Medical Billing and Coding
Online Programs

There are a few primary differences between medical billing and coding and health information management.

Those who work in medical billing and coding, who may be referred to as medical records specialists, play a key role in the healthcare revenue cycle, ensuring Electronic Medical Records (EMR) are assembled accurately and entered into health information systems properly. They communicate with healthcare staff, insurance companies, and patients to best represent services provided (coding) and secure payment for those services (billers).

Health Information Management professionals (sometimes referred to as Health Information Technology – HIT) are responsible for maintaining, analyzing, and optimizing these systems. Their role is more on the backend, emphasizing informatics and Information Technology (IT). These professionals create, manage, and analyze the systems billers and coders rely on to maintain the Electronic Health Record (EHR). They can also play a wider role in data analysis, management, protection, and administration of patient health information.

There isn’t always a firm requirement for license or certification, and there are no state requirements. Requirements will vary by employer. However, earning certification to become a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) can help you earn an edge over the competition and get the job you really want.

Medical billers are an important part of the healthcare revenue cycle management process. Medical billers work with medical coders to ensure that providers are paid appropriately for medical services rendered. Billers are responsible for:

• Sending information to the appropriate patients, insurance companies, doctors and medical facilities
• Processing insurance claims for billing and pursuing payment
• Following claims to ensure reimbursement is occurring

With enough experience in the field, many medical billers may find jobs with the option to work from home. However, it can be difficult to find entry-level work-from-home positions. Expect to work your way towards qualifying for these competitive positions after graduating with a degree or diploma.

As a medical insurance billing specialist, you can typically expect a 40-hour work week in an office environment such as a healthcare facility or agency setting. Full-time Medical Insurance Billing Specialists may receive a comprehensive benefit package that includes health insurance, paid vacation, and a retirement savings plan such as profit-sharing or 401(k). Some employers have part-time opportunities available as well.

Herzing University offers several undergraduate healthcare degree and diploma options that you may earn online, in addition to medical coding and billing:

• Health Sciences
• Healthcare Administration - Associate, Bachelor's
• Health Information Management - Associate, Bachelor's
• Medical Office Administration - Diploma, Associate
• Medical Assisting - Diploma, Associate

Each program is positioned uniquely to build a foundation for you to pursue the type of job in healthcare you’re looking for—whether it’s directly caring for patients, focusing on day-to-day administrative tasks or leading the way in a managerial role.

While software can automate certain tasks in a medical biller’s day-to-day workflow, there is still need for the human element in the medical billing process, including case-by-case decision making and interpersonal communication.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical records specialists is expected to increase 9% from 2022-2032.*

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical records specialists earn an average salary of $48,310 per year ($23.23 per hour).*

Learn more details about average pay in medical billing and coding, including a state-by-state breakdown and averages for different types of certified professionals.

You can find an estimate for our medical billing and coding program options by using the Herzing University Tuition Wizard.

Our goal is to provide you with an affordable, career-focused education. We have many options for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, loans or student employment.

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The Herzing University Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist program features 100% online coursework with an optional internship or search project.

Your first step is to get educated. Enrolling in one of Herzing’s billing and coding program options will put you on track to graduate with the education you need in 10-20 months.

We are your lifelong learning partner—ready to help you take the first big step towards your new career in healthcare.