Author Topic: Certified Coding Associate -searching opportunity  (Read 2387 times)

jbabeya

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Certified Coding Associate -searching opportunity
« on: December 08, 2010, 11:25:40 AM »
I apologize if this new topic I am posting is not appropriate, but I trust everyone's understanding and patience in this forum.

I passed the AHIMA's CCA exam on Oct 15, 2010 on my first attempt with a score of 91.75%.  I took the exam after I graduated July 2010 the Medical Coding Billing course from Lincoln Tech (Paramus NJ) with a 'Perfect 4.0 Award' for achieving a grade of 4.0 (A) in every module of the course.

With such modest achievement, I then started applying for jobs advertised (on-line and otherwise) in the field of medical billing and coding. My resume has been edited by Lincoln Tech, which of course shows that I have no experience yet in the field at issue, except for my one month externship to complete my course.

I have been hoping there would be an employer willing to hire me for a 'new-entry level' position, but I have had no luck.

I am willing to work even on voluntary basis if only to get an experience, preferably in a physician office setting as opposed to hospital setting.  My longer term goal is to set up my own business in medical billing/coding.  I could not imagine setting my own business without gaining experience yet, or can this be practically done?

At any rate, if there's anyone who could advise me or offer me a position or a step towards getting an experience, I would appreciate it very much.
Faithfully yours,
Jeremy Abeya
173 Griggs Ave
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Phone: (201) 357-2636
email: jeremyabeya@yahoo.com

PMRNC

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Re: Certified Coding Associate -searching opportunity
« Reply #1 on: December 08, 2010, 06:17:14 PM »
Hopefully you are not needing to find work at home, as it's VERY unlikely you will without more on the job experience.  I would suggest to keep trying and also to start entry level, records, billing, receptionist even.. it's a better way to get your foot in the door, it's hard to break right into a coding job right off the bat.
Linda Walker
Practice Managers Resource & Networking Community
One Stop Resources, Education and Networking for Medical Billers
www.billerswebsite.com

valentine

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Re: Certified Coding Associate -searching opportunity
« Reply #2 on: December 11, 2010, 10:10:20 PM »
I agree, most employers are looking to hire coders with at least 2 years experience, so your best bet is to look elsewhere in HIM, such as medical records, billing, data entry or even front desk. Gain much needed medical experience as well as become more familiar with ICD 9, CPT and reimbursement. Then you can leverage for a coding job.

I started at front desk, then went to billing and then finally coding. For most of us currently coding, we had to start at the bottom and work our way up, it takes awhile, but pays off in the end.

Congrats are on your very high CCA score!

Valentine

Medical Billing Forum

Re: Certified Coding Associate -searching opportunity
« Reply #2 on: December 11, 2010, 10:10:20 PM »