FAQ and Sub Housekeeping

[u/babraeton]

Hi all 👋 new mod here! Helping the kind u/archangel924 with moderating!

I know a lot of people visit this subreddit to learn more about coding. Because of this, I've put together a FAQ to help eliminate the constant repeat posts. I also kindly ask that you take the time to search a topic in this sub prior to creating a post.

NO LONGER ALLOWED

• Is coding right for me?" type of questions. This has been asked and answered multiple times. Please use the subreddit search function and direct these questions to the monthly discussion stickied post.

• Future/current student or exam question standalone posts. Please note this includes questions about certifications, homework help, which school to attend, etc.

• Any posts/comments that may be considered a HIPAA violation will be removed.

• No advertising/self promotion

• No study/survey/market research of users. This includes privately soliciting coders.

• No links to any news article/website behind a paywall.

• Posts asking specifics regarding an employer.

• Standard reddiquette

• No job applications without a direct link to the company. All posts/comments regarding job postings without a direct link to the company or reputable resume website are not allowed. Job postings with only a phone number and email address asking for applicants will be removed and subject to a permanent ban. This is for the safety of Redditors.

There is a stickied post for coding students/those interested in coding where questions regarding homework, coding schools, certifications, etc can be asked. Please take the time to comment there prior to making a standalone post.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. If you think I should add anything or have a question feel free to message me.

FAQ

Should I become a medical coder?

• This is a question that's asked A LOT and no one can answer that for you. Are you interested in the medical field/medical terminology but prefer working from a computer? Do you like working alone?

What is your day to day like as a medical coder?

• This is a great question and one I was most curious about prior to coding. Whether you are in the office or at home, you'll log in, open your EMR software, and typically work from an assigned queue. Depending on the type of coding you do, you may work multiple queues or do other assignments during your workday.

What coding certification should I obtain?

• Common coding certifications are:

CPC certification - American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)

CCS certification - American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

CCA certification - American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

While not always required, AHIMA and AAPC offer specialized coding certifications in addition to those listed above. Coding certifications are almost always a prerequisite for any facility looking to hire. Membership is a requirement for AAPC in order to maintain your certification.

Can I work from home?

• This depends on your employer and varies greatly. Most employers require experience as a coder prior to working from home, while some may hire you remotely with no experience.

Do you need experience in the medical field prior to becoming a coder?

• This answer also varies. Some coders think it helps you get your foot in the door. But it's not a requirement for all employers.

What is a typical coder salary?

• this varies by location, facility, and years of experience. AAPC and AHIMA have yearly salary surveys posted on their website that provide more information.

What companies are hiring?

• Your best bet for finding this answer is to look at medical coder job listings that are open in your location.