So, exactly what is medical billing and coding? Simply put, one of the most essential, yet often unseen, functions in today’s healthcare system.
Medical billing and coding professionals translate patient care into standardized codes, ensure accurate documentation, and submit clean claims so providers receive timely reimbursement from insurance, patients receive the best care possible, and everyone’s paid for their labor and expertise.
If you’re exploring this career path, earning an online medical billing and coding certificate is one of the fastest ways to enter the field. In fact, many students choose an online medical billing and coding program for the flexibility it offers as they prepare for industry-standard skills and certifications.
Why medical billing and coding matter
In the healthcare field, medical billing and coding play a vital role. Every time a patient visits a doctor, undergoes a test, or receives treatment, a detailed record is created.
Medical coders review these records and convert diagnoses, procedures, and services into universal code sets used across the healthcare industry.
Medical billers then take that coded information and create insurance claims, following up with payers to make sure providers are reimbursed correctly. This process is essential for maintaining financial stability in hospitals, physician offices, specialty clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Accurate coding also supports quality patient care by ensuring that records remain consistent, up-to-date, and easy for providers to access within electronic health record (EHR) systems.
What medical billers and coders do
While billing and coding are closely connected and can overlap in many job descriptions, each role has its own unique set of responsibilities.
Medical coding
Medical coders review patient charts and provider notes, and assign standardized codes that represent diagnoses and procedures, ensuring that all coding is accurate and compliant with government and insurance regulations.
Those pursuing a medical billing and coding certificate learn how to apply ICD-10-CM for diagnoses, CPT for medical procedures, and HCPCS for supplies, equipment, and certain services.
Medical billing
Medical billers prepare and submit insurance claims based on coded information and communicate with insurance companies to resolve any claim issues. They’re responsible for posting payments, tracking outstanding balances, handling claim follow-up, and working directly with patients to explain bills or discuss payment options.
In many healthcare settings, these responsibilities overlap, and professionals may perform both billing and coding tasks.
Shape your future in medical billing and coding!
The systems they use
Much of a biller and coder’s work takes place within electronic health record (EHR) systems, billing software, and claims management platforms. These tools help streamline the documentation process, reduce errors, and keep patient information consistent across departments.
Because accuracy is critical, the field requires detail-oriented, organized individuals who are comfortable working with digital tools.
Training, certification, and career outlook for MBC
A medical billing and coding certificate teaches foundational skills and offers an accessible pathway for students and career changers who want to enter the healthcare industry without completing years of clinical training.
Many professionals complete a certificate program to gain foundational knowledge in anatomy, medical terminology, coding systems, reimbursement processes, and healthcare regulations. Credentials like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) can enhance employment opportunities and demonstrate proficiency to employers.
Students enrolled in an online medical billing and coding program gain experience with digital medical record systems. Health information specialists continue to grow as the healthcare system expands and more providers transition to digital record-keeping.
Career outlook and salary for medical billing and coding
This field is projected to grow 7%, which is faster than average, offering stable career opportunities and flexible work environments, including on-site, hybrid, and remote positions. Compensation in this field varies based on experience, certification status, geographic location, and work setting. Although the median annual salary is $50,250, with those in management positions making $60,750.
Entry-level medical billers and coders typically earn competitive starting salaries that increase with specialized certifications and years of experience.
Advancement opportunities for billers and coders
Certified professionals often earn higher wages than their non-certified counterparts, with opportunities to earn premium compensation in specialized areas such as surgical coding, oncology, or interventional radiology.
Career advancement opportunities are abundant for dedicated professionals. Many billers and coders move into supervisory or management roles, overseeing coding departments or revenue cycle operations. Others specialize in coding, auditing, compliance, or education, training the next generation of professionals. Some even transition into health information management positions, consulting roles, or revenue cycle analysis.
Navigating career challenges
Like any profession, medical billing and coding come with their share of challenges. Keeping pace with constant changes tops the list of challenges.
The ICD-10-CM code set is updated every October, CPT codes change annually, and insurance company policies shift regularly. Successful professionals set aside time for continuing education to stay informed.
Further, managing denied or rejected claims can be frustrating, especially when you’ve carefully followed all guidelines. Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, from simple data-entry errors to complex medical-necessity questions.
Learning to read explanation of benefits (EOB) statements, understanding common denial reasons, and developing a systematic appeals process will help you turn denials into successful reimbursements. These challenges become more manageable with experience, proper training, and the right support system.
A quality certificate program like the one offered at University of Bridgeport prepares you to handle real-world situations, giving you the confidence to navigate obstacles and build a rewarding career in healthcare administration.
Start your career at University of Bridgeport
The new online Medical Billing and Coding certificate at University of Bridgeport prepares graduates for real-world billing, coding, and reimbursement roles.
Education needs to fit into your life, not the other way around. That’s why our Medical Billing and Coding certificate program is designed with flexibility in mind, helping you balance your studies with work, family, and personal commitments.
As a student in the Medical Billing and Coding program at UB, you can complete your certificate in as few as 16–20 months, attend live, fully online classes that fit your schedule, and apply your learning through a hybrid capstone experience.