New Year New Career: Medical Records Technician
Do you want to work in healthcare but don’t have your college degree? With the right training and certification, you can fill a niche role that makes a world of difference in patient care. Medical records technicians, sometimes referred to as a medical coder or electronic health records specialists, are vital in the healthcare industry. A medical records technician prepares new patient charts, ensures medical records are accurate, reviews patient records, and more. Because of this, they’re in demand. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranked medical records technician as #9 on its list of “25 Best Jobs that Don’t Require a College Degree,” #12 in “Best Health Care Support Jobs” and on the “The 100 Best Jobs” list.
This is a position has potential for advancement, below average stress, and an above average level of flexibility. And you can learn how to use an electronic health record (EHR) system and get your certification in as little as six months. If you’re ready for a career in healthcare where you help others and make a difference in the quality of care, here’s why you should start training to become a medical records technician:
There will be high growth in medical records technician jobs
According to U.S. Census data, the population of the United States is aging. This means more medical services will be needed as well as more healthcare professionals, including medical records technicians who are responsible for accurately recording all services provided.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that an additional 27,800 new jobs will be needed in this profession between 2016 and 2026 which equates to a growth of 14 percent. This growth is much faster than average, and unemployment for those in this profession is currently at only 1.9 percent. Entering this career with the right training can almost ensure your success of getting a job.
This specialized role can command great salary with experience
If job security and industry stability weren’t enough, medical records technicians also make a great salary. You can expect to earn nearly $40,000 per year as the median salary in the profession is currently $38,040. With a little experience in the field, you could make even more. Top earners currently make nearly $63,000 per year.
Medical records technicians report great job satisfaction
It’s important to like what you do on a daily basis—especially since most Americans work into their 60s. A recent survey found that most medical records technicians said they were satisfied with their jobs
It does require a high attention to detail and can carry some stress. However, there are opportunities to move up and take on additional responsibilities with better titles and salary. The job also has above average flexibility and often includes options to work remotely giving you a better work life balance.
You’re part of a profession that helps others
As a medical records technician, you’ll be responsible for completing medical coding or assigning the appropriate diagnosis and procedure codes. This helps doctors and nurses to quickly and accurately treat patients as well as bill for services and receive reimbursement. It also helps public health officials conduct research and track and monitor diseases.
While you don’t need a 4-year degree, you will need to complete training and earn a certification to stay competitive. You can find great online courses that will help you with medical terminology, basic anatomy, and coding systems.
Some of these programs even prepare you for professional certifications such as the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist, Certified Professional Coder, or Certified Billing and Coding Specialist. It’s time to take a chance.
2019 could be the year you enter a great career in healthcare with a job you love! Are you ready to learn
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