How important is it to be fluent in medical terms if you want to be a medical claims/coding specialist?
Asked by Shae
I am taking a coarse in medical coding and billing and I just wanted to know if all of these vocabulary terms were needed or if I could just buy a medical dictionary. I don't want them artificially inflating my schooling, delaying me from starting my future career. Thank you!

Best Answer:
Understanding medical terminology is absolutely critical to be a medical claims/coding specialist. How would you ever be able to code a procedure if you don't know what it IS? If you are given the diagnosis of fracture, third metacarpophalangeal joint and don't know if that is located in the foot, hand or elbow, how would you be able to identify the appropriate code? Yes, you could look it up in a medical dictionary, but if you have to look up every word/procedure, you will not be efficient at your work.

It's very important. If you really know the terminology, you will do a better job. If you don't really know the terminology, you will be mediocre at best.
Answered by majnun99

It is very important to know this terminology. Many positions in this field REQUIRE experience or at least knowledge of medical terminology through experience or training. There are several classes available in medical terminology, many are just a few months (or less). I would reccommend you commit the time necessary to obtain a certificate in this area if you are serious about entering the medical field. This will be a requirment in most of the positions related to medical/clinical settings, and is one of the quickest certificates and/or experiences to obtain. I reccommend you search vocational schools for this training. Hope this helps! =O) Daniel Newell Employment Specialist
Answered by Daniel N

Learn the medical terminology, and keep the medical dictionary handy for unfamiliar (or forgotten) terms.
Answered by backinbowl