Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Career Resources

Sample Job Titles

Depending on the employer and focus of the role, you may encounter titles such as:

• Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
• Medical Biller
• Medical Coder
• Revenue Cycle Specialist
• Claims Processor
• Health Information Technician
• Coding Auditor

Sample Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Responsibilities

Though their exact work varies depending on the setting, medical billing and coding specialists typically:

• Review patient medical records and assign accurate diagnosis and procedure codes using systems such as CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS, and ICD-10-PCS
• Enter coded information into electronic health record (EHR) or billing systems to prepare insurance claims
• Submit claims to insurance companies and follow up on unpaid or denied claims to determine reasons and resolve issues
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, maintain patient confidentiality, and adhere to HIPAA guidelines
• Communicate with providers, insurers, and sometimes patients to clarify billing information and support claim resolution

Top Qualities & Skills

Successful billing and coding specialists demonstrate:

1. Attention to Detail – Errors in coding or claims can cause issues for both healthcare providers and patients
2. Technical Proficiency – Work confidently with coding systems, EHR software, and billing platforms
3. Analytical Skills – Interpreting clinical documentation and applying correct code assignments
4. Communication Skills – Working with healthcare teams, insurers, and occasionally patients
5. Organizational Ability – Managing multiple claims, deadlines, and updates to coding guidelines

For more information, see the O*NET Occupational Profile for Medical Records Specialists.

Preparing for the Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Job Search

Medical Biller/Coder Resume Tips

• Highlight your completion of a medical billing and coding training program
• List any industry-recognized certifications (e.g., CPC, CPB, CCA, CBCS)
• Include experience with coding systems (such as CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS, and ICD-10-PCS) and software platforms used in billing and EHRs
• Emphasize any real-world experience such as a practicum

Cover Letter Best Practices

• Introduce yourself briefly and highlight your completed medical billing/coding training
• Explain your interest in healthcare administration and the medical billing/coding field
• Emphasize your technical skills, attention to detail, any hands-on experience, and/or relevant coursework
• Tailor your letter to the employer’s setting (e.g., hospital, clinic, or insurance environment)

Medical Billing and Coding Interview Prep

In interviews, you may be asked about scenarios such as:

• How you verify coding accuracy for complex procedures
• What steps you take when a claim is denied and how you resolve it
• Your experience with medical terminology and coding systems
  

Use specific examples from your practicum or other real-world experience to show your attention to detail, analytical skills, and ability to work with healthcare documentation.

Associations & Certification Opportunities

• American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) – Offers credentials like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) – Offers credentials such as Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
• National Healthcareer Association (NHA) – Offers Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) credentials

Professional Development & Career Growth

Everyone’s career trajectory is unique. As you gain experience, you might:

• Specialize in areas such as auditing, compliance, or risk adjustment coding
• Move into supervisory or management roles within revenue cycle departments
• Transition into health information management, data analysis, auditing, or compliance roles
• Explore opportunities with remote or hybrid work, depending on employer and experience