MEDICAL INSURANCE SPECIALIST
Certificate of Proficiency: 28.5 units
Associate in Science Degree in Medical Insurance Specialist: 60 Units

As insurance companies and health care agencies require more highly detailed records of services provided to patients, the need for medical billing and coding professionals has grown rapidly.
The Medical Insurance Specialist does billing and/or procedural and diagnostic coding.  Training, experience and continuing education increase advancement in medical billing and coding.  Medical Insurance Specialists can work for physicians, clinics, hospitals and for benefits departments.

Medical Coding
Medical coders maintain patients' records using a universally recognized coding system (ICD-9 CM) to ensure compliance with federal regulations and insurance requirements.
Medical Billing
Medical billing achieves reimbursement for medical services.

TYPICAL DUTIES
Chart analysis
Completes and submits insurance claims
Evaluates, corrects and resubmits denied claims
Traces unpaid claims
Stays current with insurance regulations, policies and codes
Translates medical terminology into procedural and diagnostic codes
May maintain general ledger
May receive patient payment and handle collection of payments
Data entry

SKILLS & TALENTS
Detail-oriented
Resourceful
Imaginative
Likes to help others
Enjoys working alone and independently

ENTRY LEVEL SALARY RANGE:
$15 - $20 per hour depending on geographical location and medical specialty.