How Much Does Medical Billing and Coding Make an Hour?

Introduction

Medical billing and coding is a fast-growing field within the healthcare industry. As more and more medical facilities require accurate coding of patient diagnoses and treatments, the demand for skilled professionals in this area is increasing. The question remains: how much do medical billing and coding professionals make an hour?

Average Medical Billing and Coding Salaries by State

The average hourly salary for medical billing and coding professionals varies depending on location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical billers and coders in California earn the highest hourly wage, with an average of $27.70 per hour. In comparison, medical billers and coders in Wyoming earn the lowest hourly wage, with an average of $14.57 per hour.

In addition to geographical location, there are other factors that can affect the average hourly pay rate for medical billing and coding professionals. These include experience level, type of employer, size of the organization, and the complexity of the coding and billing processes. For example, those who work for hospitals or large clinics may earn higher wages than those working for smaller practices.

Comparing Medical Billing and Coding Salaries to Other Healthcare Occupations

When comparing medical billing and coding salaries to other healthcare occupations, it’s important to consider the education and certification requirements. Generally, medical billers and coders must hold a high school diploma or GED and obtain postsecondary certification as a Certified Professional Coder (CPC). This certification requires passing an exam and completing continuing education courses every two years. In contrast, many other healthcare professions require additional education such as a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree.

Job growth is another factor to consider when comparing medical billing and coding salaries to other healthcare occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical billers and coders is projected to grow 8 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. This is due to an increased emphasis on preventive care and electronic health records, which will require more skilled professionals to accurately code and process medical claims.

Increasing Your Medical Billing and Coding Salary

If you’re looking to increase your medical billing and coding salary, there are a few steps you can take to invest in your future. First, consider investing in additional training or certification. For example, you may want to pursue a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification or a Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS) certification. Both of these certifications provide specialized knowledge and skills that can help you stand out in the field.

Continuing education is also important for medical billers and coders. Many employers require their staff to stay up-to-date on changes in the industry, so staying current with coding and billing regulations is essential. Additionally, taking courses in topics such as medical terminology and anatomy can be beneficial for those in the field.

Conclusion

Medical billing and coding is a growing field with good job prospects and potential for advancement. The average hourly wage for medical billing and coding professionals varies depending on location, experience level, and type of employer. Professionals looking to increase their salary can benefit from investing in additional training and certification, as well as continuing education courses.

For more information on medical billing and coding salaries, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website. You can also find additional resources on medical coding and billing certifications, continuing education courses, and other career resources.