Every doctor and every clinic needs a competent and trustworthy personality to submit the correct claims to insurance companies for payment. If you would like to be that person, you can choose a Medical Billing and Coding Career.
Choosing a career as a medical biller and coder is a great way to help the health community. You don’t have to worry about how to get started.
We will link you with free online courses with certificates and other vital tips that will guide you throughout your career.
There are accelerated online courses that allow you to earn a certificate in as little as four weeks.
However, many medical billing and coding courses are available that allow you to earn the same certificate in a longer time frame. You can select the ones that meet your career goals.
Table of contents
- Why Choose Free Medical Billing and Coding Courses With Certificates Online?
- Who Is A Medical Biller and Coder?
- How to Choose the Best Medical Billing and Coding Certification or Degree
- How Do I Apply For A Medical Coding and Billing Certification?
- List of Websites to get Free Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses with Certificates
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
Why Choose Free Medical Billing and Coding Courses With Certificates Online?
Online education has recently become one of the most popular higher-learning alternatives. You don’t necessarily need on-campus classes to earn a degree; online courses are an excellent option to achieve your educational goals.
Whether you want to study as a hobby, improve your knowledge in specific areas or pick up a new skill, it’s often possible to find an online program that is right for you.
Study shows that over 6 million students in the United States are doing at least one online program. Over 2 million students are studying for a fully online degree. Similar statistics exist in the UK, Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia.
Choosing free courses online gives you the flexibility of studying in the classroom of your choice without attending a campus-based institution.
During your classes, you communicate with your faculty and other students via e-mail, electronic forums, videoconferencing, social media chat rooms, and other forms of computer-based interaction.
The programs often include an online training system and tools to produce a virtual classroom.
Who Is A Medical Biller and Coder?
Medical billers and coders specialize in managing the healthcare facility, patient data, invoices, payment processing, and related insurance information.
They often work in a physician’s office, hospital, rehab center office, or nursing home. Their job function at each office may vary a bit, depending on the specifics of where they work, but for the most part, it is the same.
Here is a list of essential duties you can expect to do as a medical coder:
- Review patient files for doctor’s notes on condition, procedures, and office visits to assign codes for billing accurately.
- Work with doctors, nurses, medical assistants, and patients to ensure data accuracy.
- Bill insurance companies for services performed.
- Study claims information for accuracy, proper signatures, and needed prior authorizations.
- Audit denied claims for accuracy and reasoning of denial.
- Resending claim to insurance companies once missing information has been received.
- Understand and maintain the patient’s privacy during the billing process.
How to Choose the Best Medical Billing and Coding Certification or Degree
When choosing the best option to get your medical billing and coding education, the first thing that you should consider is the type of certificate or degree you are looking to earn.
Most employers ask that you have an associate’s degree, but many are happy if you have a certificate in medical billing. However, you can also choose to earn a bachelor’s degree in medical coding and billing.
Here are a few things you should consider before enrolling in medical billing and coding training.
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Previous Education
If you already earned some college credits, taken extra courses, attended a vocational college, or have participated in any post-secondary school, the accelerated you choose may allow you to transfer some of your previously received credits.
Medical Program Accreditation
Employers often lookout for applicants with a reputable educational background, which requires training from an accredited school.
If you plan on furthering your education, ensure that the certification or program you choose is either accredited itself or that the college, trade school, or institution from which you attain your certification is accredited even if you’re not paying for your training.
Credits earned through an unaccredited institution will have a high chance of not transferring to a two to four-year college or university.
Time Frame for a Medical Coding and Billing Certification
Another important factor to consider is the duration of medical coding training. If you are in need of a job as soon as possible, then choosing an online program is going to be your fastest route to your new career.
However, if you have the time and the money to spend in college, you may want to consider earning your associate’s or even a bachelor’s degree.
How Do I Apply For A Medical Coding and Billing Certification?
Actually, applying for free online certification courses is just like applying for on-campus learning-there is no much different. You will follow the same steps and provide similar documents. Check out the enrollment steps and considerations outlined below.
Select the school and programs you want to apply to
The first step you need to take is to make a choice of school and program, thereafter you obtain a form and complete the registration process.
Complete the online application
During the registration process, you’ll be required to set up an account that includes some personal information.
This will also involve uploading the electronic versions of your Passport photograph, Curriculum Vitae, Personal Statement, and any other relevant documents.
Next will be to remit payment of all tuition and fees. However, if it is tuition-free, it will be indicated.
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Interview
Most online courses may require an interview, which can be conducted over the phone or online, on Skype.
An interview on Skype is just like a traditional interview. In this case, ensure your computer camera works well and you have a good internet connection. Also, ensure you dress formally just like you would for an offline interview.
Start Lectures
Once you’ve completed the online registration and interview, you will be granted access to select your degree level and course of study then you can start enrolling in any classes.
What Is the Duration for a Free Medical Coding and Billing Certification Online Courses?
The length of online classes varies. Some can be completed in as little as five weeks, while others don’t have to be finished within a year’s time.
A typical Medical Coding and Billing Certification online program last 8 weeks, some may take up to 10 weeks depending on the program provider. Free training, however, may take a lesser time to complete.
Additionally, you have to understand that the duration of your online courses lies in your power. For instance, most instructors post assignments at the beginning of the program.
So, if a free medical billing and coding course is said to last eight to nine weeks, you can complete the work and submit it as you choose.
Is Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses Free?
Not all medical billing and certification courses online are free. Some websites may offer free online medical billing and coding certification programs that give you basic information and knowledge on medical billing and coding.
However, to get certifications, you may have to part with some dollars.
List of Websites to get Free Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses with Certificates
Below are free Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses with Certificates.
- PPMC Academy Inc. on Udemy
- Southern Careers Institute
- FreeMedicalBillingTraining.com
- Quizlet
- All-Things-Medical-Billing.com
- MedicalBillingAndCoding.org
- New York Institute of Career Development (NYICD)
#1. PPMC Academy Inc. on Udemy
PPMC Academy Inc. is committed to creating quality medical practice management training at an affordable price. They partner with physician practices, hospitals, and other organizations by providing training in Medical Billing and Coding, Front Desk Administration, and Practice Management.
PPMC Academy also provides exam reviews for individuals planning to take an AHIMA, AAPC or similar coding certification exam.
Registering for its free course grants you access to free live webinars on various medical billing and coding topics throughout the year.
Whether you prefer an instructor-led or self-paced course, we have several options designed to fit your schedule and your budget. About 4,246 Students are currently enrolled in this training.
The training covers the following topics:
- Medical Coder tasks
- Medical Biller tasks
- Diagnostic coding
- Procedural coding
- Education options
- How to gain work experience
#2. Southern Careers Institute
Southern Careers Institute provides employer-tailored programs to students to help them prepare for long-term success. Their medical billing training program covers the first certification cost.
Keep in mind that you have to hold additional certification for receiving the proper preparation through this free medical training or courses.
#3. FreeMedicalBillingTraining.com
FreeMedicalBillingTraining.com provides some mini-medical coding training online for free. the line that is organized by general documents on medical billing and coding.
In this program, you’ll gain access to a 1-hour total video online course material that includes medical billing and coding topics.
Coursework covers the basic concept of medical billing and coding efficiently and in a practical way. You will also access a long and a short video presentation with course material.
#4. Quizlet
One of the great platforms to access free online certification courses is Quizlet.
Quizlet is the world’s largest online teacher and student community committed to helping students to prepare as highly-skilled masters based on the subject they are learning.
There are varieties of free lessons, study guides, and tests from a different variety of teachers and students. You can also have access to medical billing and coding study sets. It offers medical coding training online free.
#5. All-Things-Medical-Billing.com
Another great site you can gain some free resources page that can help you to learn medical billing and coding is All-Things-Medical-Billing.com.
You will have access to a variety of free medical billing and coding course and resources like:
- The medical billing terms: Designed for understanding the terminology of medical billing
- Medical Billing and Coding Careers Guide: Provide 15 pages of medical billing and coding overview to those who consider a career as a medical biller and coder.
- Medical Billing Insurance Claim Flowchart: A free medical tool explained how the healthcare claim process performs and how to work insurance claims billing by their flowchart.
#6. MedicalBillingAndCoding.org
This site provides video lectures for each form of medical billing and coding. It will be very beneficial to you if you want to start your own billing and coding practice.
Its free online medical billing and coding certification programs are a great start for beginners.
#7. New York Institute of Career Development (NYICD)
NYICD unlike other medical billing and coding schools provides a higher level of support to the students. Here, you will enroll and start the courses at any time.
Just log in and immediately take the first set of free online medical billing and coding certification programs. The school will be covered by the price of the study materials and the exam.
3 Free Medical Billing and Coding Online Courses with Certificates
Finding the perfect medical billing and coding online courses with certificates will be greatly determined by what you need at the moment.
While there are numerous medical billing and coding online course with certificates, below are some free online courses to start with.
#1. What is Medical Coding and Billing By Udemy
Udemy offers a free medical billing and coding course online that which is an introductory course on medical billing and coding.
Individuals who enroll in this course will learn medical coder tasks, medical biller tasks, diagnostic coding, procedural coding, and education options. If you complete the free online courses, you will also learn how to gain work experience.
Follow the link below to sign up.
#2. Cybersecurity in Healthcare by Coursera.org
This free online certification program was developed as part of secureHospitals.eu project.
It has flexible deadlines and a shareable certificate. Its free online medical billing and coding certification program is offered 100% online and individuals need no previous experience
This free online medical coding course with a certificate can be completed in 15 hours. Follow the link below to enroll.
Related Article: 21 High Paying Medical Jobs With Little Schooling
#3. Medical Billing and Coding Fundamentals
Ensign college offers fundamentals certificates to individuals who complete their coursework.
The free medical billing and coding classes online prepare students to function in medical clinic coding and billing departments and facilities.
Individuals who take this course will demonstrate accurate and efficient billing and medical coding principles. They will learn how to read and analyze patient charts and operative notes.
Follow the link below to enroll.
What Can I do with a Medical Billing and Coding Online Certification?
Earning a Medical Billing and Coding certification can lead to lucrative career opportunities.
Professionals in this field are qualified for clinical analyst positions, regulating and improving clinical practices, optimizing workflows, interpreting data, and developing solutions.
Their role is to construct, manage, and improve an organization’s information technology framework. Below are the various positions you can occupy with a Medical Billing and Coding certification.
- Medical Records and Health Information Technician
- Billing Specialist
- Insurance Claims Specialist
- Medical Biller
- Collections Specialist
- Coding Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
Earning a Medical Billing and Coding certification can lead to lucrative career opportunities. Professionals in this field are qualified for clinical analyst positions, regulating and improving clinical practices, optimizing workflows, interpreting data, and developing solutions
According to aapc.com, the salary for health information technicians with two credentials rises to an average of $64,890. Billing and coding specialists with three or more credentials earn approximately $70,608 per year.
Before you consider any certification program, it is advisable you check the employment outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical coding and billing have an 8% projected job outlook, which is much faster than average.
Conclusion
The idea of free medical billing training may instantly be appealing, especially to students on a budget who want to enter a lucrative and interesting career in health care but, this does not necessarily make free courses a good idea.
If you decide to take the free route, you will face a number of disadvantages that can severely hurt your chances of securing a job.
However, you should not trivialize a free certification in this discipline opportunity because it could help you to build foundational skills and gain the experience necessary to participate in any healthcare setting you find yourself.
Take advantage of the programs we’ve highlighted in this article, they will help you pursue a wide range of occupations.
References
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