What is the difference between a medical coder and medical biller?

A common question I get is "What is the difference between a medical coder and medical biller?" There are 2 main differences. (To see a video about this instead, GO HERE).

The first difference is the job itself. A medical coder reads reports and translates those reports into codes, so the insurance company will pay the claim. A medical biller submits the claim, and does the follow up if there are any issues.

The second difference is the training required. To get a job as a medical coder, you'll need to be certified by either AAPC or AHIMA. To become a biller, it is not required to have a certification, so it is more of an entry-level position. Now if if you work at a small practice or office--the coder and biller may be the same person, but usually it is not.

Many people who want to become coders start out doing billing and work their way up to a medical coding position. Other jobs in the revenue cycle that do not require certification are people who do the preauthorizations and/or scheduling.

If you're interested in becoming a medical coder and want to learn more, GO HERE to read more about my next medical coding training course.