I am wondering what the future need for coders will be with an increase in physician's and hospitals going to software programs such as code assist. Is there going to be an increase in demand for coders or will the demand decrease? It is hard enough trying to gain experience and it is very discouraging when you can't get a job.
Computers can't replace coders, try as they might. There's too much subjectivity in coding, and too many aspects that require human interpretation (such as figures of speech, drawing conclusions based on context clues, and guideline interpretations) for a computer to calculate everything correctly, every time. Personally, I see that function of EMR as more of a hinderance to providers than a helper, but I think it'll be a while before a lot of doctors catch on to how much they could be losing, or how much risk they're taking on, in relying on software for their coding.
The future of coding that I see is this: Assuming that the PPACA isn't repealed (I don't see repeal happening anytime soon, despite all of the partisan squabbles), healthcare finance is going to be put under the microscope like never before. Lawmakers are going to look for anywhere that money can be saved, and claims paid erroneously to providers due to incorrect coding will eventually be singled out as a target for reform. Mark my words: someday, it's going to be a requirement for coders to be certified. If it doesn't become a law, then it's going to be a requirement for malpractice insurance, or for payor contracts with providers. I'm dumbfounded at why it's not already a law - you'd think that the quality of the foundation of reimbursement for healthcare services would be something worth overseeing, and it seems like that's the only thing in this industry that's not controlled by some kind of regulations.
Try your hand at claims follow-up, if you can. It's a good way to get your foot in the door, and makes you more well-rounded as a coder. I got my start there, and I'd recommend it to anyone! Follow-up led me to coding, and then to auditing. Whatever you do, don't give up! You passed the test, so you're one giant leap closer to being where you want to be - just consider taking a little detour to get there, if it's too hard to find work right away. Good luck!