How to land a medical coding internship?

Medical coding is a steadily growing field, doctors and healthcare facilities require experts who are able to identify medical codes in split seconds. Before applying for a full time medical coding job role it's better to learn the ropes through a mentor or senior at a reputed clinic or hospital. This could help boost your resume and upgrade your skill quotient.

Now landing an internship requires planning, here are some points to note that can help speed up your planning:

Get Certified from a reputed institution

Medical certification programs from a good school is a good way to start adding to your skill quotient. Certification programs from accredited institutes such as American Academy of Professional Coders and American Health Management Information Association will impress recruiters.

Start Building your resume and draft a cover letter

While pursuing or gaining knowledge for medical coding make sure to add them to your resume. Any certification or training program or even a seminar can make a difference when you apply for an internship. If you have a stronger affinity to a certain coding system mention that in your strengths section

Talk to your mentor or lecturer

Make sure to ask for advice from a senior who is more experienced in medical coding. They might be aware of any internship openings or training programs at their workplace and might be able to offer your interview tips. Their experience will help you find a path for future career opportunities in this field.

Volunteering and Practical Training

Medical facilities often encourage volunteer programs for students and new medical trainees. You can join such a program and gain hands-on practical training while assisting doctors during outpatient visits and billing. Volunteering is positively received by recruiters and can help you get a leg up while applying.

Apply Strategically

Read through internship job descriptions thoroughly before applying. New job seekers often make the mistake of applying for internships that do not match their future plans or their field of study. Keep monitoring the job boards of reputed institutes including AAPC’s Xtern and AHIMA.

Interview Preparation

Recruiters review your knowledge and study your behaviour before deciding to accept you as an intern. Healthcare facilities prefer candidates that value the knowledge provided and are precise with medical coding. Research about them and their style of work, it shows that you are eager to work with them

Stay Connected

Respond to any queries from recruiters promptly and keep following up for medical coding openings. Use job post websites such as linkedin to stay connected and look for openings that will help further your career prospects.