Why do I need to become Certified as a medical coder? There are many benefits to having a CPC® or CCS® certified medical coder’s credential:
- Job Requirement – Today, most employers only hire certified medical coders. If hired without the credential, the employer gives you 6 months to 1 year to pass the exam. If you do NOT earn the credential within the time allowed, the employer may terminate your employment.
- Higher Salary – A credentialed medical coder earns 20%-30% more than a non-certified coders.
- Increased Career Advancement – The credential opens the door for medical coders to pursue more challenging positions in the health care business. Each credential qualifies them for greater job opportunities.
- Increased Job Marketability – An estimated 70% of employers hire credentialed candidates over those with no credential. The credential demonstrates a level of expertise in medical coding, a dedication to the health care industry, higher level of coding quality, and commitment to continued education. To an employer, that means fewer coding errors, increased insurance claim reimbursements, and decreased claim denials.
- Benefits of organization membership – As a member of the AAPC or AHIMA organization, you will have access to private job listings, local chapter events that provide an opportunity to network with other coding professionals who may be hiring managers, conferences and workshops to further their career, and discounts on coding products