Hi,

I am an unemployed outpatient coder and have been looking for a job for over 8 months.  I have over 7 years of experience, however, I don't have certification.  Could this be posing a problem in the current job marked  and that is what's  keeping me from finding a position? I have a fear that if I do get certified, I still won't find a job.  I am afraid that this time away from work is very detrimental for my resume and I hope people will not think I have forgotten so much.  I went a year without coding in my first job at a hospital, but I was still working around people that had med speak.  Can I get at least a little encouragement out there??  I have been unable to test sooner because of the money involved for the test and new books.  I should have some pretty soon.  I find jobs that match my experience, but say require certified applicants.  I apply anyway, but maybe I should wait to after I am certified.  I am going nuts just thinking about the position I am in:  I have a degree.  I have experience and still have no job.  Very Depressing!

Thank you for letting me vent.

Claire