Sometimes I run into messages from some of our graduates that were posted on the old boards or sent to me in e-mail. Some of them, with identifying information removed, might be very helpful to current students who need a kick-start in finding that first job. Here are a few of them to give you some ideas, including some very creative career moves.
I went to work at [removed] Medical Center as an outpatient coder for ancillary services. Within 6 months I progressed to ER's, outpatient clinics, OB outpatient, day surgeries and observation patients. There was no holding me back! I had a real desire to learn all different patient types and had a great boss that was willing to teach and let me grow. I also moved into inpatient coding for children and OB moms and babies. All this was accomplished within the first year.
Self-placed in hospital doing outpatient coding
I wanted to let you know that I passed the CCS-P exam! I got my test results back today. I am going to take the CCS in June. My job is going great. I am really enjoying inpatient coding. I am also doing outpatient surgeries and skilled nursing charts. It is such interesting and challenging work and I love it! Thank you again for running such a great school!
Student with both CPC and CCS: Just accepted job. There was a 7-hour test. The interviewer was impressed with her training since she had no working experience other than the school. Had her flown in, paid her hotel for another 3-hour interview. Hired to work from home. He said he had looked at hundreds of resumes. “On paper they looked good” but not in the interview. She was told, “With your double credentialing, you can ask more money.
I’m remote coding for Baptist Hospital in [removed].