The #1 Thing You Need as an Entry-Level Medical Coder

[@ContempoCoding]

Hey everyone! 🎉 Want to dive into Medical Billing & Coding? Check this out: MedicalCodingMasterclass.com/ 🤓 I'm hosting a totally free career masterclass. Learn how to become a certified pro and land that dream job! No student loans, no full-time college drama. In this session, we’ll cover: 👉🏻 What a day in the life of a Medical Coder looks like 👉🏻 Insider info like salary and growth in the industry 👉🏻 Tips for scoring the right training and even how to get it on the cheap! 👉🏻 Why you might wanna rethink that financial aid 👉🏻 What employers are really looking for It's jam-packed with goodies to get you started. Catch you there!

[@MD-vq1kg]

I had a hard time finding a job after earning my CCA. I took a job as a Documentation Specialist which involved prepping charts for scanning. It was sooooo boring! However, I walked by the Ancillary/ED Coding Managers office everyday and would say, “Hi! I’m certified and looking.” One day she asked if I was applying for an open coding position and I asked her if she wanted an experienced coder. Her response was “just apply.” That was the beginning of my coding career. So get in the door somewhere in a health system, and network like crazy.

[@ContempoCoding]

That's such an inspiring story! It truly highlights the power of persistence, networking, and being proactive. Sometimes just getting your foot in the door and making your intentions known can lead to unexpected opportunities. Thanks for sharing your journey and emphasizing the importance of determination and networking.

[@alanderiadavis5940]

That really seems like what it is. I sat both CBCS and CCA and got a billing job 😢 I hate it because of multiple reasons. I’m about to sit the CPC in October, wish me luck

[@PinkCatEyes]

My story is similar. I’m from a VERY small town in southeastern KY. So I finished school in 2010 at age 27. My Spring semester I had to do an internship at a local med-large practice, and I spent most of my time pulling charts and making copies of notes for billing, and helping med records. So on my last day I went to billing supervisor and went to HR said I love it here. So I was hired in registration, 6 months later I was doing charge entry and the deposit for the radiology dept, then moved to preAuths, then a year later I was in the billing dept! Moral of the story be flexible, and learn at every post, it will not be overlooked!

[@doreenmarie8166]

Im having such a hard time finding a coding job as a cca im bout to give up. And not even sitting for my ccs

[@alanderiadavis5940]

@@doreenmarie8166 don’t give up! I’m sitting mine next weekend. After reviewing some exam practice questions I’d say the concepts are pretty similar but more coding questions as opposed to the basics of the CCA. I’ll come back with an update about the exam and job search

[@LenientProcess]

As a nurse transitioning into coding, job hunting is probably my #1 anxiety-inducing thing about the entire process of training/getting certified/getting a job. Thanks for the tips!

[@ContempoCoding]

Your nursing background will be a great asset in coding. Understandably, job hunting can be nerve-wracking, but remember, you're not starting from scratch; you're building on your experience. Keep pushing forward and best of luck!

[@alanderiadavis5940]

Ma’am you have been very helpful. I have passed the CBCS and CCA with the help of your videos (I did an online course as well). I have finally decided to sit the CPC this October (I probably should have done this first, I was just scared lol) I don’t know if you’ll ever see this but I just want to let you know I recently purchased a CPC review study guide on Amazon and someone has 2 QR codes at the back of the book that leads to your videos. I don’t know if that’s legal or if you are affiliated with this person (highly doubt it because of multiple errors and repetition of questions) without your permission but the reviews are very much fake and I just wanted you to be aware 💜

[@patricerichardson7686]

Very Good Advice Victoria!

[@L0vejenjen]

thankfully i was able to transfer into a coding job with my employer but the training was bare minimum and i lack confidence sometimes because ill ask questions and its like oh i sent an email on that or just sending a screen shot not really training

[@raunij7967]

Thank you Victoria for answering my email you’re the best. ❤

[@nanakimble50]

Thank You For This Video, you are awesome!!!!

[@fallonadams4414]

Do you think that purchasing Codify would be a good idea to get hands-on practice as a brand-new coder? I sit for my CPC exam in a few weeks and have been curious about this.

[@sandyfrey6144]

Can I highlight my books before testing?

[@danielledenisegutierrez7806]

I love your thorough descriptions and advice. In your opinion are the skills of a special education teacher transferable to the medical coding field?

[@ContempoCoding]

Absolutely, many skills from being a special education teacher can be transferable to the medical coding field. As a special education teacher, you're trained to be detail-oriented, patient, analytical, and have excellent problem-solving skills. Additionally, the ability to work with diverse individuals, manage documentation, and adhere to specific guidelines are qualities inherent in both roles. While the content knowledge is different, the foundational skills and discipline you've acquired as a teacher will undoubtedly give you a unique perspective and strength in the medical coding realm.

[@hannahlovett9614]

Do you have a video on tips to remove the A. I just got certified as a CPC and it is stressful to try to get the A remove?

[@ContempoCoding]

I do have a whole video on that! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWbWYqN-nNCJfa8si=soi36_zy7epjfbYT

[@casadelamarsh5890]

I’m terrified!

[@lisabonk3615]

Does Preppy provide your books? It says no books. So, do you purchase directly from AACP then? TIA

[@ContempoCoding]

Preppy offers eBooks, which is where the industry is moving towards. I actually just did an interview with the VP of Products and Services at the AAPC and she spoke about how they're piloting the eBooks for exams and it seems we're moving in that direction -- just not there quite yet. Preppy does offer you the option to purchase the paper books for examination purposes since we're still transitioning over the adoption of digital tools in the industry. If you have any further questions or concerns, reach out to [e-mail], they have an amazing customer service team that can help you out.

[@casadelamarsh5890]

Do you have advice on learning the anatomy & physiology.

[@LaraBell-v1c]

If you have prior medical certifications (like x-ray or nursing) should you put that right next to your name on a resume? Or do they only want to see coding certifications?

[@patricerichardson7686]

What do you do when!! You graduated coding school but still need to pass the CIC

[@leasha1117]

Girl!! Did you pass it?! The CIC exam was so hard for me. I decided to go with the CPC instead.

[@loulou2674]

I had a tough time findinga coding job since i didnt have any medical background. I finally got a receptionist job at my local clinic and im kinda bored, i really want to get a codin job. I asked my supervisor if geir was any coding jobs in the department im in, sadly no. Ive been at my receptionist job for almost 8 months, i get jealous of my friends that have coding jobs and they talk about them all the time and i just really want a coding job. Any tips?

[@ContempoCoding]

Thanks for reaching out. As you can imagine, I get many requests for job seeking advice so I’ve compiled all of my best tips in this KZbin playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLPHIVqUe1ntwWk43D_3ULgmATJ-XZ5Q52 I think you’ll find it very helpful. I am not currently offering individual assistance on job searching at this time and do not have any job leads to provide for you. Best of luck!

[@MrsHound]

Victoria, how can I become a paying member of your channel here? I am currently taking online classes to become a medical coder, and you’ve helped me drastically so I want to give back 💖

[@ContempoCoding]

Hi @Amykoch531 here is the link to join: kzbin.info/door/0oYq9y0MNh2-wJocXSaI3Ajoin

[@lb4660]

Are most employers requiring RHIT degree and certification first before accepting your coding cert? My local college has a Medical office administration degree but it's not CAHIIM accredited. Would the associate degree be worth anything? Hourly wage increase for having a degree or does it just help you get hired.

[@natiaamoani7846]

You can find an online accredited program like I did. I obtained my CCS before my RHIT, due to the coding experience. I'm currently using the same online program for my RHIA. It depends on where you want to work. If you want more money, I suggest getting the RHIT.

[@MariahCortes-i1i]

Is it necessary to be a medical graduate to enrol coding?

[@ritttun]

How come coding certificate exam cost few hundreds $$$ ? I’ve studied coding from preppy but I can’t afford taking exam because I’m stay at home mom.

[@ContempoCoding]

I completely understand your concerns about the cost of the AAPC CPC exam. Earning a coding certification can be a significant investment. The cost covers not only the creation and maintenance of the exam but also administrative expenses, testing locations, and ensuring the certification remains a recognized and respected credential in the healthcare industry. For those with financial constraints, there are sometimes discounts available during times like Black Friday. Remember, while the initial cost may seem high, the investment in your education and career can offer long-term benefits in terms of career advancement and earning potential. Your dedication as a stay-at-home mom and your pursuit of further education is commendable. I hope you'll find a solution that works for you, and I wish you all the best in your coding journey.

[@EnergySerenity]

I’m going to take my CPC but that doesn’t qualify me for outpatient?

[@ContempoCoding]

The CPC (Certified Professional Coder) certification primarily focuses on physician and professional services coding, which includes both office and outpatient settings. However, if you're looking to specifically code for hospital outpatient settings (like outpatient surgeries, ER visits, etc.), you might also consider the COC (Certified Outpatient Coder) certification, which is more specialized in that area. It's always a good idea to understand the specific needs and preferences of potential employers in your area. The CPC is a fantastic starting point and is widely recognized, but if outpatient hospital coding is your goal, you might want to explore the COC as well. Best of luck with your exam! 🍀📚

[@abbasjan5395]

Hey Victoria, I want to become freelance remote medical billing assistant, the course on your channel is of medical coding for begginers , is it the same thing as medical billing and that if its not outdated as its 2 years old?

[@ContempoCoding]

Medical billing and coding are not the same. Older videos may have some outdated codes if they've changed over the years, but the concept of medical coding does not change.

[@abbasjan5395]

thank you, how i could learn medical billing then coding please refer.@@ContempoCoding

[@beej5847]

Do you have any videos on how to use Invision for outpatient surgery ? For eligibility benefits and authorizations? Or book / courses recommendations please?@contemporary coding

[@MAGAMeg2025]

Thank you for your informative videos! This is somewhat unrelated: I am going to take my CPC exam next month. I noticed that new changes roll out on Oct. 1. Will this affect the test? Thanks!😊

[@ContempoCoding]

The exams get a refresh every January 1st to reflect the current calendar year's code sets. So, even though ICD-10-CM codes might update on October 1st, those changes won't show up in the exam until the new year rolls around. 🗓️ Feel free to use last year's books, but just know you might be at a slight disadvantage. For the full scoop, check out AAPC's official guidance: www.aapc.com/certification/faq.aspx " What year's books should I use? All AAPC exams are based on the current calendar year’s code sets, so we strongly suggest you use the current year’s books. The previous calendar year’s books may be used on an exam, but you would be at obvious disadvantage doing so. The upcoming year’s books are not allowed for exam use. The exams are updated every January for the new code sets."

[@MAGAMeg2025]

@@ContempoCoding Thank you! ☺️

[@laurarice-mr7gy]

Hello, Do you teach one on one Medical Coding and Billing? Is there a way to reach you through email?

[@ContempoCoding]

As you can imagine, I receive a lot of requests for individual tutoring or one-on-one assistance, but I'm afraid I don't have the time to offer that right now. I'm currently working full-time on my KZbin channel and other projects, and I don't have the bandwidth to take on any additional commitments. I know this may be disappointing, but I hope you understand. I appreciate your continued support, and I hope you continue to enjoy my videos! If you are interested in learning medical billing and coding, I would check out medicalcodingmasterclass.com.

[@Triumphboy]

There is very less pay package in india for this Field

[@ContempoCoding]

It's true that one of the main reasons medical coding is outsourced to India is due to the cost savings for companies. Often, labor costs can be lower in countries like India as compared to the U.S., leading businesses to outsource certain functions. It's essential, however, to understand the broader economic context and consider the cost of living and other variables when comparing salaries across different countries. Regardless, every coder, no matter where they are, deserves fair compensation for their expertise and hard work.

[@Triumphboy]

@@ContempoCoding labour cost is high than my salary in my company, very disappointed for this.

[@raunij7967]

Hello Victoria I’ve subscribed to you for a very long time I need advice how do I email you? I also follow you on LinkedIn.

[@ContempoCoding]

Thank you so much for your support and for being a long-time subscriber. You can reach out to me at [e-mail]. However, please understand that due to the high volume of emails and messages I receive, I'm not always able to provide individual assistance. I truly appreciate your understanding and patience.

[@raunij7967]

@@ContempoCoding no it’s not individual assistance it’s just a question. I’ll email now thank you.

[@raunij7967]

@@ContempoCoding the subject line says CCS & CPC