Top Entry-Level Medical Billing & Coding jobs: Kickstart Your Healthcare Career Today
If you’re looking to begin a rewarding career in healthcare without years of school, entry-level medical billing and coding offers a clear pathway.This field combines attention to detail, problem-solving, and a strong sense of service-while opening doors to remote work, steady demand, and clear advancement opportunities. In this guide, you’ll find a practical roadmap to the top entry-level roles, the certifications that matter, salary expectations, and actionable steps to land your first job.
What are medical billing and coding, and why should you consider an entry-level path?
Medical billing and coding are the backbone of healthcare administration. Medical coders translate patient diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes (ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS) used for billing and documentation. Medical billers then submit claims to insurance companies, follow up on denials, and ensure revenue flows smoothly to the practice or hospital. Even at the entry level, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring patients recieve the right care and providers get paid promptly.
Why start here? Benefits include:
- Faster entry into the workforce with certificate- or diploma-based programs
- Strong demand and growing need for skilled billers and coders in hospitals, clinics, and remote settings
- Clear pathways to higher roles in revenue cycle management, auditing, and healthcare IT
- Potential for remote work, flexible schedules, and part-time options
- Opportunities for professional growth via certifications and continuing education
Top entry-level job titles in medical billing and coding
Below are common entry-level roles that consistently hire new entrants. Each position lists typical duties, preferred qualifications, and what you can expect to earn as you gain experience.
| Role | Typical Duties | Education & Certifications | Estimated Salary (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Billing Clerk | Enter patient information, verify insurance, process claims, follow up on payments, and reconcile accounts receivable. | Certificate or diploma in medical billing or health information management; on-the-job training; knowledge of CPT/ICD-10 codes | $34k-$42k per year (entry level); $16-$20/hour |
| Medical Biller | Submit claims, track reimbursements, denials management, patient billing statements, and posting payments. | Certificate in medical billing; optional associate degree; familiarity with payer requirements | $38k-$50k per year; $18-$25/hour |
| Medical coder (Entry-level) | Assign ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes based on medical records; ensure documentation supports billing. | certificate in medical coding; CPC (AAPC) or CCS (AHIMA) preferred for advancement; CPT/ICD-10 coding knowledge | $40k-$54k per year; $19-$27/hour |
| Insurance Verifier / Eligibility Specialist | Verify patient insurance coverage, co-pays, and benefits; communicate with patients and clinics about coverage. | Certificate or diploma; strong communication and data-entry skills; basic coding knowledge helpful | $32k-$46k per year; $15-$22/hour |
Education, certifications, and how to qualify for entry-level roles
While some clinics hire with on-the-job training, most entry-level seekers benefit from a formal credential. Certifications demonstrate proficiency, help you stand out in applicant tracking systems, and accelerate career advancement.
Core certifications to consider
- Certified Professional C coder (CPC) – AAPC: Widely recognized for coding proficiency in outpatient and physician-based settings.
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) – AHIMA: Focused on hospital inpatient coding and complex coding scenarios.
- RHIA / RHIT – Registered Health Information administrator / Technician – AHIMA: Broad HIM credentials covering data management, privacy, and coding.
- Certificate in Medical billing and Coding – Postsecondary programs or community colleges: Great for fast entry with practical skills.
Tip: If you’re unsure which certification to pursue, start with a medical billing and coding certificate and then specialize with CPC or CCS as you gain experience. Many employers value hands-on skills and reliability as much as a certificate.
Where to study and how to choose a program
- Community colleges and vocational schools frequently enough offer 6-12 month programs.
- Online programs provide flexibility for working students; ensure the program is accredited and includes a practicum or internship.
- Look for programs that prepare you for industry-standard software (electronic health records, billing software) and include CPT/ICD-10 coding practice.
- Consider programs with career services, resume help, and job placement guarantees or strong alumni networks.
How to break into entry-level medical billing and coding: practical steps
: Decide which entry-level path aligns with your interests-billing, coding, or eligibility verification. : Complete a certificate or diploma program that includes hands-on training and a practicum. : Seek internships,part-time roles,or volunteer work in medical offices to build real-world experience. : Highlight relevant coursework,software knowledge (EHRs,billing platforms),and any practicum experience. : Emphasize billing/coding keywords such as CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS, payer requirements, denial management, and AR. : Be ready to discuss your coding accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to handle confidential data. : If you haven’t yet, obtain CPC, CCS, or RHIA/RHIT to improve advancement prospects.
Salary, demand, and career outlook for entry-level roles
The demand for skilled entry-level medical billing and coding professionals remains strong due to healthcare administration needs, aging populations, and the push for efficient revenue cycle management. Salary varies by location,specialty,and experience. As you gain experience and pursue certifications, you can expect higher earning potential and expanded responsibilities.
Rough salary ranges for entry-level roles (U.S.), as a general guide:
- Medical Billing Clerk: $34k-$42k per year
- Medical Biller: $38k-$50k per year
- Medical Coder (Entry-level): $40k-$54k per year
- Insurance Verifier: $32k-$46k per year
Keep in mind that salaries can be higher in urban areas or within large health systems, and remote or hybrid roles may offer competitive compensation plus flexibility.
Practical tips for success in your first year
- Choose software to learn: Epic,Medisoft,Kareo,NextGen,or PracticeSuite are common. Proficiency matters to employers.
- Document your achievements: Track accuracy in coding assessments, denial rate improvements, or time-to-claim submission metrics during your practicum.
- Seek mentorship: Find an experienced coder or biller who can review your work and provide feedback.
- Stay compliant: Understand patient privacy laws (HIPAA) and data security best practices to protect sensitive information.
- Continue learning: Add one new area of expertise each year-payers’ policies, specialty coding (cardiology, orthopedics), or revenue cycle analytics.
case studies and first-hand experiences
Real-world examples can illuminate the path from training to a prosperous entry-level role. Here are two concise case studies that illustrate practical journeys.
Case Study 1: Maria’s leap into medical billing
maria completed a 9-month medical billing certificate, landed an internship at a community clinic, and became proficient with insurance verifications and claims submissions. After six months, she earned a promotion to a full-time Billing Clerk role and pursued CPC certification to expand into coding duties.
Case Study 2: James starts with insurance verification
James started as an Insurance Verifier,focusing on eligibility checks and patient communication. He built a solid understanding of payer rules and CPT coding in parallel, then transitioned into a Medical Coder role after obtaining CPC, leading to higher pay and broader responsibilities.
Tools, software, and skills that help you stand out
Developing a practical toolkit will boost your employability and efficiency in daily tasks:
- Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems: Epic, MEDITECH, NextGen, kareo
- Medical billing software: Kareo Billing, advancedmd, Athenahealth
- Coding platforms: ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS coding knowledge; practice coding exercises
- Denials management and AR tracking tools
- Strong data entry, time management, and communication skills
First-hand tips from professionals in the field
Here are quick, practical takeaways from people who started at entry level and advanced their careers:
- Consistency beats speed: Accuracy in coding leads to fewer denials and faster payments.
- Ask questions early: Clarify payer policies and coding guidelines to avoid errors.
- Build a portfolio: Keep a record of sample claims and coded charts to discuss in interviews.
- Network with peers: Join local coding/billing groups or online communities to learn best practices and job openings.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about entry-level medical billing and coding roles:
- Do I need a bachelor’s degree? Not for most entry-level roles. A certificate or associate degree is typically sufficient to start, with room to grow via certifications and experience.
- Can I work remotely? Yes. Many medical billing and coding roles offer remote or hybrid work arrangements, especially in outpatient settings and smaller practices.
- How long does it take to get certified? Certification timelines vary. A CPC or CCS prep course can take a few months,depending on your schedule and study pace.
- What is the best starter role? If you enjoy client contact and administrative tasks,insurance verification can be a good start. If you prefer coding, start with a biller/entry-level coder role and advance later.
Conclusion: Start today and build a healthcare career that lasts
Entry-level medical billing and coding offers a practical, accessible entry point into the healthcare sector. With the right combination of targeted education, key certifications, and hands-on practice, you can launch a stable career that grows with you. The work is meaningful-helping healthcare providers deliver timely care while ensuring patients understand their bills. Take the first step by enrolling in a reputable certificate program, pursuing a relevant certification, and actively seeking hands-on opportunities to apply what you’ve learned. Your healthcare career can begin today,one well-placed claim and one accurate code at a time.
Ready to kickstart your journey? Explore accredited programs near you or online, check for practicum opportunities, and set a concrete plan with short-term milestones. Your future as a skilled medical billing and coding professional is within reach.
If you’d like more tailored guidance, tell us your location, preferred work style (onsite vs. remote), and whether you’re aiming for coding, billing, or verification. we’ll suggest a personalized, step-by-step plan to help you land your first entry-level role.
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