Insurance Clerk Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

Although the main concern of doctors and hospitals is to take the best care of their patients, many people seem to forget that a hospital and even a private physician’s practice are first and foremost businesses. This means that it is very important that these medical institutions are keeping accurate records about the services rendered and the necessary billing for those services. There is a complicated process of medical records reviewing, coding and translation, issuing bills and working with insurance companies to receive payment in a timely manner. It is the responsibility of the insurance clerk to make sure that patients have filled out their medical forms correctly, that patients have provided accurate information about their insurance coverage and that the hospital or doctor’s office is following the most updated guidelines for Medicare and Medicaid card holders.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$28,900
Salary Range
$19,700 - $38,800

Work Environment

It is most common for insurance clerks to be employed in hospitals, health clinics, public health department, coding and billing companies, nursing homes, dental offices, and government organizations. They often work in an office environment, and must spend most of their day on the computer and answering client questions.

High School Preparation

Those individuals that think they might enjoy the detailed work of an insurance clerk should spend their high school years focusing on new technology, communications and information about the health professions. Supporting courses include algebra, biology, data processing, computer skills, and office management.

Requirements

After completing their high school education, or an approved equivalent, the student that is interested in becoming an insurance clerk should seek to be enrolled in a two year program that covers health administration and insurance processes. It is common for these programs to be offered at medical vocational schools and community colleges. In some states, the governing health administration organization might even offer on the job training for qualified candidates, however, some preliminary education is always desirable. When possible, it is a good idea to complete the health information technician exam that is offered by the American Health Information Management Association.

Career Outlook

The past few years have seen an intense increase in the amount of attention that is being paid to the health care industry and the insurance process. Many people are questioning the high costs and profit margins of these businesses, and companies are taking a closer look at the amount of money that they are paying to cover their policy holders. This means that there will be an increased demand for qualified health insurance clerks who can work quickly and accurately.

Professional Organizations

American Health Information Management Association
919 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60611-1683
Phone: (312) 233-1100
www.ahima.org