** Will coders eventually be replaced by computer programs?
No. A medical coder would still be needed to navigate the program. Coding is not always black and white. There is a lot of gray.
** Will this field continue to grow?
Yes. It's one of the top 10 fastest growing professions, according to the Dept. of Labor.
** What is the typical salary of a coder? That really depends on where you're working. Hospital vs Clinic or
West Coast vs Mid West. Typical wage around Sacramento is $19-$23 hour to start.
** Do I need a medical background to do this?
No. You will have to have a grip on medical terminology and anatomy & physiology.
** ICD 10 is coming. Do I have to retest for that and will it make coding harder?
No. With ICD- 10 coming in the year 2013, you will need to bone up on your anatomy and medical terminology.
** When will you begin teaching ICD-10 coding?
Fall of 2012.
** Can I work from home being in this profession?
Yes. Several hospitals in the Sacramento area are doing that already.