Medical Billing vs. Medical Coding Classes: Which One is For You?

The healthcare industry is constantly expanding and evolving, which in turn creates more career opportunities. If you currently have experience in or simply have an interest in medical administrative work, then earning a diploma online in medical billing and coding may be the perfect fit for you! Ashworth College offers a Medical Billing and Coding Career Diploma program that may help you earn professional certifications and prepare you for the field.

In some offices, there might be a medical biller and a medical coder, but often it is the same person that handles both responsibilities. In case you were wondering the difference between medical billing and medical coding, here’s a quick breakdown.

Medical Billing

The person responsible for medical billing primary will submit and follow up with insurance claims.

First, they need to understand the different types of codes that are used to translate a healthcare service to determine a billing claim. According to the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the medical biller follows the claim to ensure that the work the providers perform is reimbursed. With medical billing, a background in insurance may be beneficial, but is not required. As long as you’re comfortable with numbers and can excel in both a social and independent environment, then this is work you may enjoy.

Learn more: Medical Billing & Coding Day in the Life

Medical Coding

Medical coders review clinical statements and assign standard codes using CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II classification systems. The purpose of these codes is to ensure billing and insurance claims run efficiently. Ashworth’s medical billing and coding training places emphasis on the CPT, ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and HCPCS coding systems. You'll learn how to assign codes for diagnoses and procedures using all of these systems.

Having the skill to do both billing and coding may give you an edge when seeking employment. Ashworth’s program was recently revised and features the most up-to-date information regarding HIPAA regulations and the Affordable Care Act. Tuition includes a proctored Certified Billing and Coding Specialist exam delivered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) at no extra cost! Get more information on the program and consider enrolling today.

Learn more: How to Become a Medical Coder With No Experience