Medical Coding and Billing in South Carolina

Those who have experience in the health care industry of South Carolina know just how many diverse needs professionals in this field must meet. South Carolina is home to large cities with a broad variety of care providers, but it also has many rural communities that may be 30 minutes or more from the nearest hospital or clinic. Regardless, the state government is expected to implement Affordable Care Act standards throughout the state to ensure that all residents have access to great medical care.

This is such an important part of the quality of life in South Carolina that the state government has developed a dedicated workforce to look at rural South Carolina health care (Statehouse Report, 2015). The findings of this workforce should be used to improve the quality of care, accessibility to care, and cost of care in South Carolina.

Are you interested in using your career to strengthen this industry? Find out how you can become a coding and billing technician with medical coding and billing programs in South Carolina.

What to Expect in South Carolina Medical Coding and Billing Training

Before you begin your education in the field of medical billing and coding, you should learn about what you’re getting into. In this field, you learn about different coding and billing languages, including ICD and CPT. Each of these systems includes thousands of codes, so you should be ready to hit the flashcards and memorize many of the most commonly used codes. In addition, attention to detail is very important. Being one number off in your coding can cause significant problems for patients, doctors, and insurance companies.

You can get the training and background information you need in South Carolina diploma, certificate, and Associate’s degree programs, all listed below. They often require courses like Pharmacology in Medical Coding and Billing, ICD-CM Coding, ICD-PCS Coding, and Electronic Health Records.

By completing clinical rotations or even an internship, you can start building a strong professional network in your community.

Of course, school costs money. However, you can minimize your out-of-pocket expenses by looking for scholarships and proving your dedication to this field. One local association with health care scholarships is the South Carolina Public Health Association.

Working as a Medical Billing and Coding Professional in South Carolina

Since your courses should mostly be taught by experienced medical coding and billing technicians, you should hear a bit about AAPC before you complete your program. AAPC runs comprehensive certification programs in this field. Since this organization is recognized by name all over the country, you may find that earning your certification in coding or billing has a positive effect on your career and your professional growth.

South Carolina has an extremely strong job outlook, making this a great place to look for job openings and meet a growing need. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net anticipates a 24% increase in job openings (2015). This job growth is 2% above the national average (O*Net, 2015). Currently, the average salary for a medical records technician in this state is $32,600 per year (O*Net, 2015). You may find that your salary potential increases as you gain experience, learn about coding for different medical specialties, and build a reputation in your health care community.

Whether you want to work in an urban or rural setting, the health care industry of South Carolina can use your skills. Find out what education options you have by reaching out to medical coding and billing programs in South Carolina.