Medical Coder

To be a successful Medical Coder you should…

• have a high degree of accuracy
• have a working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
• have an ability for problem solving and analysis
• have the ability to work at one station for extended periods of time
• work well under pressure and be able to observe deadlines
• have the ability to communicate orally and in writing
• pay close attention to detail

What will my job be like?

Technicians who specialize in coding are called health information coders, medical record coders, coder/abstractors, or coding specialists.

A medical coder uses a classification system to assign code numbers and letters to each symptom, diagnosis, disease, procedure, and operation that appears in the patient’s chart. These codes are used for insurance reimbursement, research, health planning analysis, and to make clinical decisions.

Where could I work?

Medical coders usually work in hospitals.

Other workplace settings:

• Health Maintenance Organizations
• Insurance Companies
• Physicians’ Offices
• Self-employed

What is the average annual salary?

$45,200

What is the future of this career?

The BLS reports that overall employment of medical records and health information specialists is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

A two year associate degree with a curriculum that includes medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology is recommended. Basic coding courses offered by vocational schools may last up to 12 weeks. A home-study course is available through the American Health Information Management Association. It is a self-paced course and usually takes 24-36 months to complete. Some on-the-job training is also offered.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• American Institute, West Hartford
• Asnuntuck Community College, Enfield
• Gateway Community College, East Hartford
• Goodwin College, East Hartford
• Housatonic Community College, Bridgeport
• Middlesex Community College, Middletown
• Naugatuck Valley Community College, Waterbury
• Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Winsted
• Norwalk Community College, Norwalk
• Porter and Chester Institute, Bridgeport
• Quinebaug Valley Community College, Danielson
• Valley Medical Institute, Bridgeport

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?

American Health Information Management Association
233 N. Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor
Chicago, IL   60601-5809
(312) 233-1100
www.ahima.org