Although a degree is not always required to become a medical coordinator, you should consider obtaining a college degree in a medical or business related field. Due to the primarily administrative duties of this profession, you will also need to take various business courses. This profession usually requires that you have a functional knowledge of various office computer programs in addition to being familiar with medical terminology and other health services information. Training and experience is essential to become a medical coordinator, and you may want to gain employment in a medical facility in order to observe the industry.
You should complete your two or four year degree at a university that has the various coursework you will need to become a medical coordinator. The types of courses you may want to consider are accounting, finance, business administration, medical financial management, medical information management, patient satisfaction, health care marketing, and conflict resolution and negotiation in health care. Not all universities will offer theses courses, and you may need to research a number of schools before applying. Students may opt to work on either an associate's or bachelor's degree, but a four year degree will enhance your chances to become a medical coordinator and may increase career advancement opportunities.
While in school, you should begin to look into training programs or experience opportunities. There are many locations that offer hands-on training programs, and you may want to research on the Internet for online programs or classes in your area. These programs are relatively short and are usually offered on nights and weekends. If time allows, you may want to enroll in a training course before you graduate from a university in order to expedite finding employment after college. Computer classes are equally important because a large portion of this career is based on office work.
Daily tasks will include data entry, project assessments, evaluating medical programs, and attending a number of meetings with other professionals. You will need to be organized, extremely computer literate, possess problem-solving abilities, and have business initiative. In addition to being extremely efficient in office work, you will need to have excellent communication skills, patience, and a caring personality because medical professions are based on professional and patient relations. Once you have become a medical coordinator, there are continuing education courses in both business and medical subjects that can keep you up-to-date with all industry changes.
