Medical billers – commonly called medical records and health information technicians – and medical coders can expect faster than average job growth through 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase is due to a rise in the number of medical tests, procedures and treatments performed on our aging population. With baby boomers making up a large portion of this population, health-related problems are high. Jobs are also on the rise due to the increased use of electronic health records management – technologically skilled workers will be needed to handle these responsibilities and more. Therefore, candidates who show strong understanding of technology and computer software will rank highly.

Medical billers and coders compile patients' medical history, symptoms, examination results, diagnostic tests, treatment methods and more. They organize data by ensuring quality, accessibility, accuracy and security, regularly clarifying information with coworkers. Coders also assign designated codes to each diagnosis or procedure through a classification system, determining how much the healthcare provider will be reimbursed if the patient is covered by Medicaid, Medicare or other insurance programs. There are several coding systems – at Dawn Career Institute, you can learn ICD-9 and CPT!

In 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 39% of medical billers and coders worked in hospitals, though they are also needed in physicians' offices, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers and home healthcare services. In addition, as one of the few healthcare jobs that don't require any direct patient care, some medical billers and coders can work from the comfort of their own homes. In office environments, however, most work a standard 40-hour week with some occasional overtime.

You don't officially have to have certification, but because of the number of medical billers and coders who are certified, it's necessary to keep up with the competition when applying for jobs. Quite a few organizations offer credentialing exams, some of which require experience in a work setting. In addition, most certifications have to be renewed periodically through reexamination and/or continuing education.