A community of 30,000 US Transcriptionist serving Medical Transcription Industry
Job at home after Andrews? - anon
Posted: Apr 30, 2014
Hello. I was told by the student coordinator and Linda Andrews herself that people who have finished their course and gotten their credentials have gotten jobs from home. I think it was 1 in 4. Just wondering if any of you have been those 1 in 4? They also told me it may be more like 50% in a year or so. Thanks!
I am not one of the 1 in 4 - Coding grad
[ In Reply To ..]While I think remote coding may be an option in the future, as a recent coding graduate, I am quite sure I am not ready to work remotely. I have SO much to learn.
Work from home - jobs for coding
[ In Reply To ..]I am not an Andrews grad but I agree with you completely about working from home as a new grad. The facility I work at requires all coders to work onsite for a year. Coding for a facility is very different than coding in school. As the least experienced coder on my team I appreciate having coders around to help as there is a lot of grey areas in coding. You could try and get in with a hospital/clinic onsite; that is what I did.
work at home coding - anon
[ In Reply To ..]I remember several of the new grads posting on our Andrews board that they were able to get an at home job, so it is possible. I did get a job, but I am working in an office and definitely need still some help with some of the nuances of coding, as well as learning their specific guidelines and rules for the different insurance companies.
Telecommuting - Multi-certified Coder
[ In Reply To ..]I noticed that you didn't state what school you graduated from your what credentials you hold. Education and credentials play a big part in how well you will do on the job.
I find your remark "I truly hope these coding schools seriously think about telling their potential students that remote coding is the future because, honestly, I am not comfortable with this." to be a rather slanted viewpoint.
I'm an Andrews graduate and earned my first two credentials right after graduation and my first job was as an inpatient coder working remote. It has been done and is being done currently by new and experienced coders.
Not every facility does things the same way. Whether a coder or any employee is allowed to telecommute depends on many factors. At my facility we have coders, HIM, CDI's and top level executives that work remote. It does not make any one of us less professional than someone that goes in to an office every day.
The atmosphere of the office at each facility will also differ. Some facilities are very chatty and their coders are more than willing to stop and answer questions anytime. However, there are also facilities that have coding offices that are completely silent. You sit in your cubical and don't speak to anyone. If you have a question you email your supervisor. You have just as much access to help and advice working remote as you do working in the office.
There are many differences in the requirements each facility has about remote coders. Some require 6 months or more on site and some will allow telecommuting from the start. The prevailing attitude when working remote or in an office is just get the job done.
That being said personality has a great deal to do with a persons desire to work in an office or to telecommute. Some people like the social aspect of working in an office with other people and some like the idea of not wasting time in traffic, worrying about parking and being able to have more personal time.
Whether you are comfortable with telecommuting or not it is being done in many facilities across the country. In fact more companies of all types now offer telecommuting than ever before.
thats what I was thinking Multi Certified Coder - see inside
[ In Reply To ..]Most on site places are not going to want to do a lot of hand holding even with new coders. You will be emailing your supervisor anyway so why not work remotely??? Maybe it's my age but I prefer to communicate by email, texting or instant messaging, that way I have something to refer to the next time the issue comes up again and I can't remember exactly what someone said. Much more effective way of communication.
Why? - WXYZ
[ In Reply To ..]You may need an answer right away, your supervisor might not answer your e-mail. Sometimes explanations can be lost in translation. Sometimes a person needs to see an example. From what you say, I gather that you are not currently coding. There is a reason most facilities require people to work on site for a year. If you try it at home without working on site first, prepare to tear out your hair. Also, there are other advantages to being on site such as access to the providers and other people in your department. The most effective way of communication has been, and always will be, face to face, unless you really enjoy social isolation.
Hmm... - Thoughts on this
[ In Reply To ..]There are few coding emergencies, so the maturity to tolerate delayed gratification is a quality we look for in applicants. We expect everyone to answer their email in an appropriate timeframe, so we look for applicants who can prioritize. We even teach classes in using Outlook to help with that. When people need to see an example, they can look at our computer online. We teach classes in networking and conferencing that way, too. We don't let anyone work at home until they can handle the software and hardware. Interesting that you know all about the hair-tearing, since you work as a chart abstractor, not a coder. We do not need to access providers on site, because we have email. They are too busy to be pestered in person on the floors and are never in our areas, since we have no paper records. Accessing others in our department or anywhere else is easy enough by instant messaging, email, and telephone. Even gossip works fine that way. It would be difficult to fit in with us if someone held the belief that communication had to be FTF to be effective. It has nothing to do with enjoying social isolation. Sometimes it has to do with being 5 miles or 5 states away. Other times, it has to do with being deaf.
Someone above made a good point that email and IM provided a record of what was said. That is helpful for both management and employees. That's why we use it.
Telecommuting - Pondering2codefrmMinn
[ In Reply To ..]As someone that has never worked from home, I am curious how one balances out work duties from home life. I do not have small needy children or many other interferences but wonder what the TAT usually is. Are you expected at your home work station during certain hours or can you arrange your own schedule to meet your own needs and availability? I thought I would put this question out there since I don't see many ppl discussing it. Thank you.
Remote coding - sm
[ In Reply To ..]We have a lot of employees who work remotely all or part of the time. The fact that they are at home does not mean they are "at home," so to speak. They are in an office in their home, but they are working EXACTLY as they would be on site. We don't let anyone go home who has difficulty balancing work and home life, or who is not already highly productive. Many of them have webcams for conferencing, and they dress professionally.
Others I know who work for contract companies d not work if and when they feel like it, either. They set a schedule and keep it.
The mommies-in-jammies thing played a role in the lack of respect, low pay, and poor working conditions that MT experienced. I don't think anyone wants to repeat that with coding or any other HIM position.
Similar Messages:
MT Home Course From At Home Professions?
Jan 27, 2010
Any info on the MT home course from At Home Professions? ...
M Tec Or Andrews?
Jun 03, 2010
I am an LPN looking into the field of MT. I am tired of standing on my feet for 2-3 hour med passes and lifting and turning patients. I am ready to work hard from home. I understand that both M Tec and Andrews are great schools. Is one better then the other? How do experienced MT's feel about the two? Thanks!! ...
Andrews
Oct 06, 2012
I'm considering Andrews coding, but would love some feedback for those who enrolled that had no medical or MT background. I have very little medical background and it seems the MT's are favored as they are more familiar with terminology. For those enrolled how do you like the course? Do you find the course interesting? I already know its challenging! Thanks for any info you can provide! ...
Andrews Or CCO??
Feb 05, 2015
I'm trying to do as much research as possible into changing careers from MT to coding, and I've narrowed down my two choices of schools to Andrews and CCO (CodingCertificate.Org). According to CCO's website, they now offer courses that will prepare you to take the CCS exam. I've heard positive things about CCO, but I've also heard positive things about Andrews, and how thorough it is, but also that it's very difficult. I would love to hear either f ...
Just Enrolled At Andrews!
May 11, 2010
Okay, so after much debate and research, I enrolled in Andrews course for coding yesterday! :) Now I'm just waiting for my materials to arrive, reading over my 1st set of instructions, and trying to navigate my way through loads of information on the student forum. All I can say is WOW. I think this course is going to be wonderful and very challenging. I'm actually a bit overwhelmed at the moment! LOL! But I'm excited! ...
Linda Andrews?
May 23, 2010
When this board first started up Linda was on here quite often but haven't seen her in a while. Oh well, just noticing. Wow, this board has taken off! ...
To Linda Andrews
May 25, 2010
Per the request you sent via email, I have tried to call the number you provided four times but only get your voicemail. I did call during office hours. If you wish to communicate, email me again and let me know when I can reach you. I do not give out my number, which is unpublished for personal reasons, nor do I provide my email address to individuals I do not know personally. ...
Why Is CS So Much Cheaper Than Andrews?
Aug 27, 2010
Just wondering what the difference in price is? CS has a much more impressive website and they have been very good at answering my questions. Why would they be so much cheaper? ...
CCS Without RHIT (Considering Andrews)
Feb 26, 2011
Coders: In a situation where a new graduate of a program has the CCS but not the RHIT, do you believe this would be an obstacle to finding employment? I notice some jobs say CCS or RHIT and some want both. I am weighing the pros and cons between attending a program that I know will prepare me to pass the CCS (Andrews) versus a program to earn a degree that will make me eligible to take the RHIT and, hopefully, pass the CCS. For background, I am a medical transcriptionist and also will graduate ...
For Those Of You Who Have Graduated From Andrews
Jan 19, 2012
Are any of you actually working as coders? ...
Andrews Students...
Feb 06, 2012
For those of you who are past or present Andrews students... how did you/are you paying for your course? I know you can either put a down payment or pay in full. Just curious, thanks. ...
Deciding On Andrews BUT
Feb 26, 2012
I know Andrews does not give out any discounts on their $3,800 charge, but are there ways to get help lowering the cost through any organizations you are aware of? Thanks. ...
I Did It! I Enrolled In Andrews
Mar 05, 2012
for medical coding. I'm excited and a little nervous. Looking forward to getting started. ...
Any Graduates Of Andrews Or M-Tec?
Sep 04, 2012
Would like to know if any graduates of Andrews or M-Tec became employed shortly after completing course and how much I could be expected to earn on a part-time basis (20 hrs/wk)? ...
Andrews School -- Job
Sep 19, 2012
I am an MT who was laid off from my job and I am seriously considering coding school. So far, I am leaning towards Andrews, they sound the best. My question is, will I be able to find a job that pays well afterwards? I have looked at a few job postings online in my area and it looks like entry level coders are only 10 bucks an hour. This concerns me as I don't want to put out a lot of money for coding school if I am not going to be making much money. Also, ...
Andrews School...which Course To Take?
Nov 13, 2012
This may not be the right board, but I thought I would put it here. I have been interested in taking the coding course through Andrews for over a year now. I was just wondering if that is the way to go or if I should take a different course that they are now offering. They now offer billing and medical management. I know that medical transcription is out because I am already a transcriptionist and that is not going well. Any and all advice is welcome. Thank you. ...
Another Andrews Question
Jul 01, 2013
I have been researching coding schools. I have a local community college which would prepare me for the CPC. I would have to pay out of state tuition, however, which would be substantial. For less money I could take courses with the Andrews School, which seems like it would prepare me for the CPC and the CCS. HOWEVER, when I was reading the requirements for the CCS, it sounds like there are certain education requirements -- are you eligible to take the CCS after you gradu ...
Voc Rehab Or WIA And Andrews?
Jul 05, 2013
Has anyone here gotten Vocational Rehabilitation or WIA to pay for an Andrews course? If so, do they pay the whole thing? Thanks! ...
Does Nuance Not Know About Andrews?
Jul 10, 2013
I just saw their ad on the other job site which says this: Recent graduates Openings for graduates within the last year from the following schools: Career Step (Honors/High Honors) MTEC, INC.Winter Park TechSeminole State College Everett College Not that I would encourage recent graduates or anyone else for that matter to work there. It was one of the worst experiences of my life. I guess I'm just surprised that Andrews isn't included in their stupid list. Of course, Nuance doesn� ...
Best School After Andrews. Sm
Nov 08, 2013
I need financial aid. Andrews doesn't accept Pell grants. etc. Currently I'm on unemployment. Been unemployed for about 2 months now. Have been an MT for 37 years. I applied for WIA funds (workforce investiment act) and included info about Andrews and medical coding in general, i.e., what it is, etc. They won't pay for Andrews or coding for that matter because they say:(1) Its a work at home job. (2) Its an online program and they ca ...
Andrews School....
Feb 12, 2014
I think I've decided on Andrews School for coding. My question is any recent graduates get jobs? How quickly? All openings I've browsed look like they want 3-5 years experience...... ...
Has Anyone Here Completed The Andrews Course And
Apr 02, 2014
not been able to find a coding position? It seems like the best option, but everyone around here locally wants 5 years experience, so I guess the only other way to get started is as a doctor's office receptionist/biller/coder, which is what they do around here & it doesn't pay well at all because most offices will just train you on the job. My 19-year-old daughter got on doing it but started at $8.50/hr, now up to $9. Five years as an office girl at a doctor's offi ...
Andrews School Sm
Apr 29, 2014
Those who went through the Andrews School how long did it take to find a job? Thanks. ...
How To Pay For Andrews School?
Feb 10, 2015
If I could choose a school right now for coding, Andrews would be first choice. I was hoping that someone could share some suggestions for paying for the course. Right now AAPC is having a "sale" on their course which is now 50% off. From my research, though, I think that would not be my first choice, but is muc more affordable than Andrews. Has anyone used any of the Andrews payment plans? How did that work out for you? The cost seems prohibitive to me, but I ...
Andrews Graduates, Did You Get A Job?
Mar 02, 2015
I am seriously considering going into the coding program with Andrews soon. My main concern just lies in finding employment after I finish and become certified. Can any Andrews graduates share their experiences? Were you able to find employment quickly? Was anyone able to start working from home immediately? There are 2 hospitals in my town, but it is not a huge city, and I am afraid employment opportunities may be limited here locally. Anything you can tell me that might be useful would be much ...
Andrews Coding
Mar 21, 2015
I was wondering if anyone has taken the Andrews coding program and if so did you pass the exams? Did you land a job immediately after completing the course? How difficult are the exams and how long did it take to complete the course? I was an MT for years but now I am looking for other options as the MT field has changed way too much and is no longer financially doable for me. ...
Any New Andrews Graduates??
Mar 21, 2015
Just curious if there are any new Andrews graduates (in the last 30 days) that are having success finding a job? I am looking to start this program soon and do not want to jump from the frying pan into the fire, so to speak...been an MT for MANY, MANY years.... Are there jobs out there? How hard are they to find/get? What is general starting pay? Feeling anxious/nervous/excited.... ...
Best Coding Course Besides Andrews?
Apr 09, 2015
Hello all. I am not a troll and am truly wondering if there is a coding course that is more economic than Andrews but still TEACHES you to code? I am an MT but have no experience with coding. Please help! Thanks so much. ...
Andrews Question
Apr 23, 2015
I don't understand why so many people are attending Andrews as it isn't on the AHIMA approved coding certificate program directory. From what I have been reading, Andrews is highly regarded as an excellent school. Am I missing something? ...
How Difficult Is Andrews?
May 03, 2015
I am an MT, I am 51, I haven't been in school for over 30 years. I know there was a discussion below about being too old to start school. But I wonder from the MTs who did this in their 50s, did you have trouble with the work? I am not stupid, I don't feel that I am too old, but I am afraid that I won't be able to do it. Just wondered if anyone else felt the same way. Please no comments about if I don't think I can do it, I won't be abl ...