What Is Taught in an Online Medical Insurance Billing Course?
Medical insurance billing specialists are employed by private medical offices, hospitals, clinics, medical labs and medical billing agencies. In many cases, you can learn all you need to begin a career in this field by taking an online insurance billing course. Read on to find out what skills are covered in online medical insurance billing courses.
Online Medical Insurance Billing Courses
Online medical insurance billing courses have become a popular choice among those wishing to learn the specific skills needed for this career. Many general skills you'll need to succeed as a medical insurance billing specialist, such as typing and organization skills, are taught in an online course. Some career-specific skills taught in these courses include:
- Coding
- Medical terminology
- Insurance plans and programs
Important Facts for Medical Insurance Billing Graduates
| Median Salary (2018) | $40,350 (for medical records and health information technicians) |
| Entry-Level Education | Postsecondary non-degree award |
| Job Outlook (2016-26) | 13% (for medical records and health information technicians) |
| Work Environment | Hospitals and physicians offices |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Coding Skills
Medical insurance billing generally involves coding systems used by insurance companies to identify specific illnesses and injuries. Diagnostic codes, medical supply codes and surgical codes are covered in online medical insurance billing courses. Skills related to proper documentation and data entry are also typically taught.
Medical Terminology
Online medical insurance billing courses teach the medical terminology skills needed to become a medical billing specialist. Many online courses cover human anatomy and physiology. Names of common diseases are also covered in these courses. In addition, technical terminology relating to medical insurance billing systems is also examined.
Insurance Plans and Programs
A medical insurance billing specialist must be knowledgeable about a variety of insurance plans and programs. Online medical insurance billing courses provide instruction on health maintenance organization (HMO) and preferred provider organization (PPO) programs. Courses in this field can also enhance your knowledge of coverage and eligibility details in federal and state plans.