There is a huge demand in hospitals, large doctor's offices, and billing companies for billers and coders. A medical coder takes information from the patient's medical charts and treatment information and translates the information into a numeric classified specified by the icd-9, which is the International Classification of Disease 2009. Once translated, the information can be sent to the insurance company for reimbursement according to the patient's insurance plan. Next year you will need to study the icd-10 codes, which will entail the coding of patient diagnoses in much more detail.

There is a need for understanding of medical terminology, summaries of diagnoses and treatment through constant contact with the physician's office to ensure proper coding for treatment such as x-rays, diagnoses, treatment plans, and laboratory reports.

It is difficult to enter this field without formal training. Training typically involves an associate's degree, which can take up to two years to complete via a junior college or post-secondary school. Most employers prefer to hire individuals with certification in either Certified Professional Coding (CPC) or Certified Registered Health Information Technology (RHIT) offered through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities are expected to increase by 18%.