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How to Become a Medical Biller and Coder in South Carolina

To become a medical biller and coder in South Carolina, pursue certification to boost job prospects in this in-demand health care field, which offers stable career opportunities and competitive salaries.
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How to Become a Medical Biller and Coder in South Carolina

A career in medical billing and coding can be a rewarding path, offering stability and a vital role in the health care industry. In South Carolina, coders and billers are in demand, providing opportunities for those interested in the administrative side of health care. This guide outlines the steps to becoming a medical biller and coder in South Carolina, including education, certification, and employment prospects.

What is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical billing and coding are crucial components of the health care system, ensuring that health care providers are accurately reimbursed for their services. This field involves translating medical procedures and diagnoses into standardized codes that are used for billing purposes.

Medical Coding

Medical coding involves assigning specific codes to medical diagnoses and procedures. These codes are derived from several coding systems that are universally recognized.

Medical Coding Systems Comparison

Coding System Description
ICD-10-CM International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification; used for diagnosis coding.
CPT Current Procedural Terminology; used for coding medical procedures and services.
HCPCS Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System; used for billing Medicare and other health insurance programs.

Medical Billing

Medical billing involves submitting and following up on claims with health insurance companies to receive payment for services rendered by a health care provider. This process ensures that the provider is reimbursed for their services.

Do I Need a Medical Billing and Coding License in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, you do not need a specific license to work as a medical biller and coder. However, obtaining certification can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Becoming a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Professional in South Carolina

Step 1: Enroll in a Certification Prep Course

While it's not technically required to take a course, enrolling in a certificate program can help you prepare for certification exams such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Professional Biller (CPB), and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS).

Here are a few medical coding and billing programs in South Carolina:

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Step 2: Get Certified (CPC, CCS or Equivalent)

Obtaining certification from a recognized organization like the AAPC or AHIMA can significantly boost your credentials. Certifications such as CPC, CPB, or CCS are widely recognized and respected in the industry.

Step 3: Find a Medical Billing Job in South Carolina (Or Remote)

South Carolina offers numerous opportunities for medical billers and coders. The four biggest health care providers in the state, based on revenue, assets, and number of employees, are:

  1. McLeod Health:
    • Revenue: $313.4 million
    • Assets: $152.0 million
    • Employees: 5,086
  2. Prisma Health-Upstate:
    • Revenue: $2.9 billion
    • Assets: $1.5 billion
    • Employees: 13,600
  3. Prisma Health-Midlands:
    • Revenue: $1.6 billion
    • Assets: $1.2 billion
    • Employees: 10,200
  4. MUSC Health:
    • Revenue: Over $5.3 million
    • Employees: Over 10,000

These figures indicate that Prisma Health-Upstate and McLeod Health are the largest in terms of revenue and assets, with Prisma Health-Midlands also being a significant player. MUSC Health, while smaller in terms of revenue, has a substantial number of employees, making it a major health care provider in the state.

Step 4: Maintain Your Certification

Continuing education is essential to maintaining your certification. Most certifying bodies require a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) to renew your certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Earn in South Carolina?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical records specialists in South Carolina earn an average annual salary of $53,300, with an hourly mean wage of $25.63. The state employs approximately 3,020 professionals in this field.

Additionally, the AAPC Salary Survey for South Carolina provides more nuanced information:

CertificationAnnual Salary
Certified OB/GYN Coder (COBGC)$58,333.33
Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC)$52,500.00
Certified Outpatient Coder (COC)$77,857.14
Certified Pediatrics Coder (CPEDC)$72,500.00
Certified Professional Coder (CPC)$61,313.78
Certified Professional Biller (CPB)$58,333.33
Certified Rheumatology Coder (CRHC)$45,000.00
Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC)$61,313.78
Certified Family Practice Coder (CFPC)$49,166.67
Certified General Surgery Coder (CGSC)$62,500.00
Certified Orthopedic Surgery Coder (COSC)$61,250.00
Certified Professional Coder-Payer (CPC-P)$68,750.00
Certified Emergency Department Coder (CEDC)$47,500.00
Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM)$59,166.67
Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA)$75,806.45
Certified Hematology and Oncology Coder (CHONC)$95,000.00
Certified Professional Coder-Apprentice (CPC-A)$46,250.00
Certified Professional Coder-Instructor (CPC-I)$90,000.00
Certified Documentation Expert Outpatient (CDEO)$94,000.00
Certified Evaluation and Management Coder (CEMC)$65,000.00
Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO)$79,583.33
Certified Ambulatory Surgery Center Coder (CASCC)$52,500.00
Certified Anesthesia and Pain Management Coder (CANPC)$42,500.00
Certified Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Coder (CCVTC)$42,500.00

Where Can Medical Billing and Coding Take You?

Medical billing and coding can open doors to various career paths within the health care industry. Professionals can advance to roles such as health information managers, compliance officers, or even educators within the field.

Bottom Line

A career in medical billing and coding in South Carolina offers a stable and rewarding path in the health care industry. By following the steps outlined above and obtaining the necessary certifications, you can position yourself for success in this growing field. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance your career, the opportunities in South Carolina are abundant.

Medical Coding Program (CPC)
Palmetto Medical Coding Academy
Columbia, South Carolina
Learn More
Medical Coding Program (CPC)
Palmetto Medical Coding Academy Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Medical Coding Program (CPC)
Palmetto Medical Coding Academy Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Award Type
Program Cost
PRogram Length
Delivery Method
Certificate
$2,300
16 weeks
Award Type
Progam Cost
Certificate
$2,300
Program Length
Delivery Method
16 weeks
Online
Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina
Learn More
Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)
Medical University of South Carolina Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)
Medical University of South Carolina Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Award Type
Program Cost
PRogram Length
Delivery Method
Certificate
$2,995
12 months
Award Type
Progam Cost
Certificate
$2,995
Program Length
Delivery Method
12 months
Online
Medical Coding
The TK Medical Coding Institute Llc
Graniteville, South Carolina
Learn More
Medical Coding
The TK Medical Coding Institute, LLC Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Medical Coding
The TK Medical Coding Institute, LLC Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Online
South Carolina
Award Type
Program Cost
PRogram Length
Delivery Method
Certificate
$2,800
365 days (about 12 months)
Award Type
Progam Cost
Certificate
$2,800
Program Length
Delivery Method
365 days (about 12 months)
Online
Program outcomes may vary depending on each institution's specific curriculum and employment opportunities are not guranteed.