Outpatient (CPC-H®) or a specialty credential. Obtaining the new Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM®) or the Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA®) certifications through AAPC is an excellent way to power up your resume and skill set and make you more attractive to a potential employer.
Continuing to add to your skill set will keep you motivated and positive.
Keep Your Chin Up
Although it may be a tough time to land a job, it’s easy to make yourself more attractive to potential employers. With an effective approach to your job hunt, while maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process, you’re sure to have employment success.
By: Dawn Moreno, PhD, CBCS, CMAA, MTC. Lives in the beautiful Southwest United States and has been an instructor for medical coding/billing for the past 7 years. Interested in quality medical billing training? Find out more Medical Biller Tips Here!!