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ADVANCE Perspective: HIM

Are You Changing Careers?

Published June 18, 2008 4:30 PM by Lynn Jusinski
I'm working on a story that deals with making a transition but staying within HIM. I'm seeking out people who've made the switch from MT to coder, from coder to cancer registrar, from coder to MT-along those lines.

Out at conferences, and even sometimes on phone interviews, I often have people ask me about "the other side." MTs question me about coders, what they do and what training is needed. Coders ask similar questions about MTs. Plus, two of our bloggers, Jeanne and Carol, are currently going through transitions of their own right now, so we figured these transitions that are occurring within HIM warranted an article in our print edition.

If you are currently going through a transition, or have already made the switch, from one field of HIM to another, contact me and we can set up a time to talk. You'll get a chance to see the article before it goes to print to make sure everything's accurate. I look forward to hearing from all of you adventurous types out there!

3 comments

I'm a Registered Nurse of 20 yrs and am READY FOR A CHANGE!!! I'm unable to decide between Medical Transcription or Medical Coding. I'm ready to start back to school NOW, but keep flip-flopping as to which one to pursue. My MAIN objective is to work from home. Any comments? Thoughts? Pros/cons? Still looking for that one thing that will help make the final decision. THanks!

Linda, RN July 6, 2008 1:31 PM
San ANtonio TX

Right out of school I thought I would do transcription forever.  I was a MT for 12 years, but an opportunity came along to become the coder/CD specialist at this facility so I took it.  It has been 7 years and very interesting to say the least.  It is a continuous learning process and well worth the effort.  I love it because you never really get bored, you learn something new everyday.  

Lisa, Medical Records - Coder/CDI , Mercy Special Care July 3, 2008 10:41 AM
Nanticoke PA

Your project sounds interesting!  I have been an MT for 30 years, starting off in the dental field and gradually learning other specialties through the years.  I was ready for a change, but since I own a small MT business, I didn't want to veer too far from the familiar field of MT.  I took an adult school class on Coding Basics and didn't finish the class, in that one of my MT clients asked me to do to their coding for them (Urgent Care Facility).  I definitely learned as I went along!  I'm looking forward to taking my certification exam in the fall and I simply love both fields!

Diane Weissenberger, MT/Coding - MT Business Owner, Clinic June 21, 2008 4:51 PM
Downey CA

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