I don't mean to sound discouraging, but it is very difficult. I finished my medical insurance billing classes back in June 2008 (2-1/2 years worth of schooling), and I'm in the same predicament as you are. I keep asking myself,
"Did I make a mistake by choosing this field even though I was told and read repeatedly that there is a demand for coders?" It seems like we're not allowed to get into this field--as if we're being deliberately held back.
It's very frustrating!
I didn't pass the certification exam, but I will take it again this fall. The operating reports really got to me, because we weren't really taught how to dissect
extreme operating reports. Even those who've been certified for five years now are having a hard time getting a job. This was when the economy was good.
I'm seriously planning a back up plan, because I have bills to pay, and I don't have time for these hurdles that are being thrown at us!
Nevertheless, I really love coding, but love is not going to pay these bills!
There will continue to be a shortage of coders, and that CPC certification test--starting from the year 2008--is overwhelming!
I can understand why CPC certification and two to five years' experience is required, but we have to start somewhere.