Wiki Finding a Job with status "A"

Create Wiki
Yvesanberg said:
Hello

Just wondering if anyone else has found a job while having the status "A"?
Click to expand...
Nope. I've only had my CPC-A since the end of July, so I'm not expecting to find an entry level position right away. I've applied to a lot of jobs, all rejections. I know it takes a lot of No's in order to find the Yes! The right job is out there! Hopefully you've been using LinkedIn, indeed and even sign up for alerts from AAPC for jobs. Good luck with your search!
 
I think it really depends on your area. Some companies look for entry level positions specifically for Apprentice Coders. You have probably heard this already, but you might want to apply to other related positions just to get your foot in the door. I applied for Patient Service Representative positions as well as any Outpatient Coder position I could find. I got lucky with a certain company that was looking for Apprentice Coders and got hired with them. Your resume is key when it comes to standing out, even if you don't have any prior experience. You have to try and show that your previous job experience has transferrable skills that can translate into the coding world. I was in the Culinary Industry for 10+ years, so let that sink in. Good luck with your search!!
 
Yvesanberg said:
Hello

Just wondering if anyone else has found a job while having the status "A"?
Click to expand...
Hello! When I had the "A" I could not get a job even if the hiring organization specifically stated Entry Level or CPC-A for the qualifications. I finished the AAPC Practicode internship course and have been a CPC for more than six months and still no one will hire me at the entry level or "A".

I have been a professional healthcare provider as well for over a decade and that does not seem to be relevant to hiring agencies either. I purchased the 2023 Coding books bundle from AAPC and I have not had top open them yet because I still can not get hired. My issue id that AAPC and AHIMA both claim Medical Coders are growing at a rate of 36%, or so, every year and more are going to be needed as the standard is accepted worldwide.

I also see that all computer coding, and medical coding, could easily be done by AI systems soon. There doesn't seem to be a job placement program with AAPC given the large amount of $$$ they make from us. So, I have been just frustrated enough to all but abandon getting a job. I hope you all the very best and that you all do get an opportunity. As for me, i feel it was a waste of my time and money.
 
I passed my exam April 2023 and got a job offer in July, started in August for a major local hospital and managed to get a second job offer in August for CSI companies which I started in September.

I knew it would be difficult but my case I got extremely lucky. I give credit to the advice of an internal employee of a different hospital stating that it’s really hard to get through the algorithm in online applications that filter for key terms. So in order to do so, take the application requirements and use the key terms reworded into your application (I had externship experience from getting a medical billing and coding degree that made it easier for me to do this, so I may suggest trying to get some experience that way).

Another thing I credit is going to Etsy and buying a digital resume template that makes your resume stand out beautifully against others that appear very plain and ordinary done themselves. You can go to Etsy and search “healthcare resume templates” or I think even medical coder templates etc.

The main thing I believe is wording your resume to get past the algorithm in order for your resume to even show up past the filter.

I would also keep a look out for CSI Companies and there’s another recruiting companies that I forget what it’s called… but they hire CPC-As with no experience, no interview, no pre hire test. Don’t know if they’re still looking for coders but I would assume so.
 
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.
 
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.
 
jqadadah said:
I passed my exam April 2023 and got a job offer in July, started in August for a major local hospital and managed to get a second job offer in August for CSI companies which I started in September.

I knew it would be difficult but my case I got extremely lucky. I give credit to the advice of an internal employee of a different hospital stating that it’s really hard to get through the algorithm in online applications that filter for key terms. So in order to do so, take the application requirements and use the key terms reworded into your application (I had externship experience from getting a medical billing and coding degree that made it easier for me to do this, so I may suggest trying to get some experience that way).

Another thing I credit is going to Etsy and buying a digital resume template that makes your resume stand out beautifully against others that appear very plain and ordinary done themselves. You can go to Etsy and search “healthcare resume templates” or I think even medical coder templates etc.

The main thing I believe is wording your resume to get past the algorithm in order for your resume to even show up past the filter.

I would also keep a look out for CSI Companies and there’s another recruiting companies that I forget what it’s called… but they hire CPC-As with no experience, no interview, no pre hire test. Don’t know if they’re still looking for coders but I would assume so.
Click to expand...
Externships are VERY far and few between, AAPC lists externship on their website, however it's not maintained/updated at all...so it's basically useless.
 
stoicinflux3 said:
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.
Click to expand...
If AAPC is going to pump out all these new Coders with Apprentice status, then why not have a fully functioning externship program (their current one is non existent and a complete joke). At least with an externship it would set up new Coders to be successful to actually get a job as an actual coder, and not wasting time at a job that "gets your foot in the door".
 
stoicinflux3 said:
Hello! When I had the "A" I could not get a job even if the hiring organization specifically stated Entry Level or CPC-A for the qualifications. I finished the AAPC Practicode internship course and have been a CPC for more than six months and still no one will hire me at the entry level or "A".

I have been a professional healthcare provider as well for over a decade and that does not seem to be relevant to hiring agencies either. I purchased the 2023 Coding books bundle from AAPC and I have not had top open them yet because I still can not get hired. My issue id that AAPC and AHIMA both claim Medical Coders are growing at a rate of 36%, or so, every year and more are going to be needed as the standard is accepted worldwide.

I also see that all computer coding, and medical coding, could easily be done by AI systems soon. There doesn't seem to be a job placement program with AAPC given the large amount of $$$ they make from us. So, I have been just frustrated enough to all but abandon getting a job. I hope you all the very best and that you all do get an opportunity. As for me, i feel it was a waste of my time and money.
Click to expand...
Hi there, I started actually with a CBCS certification, which was included with my schools tuitions for medical billing and coding. After I obtained the certification, come to realize that no one wants it. So, I sat for the CPC exam (which was a nightmare all on its own), then I realized that no one wants CPC-A...Ok, how do I deal with this? My options are apparently to find an employer to write me letter after 6 months, or do the practicum. So, I hand out the money for the practicum. Keep in mind that at this time I am already holding 2 different certifications for the same thing and I didn't just study for the exams, I actually took multiple classes for a professional diploa. However, I find that as I am doing the practicum....somewhere around 36% of my questions are being marked incorrectly, compared to approximately the 9% that should have been marked wrong. I actually sat down and made a spread sheet. I went over my answers and their rationalizations multiple times. Do you know what the results were? Majority of my answers that had been marked wrong were actually right! The codes that the program has as the correct answers were either A. Out dated/expired/removed codes and or B. Less specific codes than the case actually supported and/or C. The program didn't like the order my codes were entered in even if the code guidelines suggested that the order didn't matter as long as XYZ was list first. And yet it would the program would mark me wrong regardless.

I have held my CBCS (certified billing and coding specialist) for 2 years now and my CPC-A for a year. I haven't completed the practicum because I don't know how to code inccorectly for the glitched system and will no longer waste my time only for it to not pass me at the end. I also still have not obtained a job within the coding industry. I wish to work from home, so my options are a bit more limited than some. However, I am quite tempted to look into a different field, because the jobs that I see posted....the majority of them pay absolutley horribly. Can anyone answer me WHY I routinely see most remote coding jobs paying $13-$19 an hour, require any number of certifications AND multiple years of experience? I have many degrees in various areas and countless certifications, but, honestly, the McDonalds down the street pays 16 year old kids to start at $15 an hour. Why on earth has the coding industry actually gone backwards in the pay scale area?

I personally am beginning to realize what a a racket AAPC is. It's the name employers recognize because AAPC has their name on EVERYTHING. But you can't just get certified, you also have to pay for additional "training and education" before your certification is worth more than the piece of paper it is printed on. And the additional "training and education" is quite ridiculously expensive, not to mention their codify software which is quite literally trash and also stupid expensive. If you are bound and determined to make it with coding, there is a web site based program called "find a code". They are by far much cheaper than codify, and also way more user friendly. You can actually put your coding books aside and use find a code. It costs like $40 a month which is quite a bit less than the codify. I tried both of them and it didn't take me more than 24 hours to see the value in find a code over codify.

I don't know if I am going to continue looking for employment with my CPC-A credential or try to drop the A or just plain never look at anything AAPC related again. I wish everyone the best of luck, but until all of us demand changes from AAPC and their affliates....this is what we will all be stuck with.
 
rward said:
Externships are VERY far and few between, AAPC lists externship on their website, however it's not maintained/updated at all...so it's basically useless.
Click to expand...
I can’t even find externship. Seem like it’s not offered anywhere at least where I’m located.
 
I've been though hell as well using Practicode. I follow guidelines completely and sequence codes well in real life, but have run into the same issues as you with case grading...not only that, but when I challenge grading using post-code notes it takes a coach up to 6 weeks to respond with often almost seemingly AI-based responses or broken English claiming they will "recommend" a case grade be corrected...WHICH NEVER HAPPENS! All attempts at contacting the Practicode tech team are met with absolute silence. I'm beginning to think they're purposely letting the glitches remain and that this program is a scam because it takes longer than they claim to complete all 600 cases due to having to spend a lot of time keeping track of case issues and whether or not there is follow-through on their end (which never happens anyway)...so basically you have to start extending the program month to month...it seems to be all about paying extra or buying special programs. I wish I had gone with AHIMA!
 
I have been certified since October this year and Im having a really hard time landing a job. I also have over 20 years of experience in the medical field. None of these employers want to give a recent certified applicant a chance. Its so frustrating. I have spent a lot of time and money with AAPC and getting certified. I went into this field because I wanted a change and needed something to where I wasnt on my feet constantly all day since I have bad knees now. So now Im unemployed with a school loan that apparently is useless to landing a job. Any help will be appreciated.
 
jqadadah said:
I passed my exam April 2023 and got a job offer in July, started in August for a major local hospital and managed to get a second job offer in August for CSI companies which I started in September.

I knew it would be difficult but my case I got extremely lucky. I give credit to the advice of an internal employee of a different hospital stating that it’s really hard to get through the algorithm in online applications that filter for key terms. So in order to do so, take the application requirements and use the key terms reworded into your application (I had externship experience from getting a medical billing and coding degree that made it easier for me to do this, so I may suggest trying to get some experience that way).

Another thing I credit is going to Etsy and buying a digital resume template that makes your resume stand out beautifully against others that appear very plain and ordinary done themselves. You can go to Etsy and search “healthcare resume templates” or I think even medical coder templates etc.

The main thing I believe is wording your resume to get past the algorithm in order for your resume to even show up past the filter.

I would also keep a look out for CSI Companies and there’s another recruiting companies that I forget what it’s called… but they hire CPC-As with no experience, no interview, no pre hire test. Don’t know if they’re still looking for coders but I would assume so.
Click to expand...
Thank you very much jqadadah. I have been searching for a job since becoming certified in June 2023 with no luck. I will follow your lead. I greatly appreciate the information. I have tried CSI with no success. I didn't do an externship b/c I went to school online, but I did tailor my resume to almost every job that I applied for with nothing but rejections. I will try your approach now. You are greatly appreciated. We'll see what happens next.

Quote Reply
Report Edit Delete
 
stoicinflux3 said:
Hello! When I had the "A" I could not get a job even if the hiring organization specifically stated Entry Level or CPC-A for the qualifications. I finished the AAPC Practicode internship course and have been a CPC for more than six months and still no one will hire me at the entry level or "A".

I have been a professional healthcare provider as well for over a decade and that does not seem to be relevant to hiring agencies either. I purchased the 2023 Coding books bundle from AAPC and I have not had top open them yet because I still can not get hired. My issue id that AAPC and AHIMA both claim Medical Coders are growing at a rate of 36%, or so, every year and more are going to be needed as the standard is accepted worldwide.

I also see that all computer coding, and medical coding, could easily be done by AI systems soon. There doesn't seem to be a job placement program with AAPC given the large amount of $$$ they make from us. So, I have been just frustrated enough to all but abandon getting a job. I hope you all the very best and that you all do get an opportunity. As for me, i feel it was a waste of my time and money.
Click to expand...
Hello! I am a PA-C and just did the online course. I just finished the CPC certification. when you say Practicode intership course, are you saying you did it for a year and then was able to get a job or is there an actual course (with instructors) that go through the practicode with you?

Thanks in advance and congrats on your new job!
 
Here is a list of companies/websites that hire CPC-A's that I send out to my students:

These companies/third-party employers hire CPC-A's:
  • Ciox Health
  • The Judge Group
  • CSI Companies
  • Addison Group
  • Wellstar Health System
  • Tenet Health
  • Novant Health
  • Inova Health
  • Catalyst Health Group
  • Exite Health
  • Moffitt Cancer Centers (they have a specific job listing for CPC-A's when they have a training class scheduled)
Websites:
  • Nthrive
  • Imedx
  • The Coding Network
  • Aviacode
  • Humana
  • Change Healthcare
  • Himagine Solutions
  • LoveWorkAtHome.com
  • Indeed
  • Maxim Healthcare
  • United Health Group (usually hires through the Judge Group, but you can also get hired directly for claims specialists, prior auth reps, etc)
  • Cpsi



The AAPC recently re-did their "jobs" search page and it now includes an option to search for remote positions as well as "Project Xtern" positions. When I looked last week, there were a couple of remote Project Xtern jobs available.
 
sinman0531 said:
Here is a list of companies/websites that hire CPC-A's that I send out to my students:

These companies/third-party employers hire CPC-A's:
  • Ciox Health
  • The Judge Group
  • CSI Companies
  • Addison Group
  • Wellstar Health System
  • Tenet Health
  • Novant Health
  • Inova Health
  • Catalyst Health Group
  • Exite Health
  • Moffitt Cancer Centers (they have a specific job listing for CPC-A's when they have a training class scheduled)
Websites:
  • Nthrive
  • Imedx
  • The Coding Network
  • Aviacode
  • Humana
  • Change Healthcare
  • Himagine Solutions
  • LoveWorkAtHome.com
  • Indeed
  • Maxim Healthcare
  • United Health Group (usually hires through the Judge Group, but you can also get hired directly for claims specialists, prior auth reps, etc)
  • Cpsi



The AAPC recently re-did their "jobs" search page and it now includes an option to search for remote positions as well as "Project Xtern" positions. When I looked last week, there were a couple of remote Project Xtern jobs available.
Click to expand...
This is super helpful! Thanks!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top