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Coders Wanted: Will Not Train
By Linda Gross
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Regarding ICD-10 implementation with a specified date of October 1, 2013, is it possible this will change the outlook for new HIM / Coding personnel coming out of school?

I have heard some coders who have been working with ICD-9 for years say that when the time comes to convert, they would rather retire from the field than retrain for ICD-10 and hassle with all of the challenges that will accompany the transition.

If this is true and at least 25% of the coding work force does indeed decide to leave the field of coding in Fall of 2013, does this mean there will be more room for new / aspiring coders with good foundational training to break in to the business?

Won't employers be starting to think about this over the next couple of years as we move closer to the conversion date? After all, newcomers to the field are NOT hung up on ICD-9, and are open to training for ICD-10, in addition to having the fresh energy and enthusiasm needed to take on the challeges that will accompany the transition. Won't this count for something as October 1, 2013 approaches?

Elizabeth Hunt,  Student,  Tacoma Community CollegeMay 15, 2009
Enumclaw, WA

I am wondering -- now that ICD-10 is a definite on the horizon, slated for adoption in October 2013, will this change certain employers' outlook on hiring new HIM/Coding trainees fresh out of school?

Though entry level personnel who are green and still need to gain their real world experience, they are also NOT attached to ICD-9, and are very open to the idea of learning all about ICD-10 and how to use it.

In 2013 and 2014, many coders who have been in the field working with ICD-9 for several years may decide to retire rather than retrain on the new system. Then there really will be a need, in my opinion, for newcomers to the profession who can pick up where they left off. Am I very far off?

Elizabeth Hunt,  Student,  Tacoma Comm. Coll.May 15, 2009
Tacoma, WA

AHIMA programs for RHIT and RHIA do offer a practium. A CCS is not even recommended until you have experience. AAPC's people are hitting the same brick wall only harder. Just get on the internet and look at the open discussion forums discussing coding, they are on there by the droves saying they can't find a job.

Cathy PearsonMarch 15, 2009

Why doesn't AHIMA have an Intership/Externship program similar to AAPC and Alfred? There are so many new grads and those of us nearing graduation, as well as newly certified students that face the "brick wall" eluded too above.

Any insight or response is greatly appreciated.

Glinda May 10, 2008


     

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