Career guide

How to become a Medical Billing & Coding Specialist

Turn doctors' notes into insurance codes and claims so providers get paid. Much of this work can be done remotely.

Training time
About 4 months to 1 year
Certification
AAPC CPC, AHIMA CCA or NHA CBCS
Median pay
$51,140 per year
BLS, May 2025 · medical records specialists
Where you'll work
Physician offices, hospitals, billing companies, remote
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What a Billing & Coding does

  • Assign ICD-10 and CPT codes to visits and procedures
  • Submit claims to insurance companies
  • Follow up on denied or unpaid claims
  • Protect patient privacy under HIPAA

Steps to get started

  1. Pick a state-approved or accredited program. Check your state's requirements first; they differ.
  2. Complete classroom (often online) and hands-on training.
  3. Pass the certification exam: AAPC CPC, AHIMA CCA or NHA CBCS.
  4. Apply for jobs. Many employers hire right out of training.

See requirements by state.

Where it can lead

Coders can specialize, move into auditing or compliance, or manage a billing office.

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