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Looking for Medical Coder Jobs? What to Know About Health Information Management
Think healthcare is all about stethoscopes and bedside manner? Well think again! If you are a healthcare professional with a knack for organization, a passion for data, and a desire to make a difference beyond the bedside then look no further than the world of Health Information Management (HIM). Making the switch to HIM or Medical Coder jobs can allow you as a healthcare professional to unlock exciting new opportunities in healthcare, while also complimenting your existing skills. In this blog we will explain what the HIM field is, reasons you should consider making the switch to HIM job, and how to become a HIM professional with the help of a staffing agency, like Amergis Staffing.
What is HIM?
HIM is a vital part of the healthcare process that helps ensures the accurate, secure, and efficient management of patient health information. From coding diagnoses and procedures to confirming data accuracy and privacy, HIM professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Here is a look at some of the duties of a HIM professional:
- Medical coding: One of the most important duties of HIM professionals is deciphering medical records and assigning the correct codes to diagnose illnesses, procedures, and medications.
- Data analysis: HIM professionals mine mountains of health data to identify trends, track healthcare quality, and inform clinical decisions.
- Privacy protection: HIM professionals are also tasked with safeguarding sensitive patient data.
- Technology management: Implementing and maintaining electronic health records (EHRs) is also an important duty of HIM professionals, which helps to keep sensitive hospital data flowing smoothly and safely.
Why is HIM Important?
The duties of HIM professionals are not just vital to the smooth operation of a healthcare facility, but also to protecting patient data and the delivery of quality care. Here is a breakdown of why HIM professionals play an important part in healthcare:
- Enhances accuracy: Accurate and readily available patient information is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and medication management for healthcare providers.
- Improves efficiency: Streamlined data flow eliminates redundancies, facilitates communication, and optimizes healthcare processes.
- Supports research and innovation: Health data fuels medical research, leading to new treatments, technologies, and improved healthcare delivery.
- Protects patient privacy: Proper data management safeguards sensitive information and upholds patient trust.
Why Search for a Medical Coder Job?
Becoming a health information management (HIM) professional can be a rewarding and impactful career choice for many reasons. Here are some factors to consider:
- High demand: The need for skilled HIM professionals is soaring, driven by the increasing adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the growing emphasis on data-driven healthcare.
- Diverse career options: From clinical coding to data analysis, compliance to informatics, the HIM field offers a wide range of exciting and specialized job opportunities.
- Make a difference: Your work directly impacts patient care, ensuring accurate diagnoses, efficient billing, and improved clinical decision-making.
- Transfer your clinical expertise: If you already work as a healthcare professional but are looking for a change of pace, then your understanding of medical terminology and procedures will be considered highly valued in the HIM field since you’ll readily grasp complex health records and can navigate coding systems more efficiently.
- Expand your horizons: Working in HIM allows you to discover the intersection of healthcare and technology, while being at the forefront of healthcare innovations like using data analysis to improve patient care.
How to Become a HIM professional
Once you have decided that you are ready to embark on a thrilling journey as a HIM professional, it is important to understand what paths you can take to achieve that goal. Here some important steps to take if you are hoping to find medical coder jobs:
- Take training courses: The two major associations offering HIM training courses are the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). You can find training courses from both of these associations to help entry-level professionals who are just getting start or those who are looking to advance in the HIM field.
- Get certified: Explore accredited HIM programs and pursue relevant certifications. The most common types of medical coding certifications that professionals receive are Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Certified Professional Coder (CPC). These certifications all require professionals to pass a rigorous exam that demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology and coding guidelines.
- Network and build connections: Connect with experienced HIM professionals, attend industry events, and participate in online communities to enhance your learning and expand your professional network.
- Embrace continuous learning: The HIM field is constantly evolving. Stay updated on new technologies, regulations, and best practices to keep your skills sharp and relevant.
Remember, the path to HIM mastery is a continuous learning adventure. Embrace new technologies, stay updated on regulations, and never stop honing your skills. With dedication and the right tools, you can become a vital cog in the healthcare machine, ensuring smooth data flow and ultimately, improving patient care for generations to come.
Partner with Amergis Healthcare Staffing to Find Your Next Medical Coder Job
As a healthcare staffing company with over 30 years of experience, Amergis Staffing has the knowledge to help you find the perfect fit in the HIM field. We have a network of offices across 32 states, and a team of dedicated expert recruiters ready to serve you at any moment. This means you will have a dedicated point of contact during your job search, who will get to understand your unique needs, and how to meet them before, during, and after your job assignment.
In addition, Amergis Staffing offers employees a wide range of benefits, including:
- Competitive pay with weekly paychecks
- Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- 401(k) Savings Plans
- Awards and recognition opportunities
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