I'm a newly certified CPC-A looking for a remote coding position. I have 4 years a medical office experience. I started in scheduling the moved to customer support in billing, reviewing patient accounts for errors and correcting them. This includes reviewing for coding errors before sending to the coding department. Does anyone have suggestions on finding a remote entry level coding position. I've been rejected from all the applications I have filled out
-
If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ & read the forum rules. To view all forums, post or create a new thread, you must be an AAPC Member. If you are a member and have already registered for member area and forum access, you can log in by clicking here. If you've forgotten your username or password use our password reminder tool. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below..
Wiki CPC-A looking for remote coding postion
- Thread starter lclane89@gmail.com
- Start date
If you have experience reviewing coding errors, you may qualify to have your -A removed, which is a big step.
That being said, my personal opinion is that newbie coders will do best in an environment where they regularly interact and can be mentored by more experienced coders. While it is certainly possible for that to be remote, it is not the workflow for many remote companies.
Even though I was not mentored by coders, my onsite interactions with MDs, RNs, PAs, NPs, other billers, etc. earlier in my career surely lead me to the knowledge I have today. There is no way I would have gained the same knowledge in the same timeframe in a remote environment.
There are literally hundreds of posts here from CPC-As asking why no one will hire them, even if not remote. I've probably personally replied to this same type of question at least a dozen times.
Almost all experienced coders and hiring managers recommend the same basic things to new CPC-As. 1) Get your foot in the door with any position at a company that employs coders. Don't only consider a coding position. 2) Get your -A removed by working as a biller, authorization specialist, etc. (which I think you already have) 3) Network at your employer and outside your employer. Make buddies with the coding department if possible. 4) Make sure your cover letter and resume are spot on. Have a few customized for the different types of positions you are applying for. 5) Practice your interview skills.
I know if I was looking to hire, I would certainly consider someone within my organization who has already proved themselves in another position above someone from outside.
Good luck!
That being said, my personal opinion is that newbie coders will do best in an environment where they regularly interact and can be mentored by more experienced coders. While it is certainly possible for that to be remote, it is not the workflow for many remote companies.
Even though I was not mentored by coders, my onsite interactions with MDs, RNs, PAs, NPs, other billers, etc. earlier in my career surely lead me to the knowledge I have today. There is no way I would have gained the same knowledge in the same timeframe in a remote environment.
There are literally hundreds of posts here from CPC-As asking why no one will hire them, even if not remote. I've probably personally replied to this same type of question at least a dozen times.
Almost all experienced coders and hiring managers recommend the same basic things to new CPC-As. 1) Get your foot in the door with any position at a company that employs coders. Don't only consider a coding position. 2) Get your -A removed by working as a biller, authorization specialist, etc. (which I think you already have) 3) Network at your employer and outside your employer. Make buddies with the coding department if possible. 4) Make sure your cover letter and resume are spot on. Have a few customized for the different types of positions you are applying for. 5) Practice your interview skills.
I know if I was looking to hire, I would certainly consider someone within my organization who has already proved themselves in another position above someone from outside.
Good luck!
wcurzon
New
Hi, lclane89! Where are you located? My company will most likely be hiring in spring, but for candidates who live in Nebraska, Iowa, Washington, and Utah. Even though it’s for a remote position, those are the states the business is licensed in.
I currently reside in Richmond VA.
amyjph
True Blue
I agree with Christine 100% and many of us have responded to this question repeatedly. If you use the search feature of the forums here there is already so much great advice. Take a look at that for help. 
I also agree that you probably qualify to get the A removed. Many folks don't realize that you can get it taken off with experience by following the steps AAPC states, not just the time requirement. https://www.aapc.com/apprentice/applied-experience.aspx
I also agree that you probably qualify to get the A removed. Many folks don't realize that you can get it taken off with experience by following the steps AAPC states, not just the time requirement. https://www.aapc.com/apprentice/applied-experience.aspxI agree with much of what Christine and Amy suggested.
Additionally, I see from the resume that you posted here that you currently work for Ensemble. I'd suggest networking with the coding department - many members of my chapter work remote with Ensemble, and they enjoy it.
I see that their Coding Specialist I position includes CPC-A as an acceptable credential. (Though as was already said, I think you may be able to get your A removed if you have experience using knowledge of codes to work denials.)
I'm assuming, of course, that you have tried applying within your company already. (If you haven't, definitely do that!) If you've applied and that hasn't worked out, then I'd encourage you to find out any feedback on what you can do to be eligible for a coding role.
Even if you don't want to stay with that organization forever and ever, getting that first coding role and getting experience under your belt will help open doors as you apply for future coding roles.
Good luck!
Additionally, I see from the resume that you posted here that you currently work for Ensemble. I'd suggest networking with the coding department - many members of my chapter work remote with Ensemble, and they enjoy it.
I see that their Coding Specialist I position includes CPC-A as an acceptable credential. (Though as was already said, I think you may be able to get your A removed if you have experience using knowledge of codes to work denials.)
I'm assuming, of course, that you have tried applying within your company already. (If you haven't, definitely do that!) If you've applied and that hasn't worked out, then I'd encourage you to find out any feedback on what you can do to be eligible for a coding role.
Even if you don't want to stay with that organization forever and ever, getting that first coding role and getting experience under your belt will help open doors as you apply for future coding roles.
Good luck!
roshellegreen
New
Congrats on passing the test! That’s a huge accomplishment! I can definitely relate with what you’re experiencing regarding the rejections. I was discouraged last week and almost gave up my credentials. Instead, I called a career specialist with AAPC who was super encouraging. I know it’s hard but try not to get discouraged. UnitedHealth Group hires CPC-A’s as clinical auditors for OptumInsight. The position is called Senior Recovery/Resolution Analyst. I was hired 3 weeks after I passed the exam. It pays up to $32hr if that’s something you’re ok with. Let me know if you want more info on the role before applying. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and get your “A” removed because you utilize your coding books daily. They don’t mind what state you’re in, will send equipment and provide an extra line of internet for you. Centene is hiring Risk Adjustment Coders and you don’t need a certification so they will consider you as well. Elevance (formerly Anthem) hires CPC-A’s too.
AmberCua
New
Forgive me for jumping on this bandwagon, but I can see the forum is full of this particular question. I would like more info on this role, and possibly where to apply for it. Thank you
Last edited:
alfox
Guest
Hello, what is the name of your company and where can I apply?
mhenderson4
New
Hello Alfox, I have been having the same problem with finding employment. While I agree with csperoni about taking any position that helps get your foot in the door (like billing and other departments), I have tried that and it hasn't helped. I had help with my resume and EVERYONE still wants the experience , EVEN entry level. I don't have any in the medical field. I was often told to tailor my resume to job descriptions and even leave out the jobs that don't pertain to coding/billing. I have taught special/regular education, completed medical assisting, phlebotomy, and done home health. Those were removed from my resume. I am feeling like my hard work is going down the drain. Does your company have any CA locations? I'm willing to start at the beginning.