The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association, is a pivotal credential for those pursuing a career in medical billing and coding. This certification not only enhances career prospects with higher wages and job stability but also ensures proficiency in essential billing and coding tasks. Delve into the benefits, exam process, and career opportunities that accompany this certification.
Understanding CBCS Certification
The Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) certification is a professional credential offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). It is designed for individuals aiming to establish a career in medical billing and coding. This certification is particularly beneficial for those seeking to enhance their career prospects, as it provides foundational skills necessary for various healthcare environments. The CBCS certification verifies proficiency in both billing and coding tasks, which are crucial for ensuring healthcare providers receive proper compensation for their services (source).
Benefits of CBCS Certification
Obtaining a CBCS certification offers numerous advantages, including higher wages, job stability, and a positive career outlook. Certified professionals in medical billing and coding earn approximately 20% more than their non-certified counterparts, highlighting the financial benefits of certification (source). Additionally, the certification enhances employability in a competitive field, with a projected 15% growth in job opportunities by 2024. Employers often prefer candidates who are certified or can become certified shortly after hiring (source).
Exam and Certification Process
The CBCS exam is a timed, computer-based test consisting of 100 questions and 20 pretest questions. It covers topics such as regulatory compliance, claims processing, front-end duties, payment adjudication, and coding knowledge. A passing score of 390 or higher is required, with the exam costing approximately $117. To be eligible for the CBCS exam, candidates must have completed a medical billing and coding training program within the last five years from an accredited institution and hold a high school diploma or GED (source).
Career Opportunities and Advancement
Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialists can pursue employment in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and remote work-from-home environments. Common job titles include Medical Billing Specialist, Medical Coding Specialist, Billing and Coding Auditor, and Revenue Cycle Analyst. The demand for these professionals remains strong due to the ongoing need for accurate medical billing and coding in the healthcare industry (source).
Continuing Education and Certification Maintenance
CBCS certification holders must renew their certification every two years by completing 10 continuing education credits and paying a recertification fee of $169. Those certified before October 1, 2015, must complete at least 5 credits in ICD-10 specific courses. This requirement ensures that professionals stay current with industry standards and continue to develop their skills (source).
Why You Should Learn More About CBCS Certification Today
Exploring the career advantages of obtaining a CBCS certification can significantly impact one’s professional journey in the healthcare industry. With the potential for higher earnings, increased employability, and opportunities for advancement, the CBCS certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to establish or enhance their career in medical billing and coding. Additionally, the certification process and continuing education requirements ensure that professionals remain knowledgeable and competitive in a rapidly growing field. Understanding the benefits and requirements of CBCS certification can help individuals make informed decisions about their career paths and professional development.