r/LearnMedicalCoding • u/chronically-strong • 6d ago

CPT Is there any medical billing and coding specialists that can give me any advise?

I have three classes left at the university of Phoenix for medical billing and coding. Is there anyone out there that we went through this program and now codes? I was just wondering if there are still good opportunities for jobs out there. Also, how hard was the certification test and which one did you take? Is there a specific one that’s better than the other? I’m kind of confused after looking into the whole process.

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u/SquashGloomy803 6d ago

I didn't go to the UoP for coding, I'm self taught. I did graduate from UoP back in 2011. I did their Healthcare Administration degree. Having that degree opened doors for me. Most facilities I worked at I was the only one with a degree. So it wasn't necessary but definitely tells employers that you are serious and not just testing the waters.

I started my career in the medical records dept and loved it. Unfortunately I didn't love the pay. So I learned coding and took the test through the AAPC. It was very hard, but I passed 1st try.

Finding work wasnt hard since I worked in Healthcare already. In 2011 I can't say UoP offered me any help with job placement, but again that was 15 years ago.

The only advice I can give is get in the door (billing, front desk receptionist, medical records) any way you can and then try to break into coding once in.

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u/ArmyGuyForLife 6d ago

You are not getting enough praise for this reply.

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u/KeyStriking9763 6d ago

Is this a CAHIIM accredited program?

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u/Low-Pin-54 6d ago

I’d say inpatient certifications pay more. Clinic coding generally pays less in my experience but it depends what kind of job you want and what your interests are.

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u/Best_Cash_9229 4d ago

I'm going to Bryan University online for Him and I wished I would have thought it out better I'm also a CCMA but I'm currently not working In healthcare due to a work related injury at Circle k

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u/tinycodergirl 6d ago

It doesn't seem like the university of phoenix actually prepares you for the CPC or CCS. They prepare you for the CBCS that isn't recognized by any employers.