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Medical billing and coding pros are like the behind-the-scenes heroes of Maryland’s healthcare scene. They make sure patients’ records have the right codes so doctors get paid by insurance companies, keeping the whole system running smoothly. This job offers a lot of variety, both in what you do and how much you can make. So, if you’re thinking about a career in medical billing and coding, it’s important to know what you can expect to earn so you can make the best decision for you.
Snapshot of medical billing and coding in MD
There are roughly 3,040 people employed as medical records specialists in Maryland, which is impressive for a state that only had 6.177 million people in 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median hourly wage is $29 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 8.5%.
Some of the biggest employers in the state of Maryland may include:
- Johns Hopkins Hospital:
- Baltimore, MD. Part of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital is the largest of the six hospitals operated by Johns Hopkins Medicine, which is a non-profit academic health system.
- University of Maryland Medical Centre:
- Baltimore, MD. This teaching hospital is affiliated with the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is known for trauma, cancer, neurological and cardiac care, and women’s health and organ transplant services.
- Sinai Hospital of Baltimore:
- Baltimore, MD. Sinai Hospital is hospital gets high marks in adult procedures and conditions related to heart and kidney failure, colon cancer surgery, maternity care, stroke management and COPD.
- Ashkar Health Care Solutions LLC:
- Catonsville, MD. AHCS offers medical billing, practice management and consulting services for medical practices and healthcare facilities in the state.
- MedStar Health:
- Columbia, MD. With 10 hospitals and 280 specialty, urgent and primary care locations, MedStar Health is a leading healthcare provider in Maryland, .
Medical billing and coding salary Maryland statistics
Although the typical national income for medical records specialists—encompassing both billers and coders—stands slightly over $48,780 annually, compensation can fluctuate based on various factors. These include your location, experience level, earned certifications and billing and coding education.
Median medical biller and coder salary in MD
The median annual salary for medical billers and coders in Maryland is an impressive $59,990. However, it’s important to note that salaries may vary based on experience, education, industry and location within the state.
Medical Records Specialists
10%$38,750
25%$46,240
50%$59,990Median
75%$79,170
90%$90,840
Median Hourly Wage$29
Job growth8.5%
Total Employment3,040
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | $60,840 | $39,110 | $84,430 |
| California-Lexington Park, MD | $54,140 | $38,020 | $71,450 |
| Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV | $54,140 | $37,140 | $88,060 |
| Cumberland, MD-WV | $52,600 | $36,880 | $64,330 |
| Salisbury, MD-DE | $49,810 | $33,170 | $72,520 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 median salary; projected job growth through 2032. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for medical billers and coders in Maryland
The salary range for medical billing and coding professionals in Maryland typically spans from $38,750 to $90,840 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education, whether or not you are self-employed or employed by a company and time in the position.
Employment by Maryland metro area
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work in healthcare and you live in a city that has several high-profile hospitals or healthcare industries, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as the highest employment numbers for the top 10 cities in the U.S. As you can see, Maryland shares the number seven spot for the highest level of employment of medical billers and coders in the U.S.
Marland salary growth and job outlook
With a job growth rate of 8.5% through 2032, Maryland holds a lot of opportunity for medical billers and coders. With its median pay also being above the national median, Maryland essentially hires about 1.14 workers per 1,000 people in the state’s population.
Factors affecting medical biller and coder salaries in MD
Several factors can influence the salary potential in the medical billing and coding field in Maryland. These factors may include:
- Experience:
- The number of years of experience you have in the healthcare industry can significantly impact your earning potential. Entry-level professionals may start at a lower salary, while those with extensive experience and expertise can command higher salaries.
- Education and certifications:
- The level of education you have achieved and any relevant certifications can contribute to your salary. Advanced degrees and specialized certifications may result in higher earning potential.
- Industry and company size:
- The industry you work in and the size of the company can affect salary ranges. Certain industries may offer higher compensation, and larger companies often have more resources to provide competitive salaries.
- Geographic location and cost of living:
- Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location within Maryland. Urban areas and regions with higher costs of living typically offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses. It’s essential to consider the cost of living when assessing salary offers and opportunities.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a medical biller or coder in Maryland?
There are several ways to discern whether or not your pay is equitable, and you should consider the following resources if you are concerned about your salary:
- Do your research. Research employment and job sites such as Glassdoor and Payscale to see what the salary averages are in your city and/or state. Use the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website to find median pay for cities, states and nationally.
- Be observant in your workplace. Do you see other people receiving special privileges, such as bonuses or additional benefits? Would it seem possible that they may also receive more for doing the same job? Consider length of employment and equity of duties as well.
- Be transparent in the right way. If you believe a wage imbalance exists between you and another staff member doing the same job, ask your employer about it directly. It’s always best to be transparent, but you should try and utilize the correct channels. Most employers frown upon employees discussing their pay with each other.
There are federal laws that protect workers regarding pay, and many states have some form of an equal opportunity or equal pay in employment act, and Maryland is no different. The Maryland Department of Labor enforces the Maryland Equal Pay for Equal Work act in the state and provides a complaint form to file at the DLLR website if you believe you are being discriminated against as far as pay.
Maryland education and training
The educational requirements for medical billing and coding professionals in Maryland can vary based on the specific role and employer. However, a typical educational pathway may include:
- Launch your journey with education: Ignite your career path by acquiring a certificate in medical billing or coding. Completing this program, which typically takes six to 12 months, equips you with the essential skills and knowledge required for success. Choose your preferred learning style, whether it’s the convenience of online instruction or the interactive setting of a classroom.
- Attain professional recognition: Elevate your credentials and join the ranks of certified medical billers and coders by passing the AAPC certification exam. This rigorous assessment validates your expertise and demonstrates your commitment to professional standards, enhancing your competitive edge in the healthcare industry.
- Navigate the licensing landscape: While Maryland doesn’t mandate licensing for medical billers and coders, understanding the employer landscape is crucial. A vast majority of healthcare organizations in the state require their medical billing and coding staff to be certified, demonstrating their commitment to high-quality patient care and accurate billing practices. Obtaining certification, therefore, becomes a vital step in unlocking rewarding career opportunities in Maryland’s healthcare sector.
Additionally, ongoing professional development, earning more advanced certifications and industry-specific training can significantly contribute to your knowledge and advancement within the healthcare information and medical billing and coding field.
Cost of living considerations for MD
When evaluating medical billing and coding salaries in different areas of Maryland, it’s crucial to consider the cost of living. The cost of housing, transportation, health care and other expenses can vary across cities or regions. Assessing the cost of living helps you gauge how salaries align with local expenses and make more informed decisions about job opportunities or potential relocation.
RentCafe says the most expensive places to live in Maryland include Bethesda and Chevy Chase while cities that had the lowest cost of living include Baltimore City, Bel Air, Brunswick, Easton and Greenbelt, some of which are Baltimore suburbs so have ready commuter access to the big healthcare employers for medical billing and coding.
Maryland professional associations and networking
Joining professional associations, networking groups, or industry events that cater to medical billing and coding professionals in Maryland may help students and working professionals connect with their communities, access resources and stay updated on industry developments within the state. here are just a few Maryland-based organizations for medical billers and coders in the state:
- MdHIMA: MdHIMA is the Maryland chapter of the national organization, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
- HIMSS Maryland Chapter: With over 2,000 members throughout Maryland, the state chapter of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) provides leadership in the advancement and effective use of technology for all aspects of care.
- Maryland Association for Healthcare Quality: A state-based non-profit organization that provides opportunities to support the professional development of healthcare professionals through education, advocacy and communication.
The medical billing and coding salary guide for Maryland aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding the profession within the state. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiate salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Written and reported by:
All Allied Health Schools Staff
Published: December 6, 2023