smontague
Networker
I posted this to my local forum, but also wanted to put it out to the entire AAPC community. I've been out of the coding/billing game for just over a year and I'm having some trouble getting back in despite many years of experience. Here's my original post:
So, for a little background information I was in the medical field for 15 years, the last 9 of which I spent as a coder/biller in a professional medical office (it was a combo of IM, FP and BH). I really loved the work but was getting a little burnt out, mostly my own fault because I have this issue where I like to do everything myself and have a difficult time asking for help, plus I'm a little bit of a perfectionist. Anyway, as the burn out was hitting it's peak the office was also going through some major changes and I had a major life event that hit me pretty hard. So, I walked away from it all and went into child care of all things! I have been kicking myself since.
I still renewed my certifications because I had worked so hard for both my CPC and CPB I didn't want to let them go, but I've been out of the medical game for just over a year now and I can't seem to get back in. I've applied to multiple positions at multiple local offices/hospitals and have had no luck. I know I've been out for a year, but I have 15 years of experience behind me. I even had 2 interviews but never got a call back from either...even though I have a glowing review from my previous boss who says in the letter that he would hire me back if he had a position available.
So, I guess my question is this. How do I stand out as an experienced coder to get the job? Obviously what I'm putting on my resume or what I'm sharing during the interviews isn't working. Also, is there a refresher course that anyone would recommend? I have my issues of Healthcare Business monthly and I have the webinar subscription, but I wasn't sure if there was anything else I should be doing to keep my skills up for when I do get a new job. Any insight or help would be appreciated. Thank you!
So, for a little background information I was in the medical field for 15 years, the last 9 of which I spent as a coder/biller in a professional medical office (it was a combo of IM, FP and BH). I really loved the work but was getting a little burnt out, mostly my own fault because I have this issue where I like to do everything myself and have a difficult time asking for help, plus I'm a little bit of a perfectionist. Anyway, as the burn out was hitting it's peak the office was also going through some major changes and I had a major life event that hit me pretty hard. So, I walked away from it all and went into child care of all things! I have been kicking myself since.
I still renewed my certifications because I had worked so hard for both my CPC and CPB I didn't want to let them go, but I've been out of the medical game for just over a year now and I can't seem to get back in. I've applied to multiple positions at multiple local offices/hospitals and have had no luck. I know I've been out for a year, but I have 15 years of experience behind me. I even had 2 interviews but never got a call back from either...even though I have a glowing review from my previous boss who says in the letter that he would hire me back if he had a position available.
So, I guess my question is this. How do I stand out as an experienced coder to get the job? Obviously what I'm putting on my resume or what I'm sharing during the interviews isn't working. Also, is there a refresher course that anyone would recommend? I have my issues of Healthcare Business monthly and I have the webinar subscription, but I wasn't sure if there was anything else I should be doing to keep my skills up for when I do get a new job. Any insight or help would be appreciated. Thank you!