JOB OUTLOOK FOR MEDICAL CODING SPECIALISTS (CODERS)
The coding specialist works as part of a team to achieve the best quality patient care. Coders are employed in hospitals, physician offices, insurance companies, and a host of other healthcare facilities. The Coding Specialist Program is designed to prepare students for employment as acute care coders, ambulatory coders, and physician specialty coders in healthcare facilities.
The demand for coders has never been greater—and the need is expected to continue for some years to come. As the implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) and automated expert coding systems occurs, the need for qualified coders increases. This allows further employment of coding professionals into home and other work settings.
For more information on a career in medical coding, visit the AHIMA Careers website at: www.hicareers.com
POTENTIAL SALARY
Credentialed coders’ salaries are influenced by the type of setting, experience, and difficulty of the work. Entry-level pay for coders averages approximately $15.00 per hour in Florida. Experienced and credentialed coders who receive incentive pay and/or do contract work earn salaries in the range of $37,000 to $48,000.