Become a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant and a Medical Billing and Coding Professional
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations; this increase is expected to result in about 2 million new jobs over the decade. In addition to new jobs from growth, opportunities arise from the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently. About 1.9 million openings each year, on average, are projected to come from growth and replacement needs.
This 100 percent online course will prepare you for a career in healthcare as a medical administrative assistant and a medical biller and coder. By course completion, you will be ready to pass the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) national certification exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association and receive a voucher that covers the fee of the exam. You will also be able to choose a voucher for the medical billing and coding certification that best aligns with your interests and career goals. You will have three medical billing and coding certifications to choose from: Certified Professional Coder (CPC, AAPC), Certified Coding Associate (CCA, AHIMA), or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS, NHA).
Job Outlook for Medical Administrative Assistant
- Medical administrative assistants combine two valuable skill sets in professions that are growing quickly, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. BLS data indicates job opportunities for medical assistants will grow by 16 percent overall by 2031. According to BLS, certified medical administrative assistants earn around $37,190 per year on average.
- According to a recent American Academy of Professional Coders Salary Survey results, non-certified medical records specialists average $46,321 per year, while certified medical records specialists average $56,290 annually—17.7 percent more than their noncertified colleagues. By combining these two disciplines, you have the potential to both raise your income expectancy and increase your marketability in the industry.
Medical Administrative Assistant FAQ
What Do Medical Administrative Assistants Do?
According to NHA, medical administrative assistants primarily work in the “front office” of a medical practice or healthcare facility. Their duties may include coordinating practice correspondence, maintaining files, and scheduling appointments.
Do Medical Administrative Assistants Need Certification?
The healthcare environment operates on the basis of professionalism, precision, and dedication to patient welfare. Medical assistant certification may be required for many jobs. Earning a CMAA establishes a medical assistant as a caring, responsible professional who has undergone a study and assessment program to validate their credentials.
In What Facilities Do Medical Administrative Assistants Work?
Medical assistants commonly work in medical practices, such as physicians’ offices, outpatient clinics, and other healthcare facilities, according to the BLS.
What Is the Difference Between Being a Medical Assistant and a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist?
Essentially, these are two distinct skill sets used within a healthcare setting. However, the responsibilities of a medical assistant may include medical billing, medical coding, or both. Similarly, medical billing and coding specialists may have their own job titles or may have their title combined with a medical assistant or medical administrative professional designation.
Why Should Medical Assistants Learn Medical Billing and Coding?
The healthcare field offers one of the leading areas of opportunities for career growth today. Within healthcare, specialized medical assistants are among the most in-demand professionals. Matching office administration skills with medical billing and coding opens up more opportunities in both general healthcare administration and specialized medical services.
What Are the Requirements for a Medical Billing and Coding Career?
Entry-level positions typically require completion of a certificate and passing one of the certification exams or an associate degree program in medical billing and coding. Additionally, medical billing and coding professionals must understand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
What Is the Difference Between Certification Exams (CPC, CCA, and CBCS)?
Obtaining a CPC, CCA, or CBCS certification implies that an individual has met competencies in the field of medical billing and coding. Certification is invaluable to the student’s career goals. Students have an opportunity to make confident, informed decisions about the national certification they prefer. Please see certification descriptions below: