Experience question

[Linda]

Not sure where to ask this so I put it here. I am over half way done with the CPC-H class. So I have been looking online at jobs. Some of the negative things are a bit scary. Makes me wonder are there jobs out there? I understand the need for networking, but I have an odd past with coding. I am an RN that fell into coding 11 years ago. Back then we were called home grown. We learned to code by reading the books. I really liked it and went from working ER to coding and documention aduits for ER. I didn't get certified so when a bigger hospital bought us I was out of a job. So I started an online class. My question is will any of my past experience in coding, legal nurse Consultant classes,legal documentation classes, and peer teaching for documentation to reflect what procedure was done be helpful at all ? All the postings ask for at least two years of experience. I want to do strictly ER coding ( which ask for more ),remote if possiable, I live in a very small area. The doctors within a 30 mile radius works for the same hospital that does all of their coding. When my job was done I had the title of Nurse Auditor II. That is a hard job to find I have looked. Even in different states. Will I been fighting to find that two years of experience,even when I have past experience ? Thanks for your time .

 

[Ruth Sheets]

Linda, I'm not sure I totally follow your question, but yes, your past experience surely will help in your ability to code just because you have more knowledge of the medical terms, diagnoses, and procedure than someone straight out of coding school. Will it help you get a job? It should, provided there are jobs available and you are able to present your experience as being added value to your potential employer. Be confident that your experience is valuable. Write about it in your cover letters, making sure your writing (sentence structure, spelling, punctuation) is impeccable. Get someone who writes well to review it for you before you send it out.

If I was looking for a coding job, I'd network, attend AAPC meetings, and submit my resume to all possible offices and facilities that hire coders in commuting distance. Also put them out on Monster.com and Indeed.com, and similar websites. People that hire coders told us to do that at one of the AAPC chapter meetings I attended, so apparently it is worth doing.

Best wishes in your job search!

 

[Linda]

Thanks Ruth I'm not really sure of my question either. Comes down to when getting the first coding job they ask for 2 years experience at least. Will having 11 years before getting certified make- up for not having that 2 years.

 

[Marc V]

Hi Linda, you may want to consider relocating, I spend 6 months in Florida/6 months Michigan and I am always able to get a job in Florida working for outpatient clinics, there are lots of seniors here! with your experience you would have no problem finding a job.

 

[Linda]

Thanks Mark, a good thought.I could become a snow bird as they are called. I hadn't thought of that. Do you find work in Michigan ? Thanks so much for the reply.

 

[Linda]

Thanks Mark a great thought. I could become a snow bird. I hadn't thought of that. Do you find work in Michigan when you are here ? Thanks so much for the reply.

 

[Marc V]

Hi Linda, No I dont work when I return to Michigan. I take summers off, Michigan employers dont understand the seasonal concept yet, but they will, because of the changes taking place in health care. Florida employers do understand the seasonal concept.
All the best to you!