Medical Billing and Coding Schools in West Virginia (Programs & Salary Information)

Maybe you want to build a new career in West Virginia, so consider medical billing and coding as an option.

You may first need to learn more about this branch of the industry, so read in the article below.

What is Medical Billing?

Medical billing is used by medical staff to receive payment for their services.

First, an invoice has to be created, which is then sent to the insurance company and the client.

To be able to do this, you will need to know specific terms.

You will also need to know how insurance functions, and how reimbursement works as well.

What is Medical Coding?

In medical coding, you will have to turn a collection of data into shortcodes.

These shortcodes are used all over the medical industry in various ways.

You should know that each code is to be used and organized differently than another.

This means you will have to learn the codes required in the West Virginia state.

These codes are CPT, ICD-10-CMN, and HCPCS Level II

The codes are used to recognize medical products, services, and ailments.

Getting the Appropriate Education and Certification

You are not required by law to get certified in West Virginia.

But, you should consider certification is this is a quite competitive field.

This means that you will have higher chances to get a job with a certification.

The certifications for billing and coding are the CPB and the CPC.

You can choose to only get a certification for one of the branches or for both.

If you opt for both, you can get more job duties and a better salary after you get hired.

The certifications for both billing and coding are managed by the AAPC.

This is the nation’s largest medical institution of this type.

You can only get a certification after you attend and pass an exam.

This exam usually has about 150 questions on billing or coding.

In order to develop your skills and pass the exam, you need to train.

This is possible by joining a training program and completing it.

Unlike in other professions of the medical field, you don’t need to attend a long program in billing and coding.

Most programs have a duration of 8 months.

However, if you choose to get an associate’s degree, your training will last about 2 years.

In Washington, the schools providing such training programs can be seen below.

Some schools provide training online, not only in person.

You can also have the option to get hired right after your program if your chosen school offers job placement.

Because medical billing and coding are administrative jobs, you can also work from home.

Salary expectations in West Virginia

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects growth in medical coding and billing jobs.

Jobs are expected to increase with 13% from 2016 until 2026.

While the prognosis is good, you will probably earn more in a larger city.

Regional Salary in West Virginia

In West Virginia, such cities include Martinsburg, Wheeling, Morgantown, Weirton, and Fairmont.

Of course, how much money you will make also depends on how much experience you have.

If you are just starting, you might have a lower salary than billers and coders with more experience.

Other Info About Medical Billing and Coding

Once you get certified, all you need to do is search for a facility that is hiring.

In West Virginia, some of the largest employers are:

• Bluefield Regional Medical Center
• Cabell Huntington Hospital
• Davis Memorial Hospital

These facilities provide options such as disability benefits, paid vacations, paid time off, dental and vision insurance.

You will also benefit from several retirement plans, professional assistance, and flexible spending accounts.

Medical Billing and Coding Classes by City

Medical Billing and Coding Classes by State