Wiki CPC- A need jobs

[D.Holmes]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

 

[Lakindrab85]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

 

[Lakindrab85]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

I totally agree with you. It’s so many people signing up for this course, but they going to be upset when they find out how hard it is to land a job in this field. I have my certification and two degrees and I still can’t get anyone to notice me. I wasted my time and money too!! I’m very disappointed.

 

[toriash@comcast.net]

I totally agree with you. It’s so many people signing up for this course, but they going to be upset when they find out how hard it is to land a job in this field. I have my certification and two degrees and I still can’t get anyone to notice me. I wasted my time and money too!! I’m very disappointed.

I agree. It's super frustrating. So much time and energy spent studying and getting the certification and can't get a job without experience. How are we supposed to get experience without a job? I feel like it was a waste of time and money. And, instructors are very misleading re: job opportunities. I have spoken with 3 coding managers at my facility, and they all say they won't hire without 2-5 years experience.

 

[Lakindrab85]

I agree. It's super frustrating. So much time and energy spent studying and getting the certification and can't get a job without experience. How are we supposed to get experience without a job? I feel like it was a waste of time and money. And, instructors are very misleading re: job opportunities. I have spoken with 3 coding managers at my facility, and they all say they won't hire without 2-5 years experience.

That’s what I don’t understand everyone that’s been in the field for so long had to start somewhere too, so they need to think about that. We all have to start from the bottom and work our way up. It’s definitely misleading and they don’t know what a person is capable of doing unless they give someone a chance, just because they been in the field for years don’t mean they know it all either. No one is perfect and we learn something new everyday. These companies be surprise on what us new coders can do, but I just say to myself they missing out just because they don’t want to take out the time to train someone. Sometimes people fail to realize how they even got the position they’re in, they were trained. To you new coders, hang in there I know it’s easier said than done, but don’t give up. We worked hard for our certification and earned it.

 

[stoicinflux3]

I am in the same boat with over 20 years of Pre-hospital and clinical Medic work, both civilian and military/contracting overseas. I even looked for "Entry-Level" postings, most say 0-1 year experience, and they would take both CPC-A or CPC. What a joke! The AAPC has no answers which indicates clearly they governing body only cares to pump out as many graduates of their programs, but caters to only those already in the field. They just want $$$$. I immediately took the Practicode "apprentice" course and that did not matter either. It just doesn't make sense that AAPC propaganda claims Medical Coding is growing at rates up to 36% per year (or whatever it is now) and they are so proud to have a worldwide standard now. They make you think you have a chance, but given the amount of student graduates printed on the back of the monthly reviews, I can only guess now that the majority are already Coders and are just looking for the CPC formality to bump up their pay.

December 2023 will mark over one (1) year applying to hundreds of jobs and all being rejected. I even have the 2023 manuals sitting right next to me still fully wrapped from shipment in their plastic, never opened once. I figure, why should I? I was excited to add another title to the back of my name, but, starting 20224, I am going to scrap my dreams of working as a Medical Coder and I will never support the AAPC with my money or presence again. I will also never recommend anyone to ever get any credential from AAPC or AHIMA unless they are already working in the job title they wish to advance in. Why? Because, it seems only the AAPC and AHIMA are the governing bodies for these certificates and education in this field, but lack the resources to help their graduates land even the simplest entry-level jobs. Promoting more courses is not experience, and I did not take the CPC courses to become a Medical Biller....lol.

Good luck to everyone else, but come January I will wash myself of becoming a Coder, recycle my books, and write off the costs as a loss.

 

[stoicinflux3]

Oh, I forgot to mention that Medical Coding just might be replaced by AI someday in the near future simply because it is pretty straight forward and follows simple, algorithmic logic. If-Then statements if you will, then the code(s) to match. So , if there will be any growing need as AAPC loves to put it, it will be replaced by AI programs at the insurance levels.

 

[Kyeann196]

That’s what I don’t understand everyone that’s been in the field for so long had to start somewhere too, so they need to think about that. We all have to start from the bottom and work our way up. It’s definitely misleading and they don’t know what a person is capable of doing unless they give someone a chance, just because they been in the field for years don’t mean they know it all either. No one is perfect and we learn something new everyday. These companies be surprise on what us new coders can do, but I just say to myself they missing out just because they don’t want to take out the time to train someone. Sometimes people fail to realize how they even got the position they’re in, they were trained. To you new coders, hang in there I know it’s easier said than done, but don’t give up. We worked hard for our certification and earned it.

especially when a lot of the coursework is for free online with CMS and WHO

 

[medinatuna73@gmail.com]

I agree. It's super frustrating. So much time and energy spent studying and getting the certification and can't get a job without experience. How are we supposed to get experience without a job? I feel like it was a waste of time and money. And, instructors are very misleading re: job opportunities. I have spoken with 3 coding managers at my facility, and they all say they won't hire without 2-5 years experience.

I agree to. I just have only been almost 3 months since I passed the exam, and I continue to apply to all the pages that have been recommended to me, nothing has happened until now. Everyone asks for experience, but if no one gives the opportunity, the experience will never come. Currently and for 4 years I have been working as an MA and phlebotomist in a clinic, I am waiting for my opportunity to be able to work as a coder.

 

[Lakindrab85]

I agree to. I just have only been almost 3 months since I passed the exam, and I continue to apply to all the pages that have been recommended to me, nothing has happened until now. Everyone asks for experience, but if no one gives the opportunity, the experience will never come. Currently and for 4 years I have been working as an MA and phlebotomist in a clinic, I am waiting for my opportunity to be able to work as a coder.

By the time I get a coding job they not even going to use coders no more I already started looking for something else to do. I wouldn’t recommend this course to no one unless they already coders and just need a refresh.

 

[amcin013]

I totally agree with you. It’s so many people signing up for this course, but they going to be upset when they find out how hard it is to land a job in this field. I have my certification and two degrees and I still can’t get anyone to notice me. I wasted my time and money too!! I’m very disappointed.

I agree. I wish I had known then what I know now. I would have never invested any money into a program or the certification. Now I get to decide if I want to keep throwing money at it and hope I get a job, or just let my certification lapse and call it an expensive lesson.

I agree to. I just have only been almost 3 months since I passed the exam, and I continue to apply to all the pages that have been recommended to me, nothing has happened until now. Everyone asks for experience, but if no one gives the opportunity, the experience will never come. Currently and for 4 years I have been working as an MA and phlebotomist in a clinic, I am waiting for my opportunity to be able to work as a coder.

Exactly, I have not come across a job posting that requires anything less than 2 years of coding. Sadly, I don't have anything on the medical side to even point to though, but I have worked a lot of technical jobs. If the medical terminology and processes required to know to achieve certification aren't enough for position what am I even doing?

 

[amroach68]

I can empathize. It took me a year of job hunting to find a temporary job in a Health Information Management Department as a Medical Records coordinator. Once I had verifiable experience working with Medical Records and being exposed to ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS codes, I was able to find a permanent job in a Coding department as an Administrative Assistant. From there, I was promoted to Coder. The entire process took about 2 years. Here are some tips for you all:

1) Don't look solely for "coder" or "Medical coder" when searching for jobs online. Also look for terms like "HIM department" "Risk Adjustment" "Medical records" "Medical Documentation" "Medical Auditor", "Patient registration"
2) Don't be afraid to go Temporary or Temp to permanent. Many large hospital organizations rely upon temps for overflow work. Some hospitals rely on contract workers entirely. They don't hire actual employees. They hire contract workers. (Read: You don't get paid holidays or get CTO &This part really stinks) BUT: If you sign on to a medical employment agency you just might be able to find a forever home job after your temp assignment ends. If not, you get your first verifiable work experience in the medical field (hopefully working around medical records, billing, patient registration or something to get your feet wet for coding).
3) Use YouTube and Linked In. Contempo Coding is a highly recommended channel/ account on both. Victoria is an AAPC spokesperson but does an amazing job of providing tons of coding tips and job search information.
4) AAPC is a hard seller and that's a tough lesson to learn when you are under the impression all you need to do is pass a CPC exam, become a certified coder, and get a job.
It does NOT work like that. You have to do your due diligence before sitting for that $500 exam.
5) Finally, now that you are a coder....be sure you really want to be a coder. Be sure you are ready to be on a productivity line with about 97% accuracy all. the. time. and expect to get audited regularly (read: it can feel like being seriously criticized so if you are faint of heart about being criticized this is not your field of expertise). You need to stare at a computer screen for roughly 8 hours a day, 5 days a week and be CONCENTRATING while coding patient charts. Also, whether you work remotely or on site, there is a reality that bites once you start working closely with providers and other staff in the real coding world. Remember: Providers went to medical school, and unless you did, too, you show respect for them that you are a coder --- only. They can get hot under the collar if you don't know how to phrase your feedbacks! Good luck. It can be done!

 

[mcrileysmom]

i started in a medical office on the switchboard, then moved to a receptionist postition ... i then moved to a float position and worked along side the office manager and learned what i could.... as soon as a coding/billing position opened up in my office i jumped at the chance and made a deal with my office manager that if she would agree to hire me for the position that i would guarantee that i would be a cpc within a year... they hired me with that stipulation .. i took the AAPC course online and passed and then took my CPC test about 3 weeks ago and passed it as well! because i have been working in the same office and already have experience with billing for over 2 years and i took the online live course.. my Apprenticeship will be removed shortly and i'm already set with a job! so don't be afraid to start smaller and think bigger.. just work hard and show them you can do it and you'll get there! i am turning 40 in February and i feel like i'm just finally figuring out what i want to be "when i grow up" lol.

 

[Lynda72]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

Hi, I watched a free of charge CEU video here that I think might be helpful. The title is "Mock Job Interview-Tips and Best Practices", they had a lot of great information about how to apply for a position when you are an apprentice, I checked on LinkedIn and found a couple of positions that no experience was needed as long as the person had a certification, another good app is indeed jobs. Another option will be to contact AAPC customer service for any pointers. I hope this information is helpful. Best wishes!!

 

[sdwatson75]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

i have the same feeling....i was told to get a job in the hospital in a different field to get your foot in the door.

 

[showard01]

I have been a CPC-A since 2006. I have been keeping up my certification, attending meetings, took the ICD-10 exam, and remaining a member of AAPC. No one has answers to get with obtaining a job, after inquiring several times. Every one want you to have 2 yrs of experience, how do you obtain that if no one is willing to give you a chance. I feel that this was a waste of my money and time. I am only keep it up because I have invested so much into it. I thought being a member of AAPC and attending local meetings networking would help but so far nothing. I was a CNA for 22 yrs, decided to go back to school for LPN, which is my current position now. I am still trying to figure out how to move forward with medical coding.

Hey D.Holmes, I understand how you feel, it seems no one wants to give the CPC-A coder a chance. Look on the bright side you can use your coding experience and LPN and get a job as a Utilization Review nurse
I hope 2024 is better for both of us!

 

[amyjph]

In a quick google search:

Job opportunity at CU Medicine - CPC-A Revenue Services Apprentice

I thought you might be interested in this job at CU Medicine

us232.dayforcehcm.com

Job opportunity at CU Medicine - Healthcare Customer Service Apprentice Program

I thought you might be interested in this job at CU Medicine

us232.dayforcehcm.com

Life-Changing Careers at Mayo Clinic (not coding but related and CPC-A would really help)
Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center - AR Insurance Specialist (also not specifically coding, but CPC-A and revenue cycle knowledge/desire to learn would help)

USAJOBS - Search

CPC-A Intern (Remote) (can't tell if paid or not)
Apply for a Position at RUSH | RUSH (use keyword Coder)

Coder I

We are recruiting for a Coder I to join our team! We are here for life’s journey. Where is your life journey taking you? Being the heartbeat of Denver means our heart reflects something bigger than ourselves, something that connects us all: Humanity in action, Triumph in hardship, Transformation...

denverhealth.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com

Healthcare analytic companies that many coders don't consider but have coding type roles:

Careers - Gainwell Technologies

We’re changing healthcare. If you’re smart, play well with others, and are up for a challenge, we’d like to change it with you.

www.gainwelltechnologies.com

Healthcare Analytics Careers | Cotiviti

Cotiviti's success is the product of a talented staff that forms dedicated client relationships built on integrity and understanding. Explore the opportunities.

www.cotiviti.com

https://guidehouse.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/External?q=Coder&timeType=6e54b587e349016c4e0dc937c4035700

As mentioned above try different key words when searching. Look for large hospital systems that may have a "coding pathway" where you start entry level and can work your way up. Search the top ten largest hospital systems in the US.

Consider employment agencies: Addison Group: Consulting Services & Talent Solutions https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/jobs/all/Coder
Look for these as well:
Registration, Coding Services, Accounts Receivable Resolution, Patient Services, Revenue Operations, Coder I, Coder 1, Apprentice

I think if you spoke with most "seasoned" coders and those of us who have been in this for 8-10, 15, 20+ years, you will see most did not start out just taking the CPC test and immediately being employed in a coding role. I understand it is frustrating and I can see how maybe that would be the assumption from some of the materials and information here. I think people need to be realistic as well. Folks can't assume they will immediately be hired into a remote, full time coding role with a CPC-A unfortunately. There are some good tips many of us have shared in other similar threads in the forums if you search CPC-A, Apprentice, find job, etc.
If you are an MA, nurse or have other clinical background, be sure to highlight that in resumes and applications. In my experience, these will open more doors. Be willing to look not only on the provider/hospital side but also the health plan side. Even if it says 1-2 years experience, still apply.