What does a medical assistant do?
Medical assistants work in healthcare facilities performing routine clinical skills and administrative tasks. Administrative duties may include, but are not limited to, greeting patients, answering phones, updating and filing patients’ medical records, completing insurance forms, and handling billing. Clinical duties may include, but are not limited to, recording vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, assisting the physician during procedures, giving vaccinations, and performing basic laboratory tests.
What is the difference between the certificate and the degree?
The degree requirement is 64 credits and the certificate requirement is 37 credits. Both programs require the same amount of externship time. Having an associate degree has advantages in the workplace. Employers may require a degree for advancement opportunities. The choice depends on your long-term career goals. A medical assistant with a degree may earn more. However, there is minimal data available on the salary difference between the two options. If undecided on which program, obtain the certificate first, find employment, and continue taking the general education requirements to reach your degree goal.
What is a Medical Coding and Reimbursement Specialist?
A coding specialist is a type of health information technician who analyzes and codes medical record information for reimbursement purposes. Coding specialists assign codes to each diagnosis and procedure through the use of both manual and electronic classification systems. Medical insurance programs reimburse for medical care based on medical coding. Coding specialists may use several coding systems for hospital, physician, and ambulatory settings.
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