In healthcare, medical billing and coding may seem like a job that happens behind the scenes, but it’s a field full of complexity and impact. Mia Lewis, a Certified Professional Coder and Account Manager in Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) at Advantum Health, has spent 20 years in this career, finding excitement in the details and changes of her work. Here, Mia talks about her path into the field, the challenges she faces, and what she loves most about her role.
Mia’s journey in healthcare didn’t start in coding; it began in the radiology department scheduling appointments and later in managing medical records. “This experience gave me a strong foundation in healthcare operations,” Mia says, “and from there, I developed an interest in the intricacies of medical billing and coding. It was a natural progression into a role where I could apply both my organizational skills and attention to detail.”
After working in healthcare, Mia decided to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville, where she studied Business Management. This education helped prepare her to understand both the administrative and technical sides of the healthcare industry.
Mia’s favorite part of her job is finding solutions to challenges. “I love diving into the details and knowing that my attention to precision plays a critical role in the financial health of healthcare providers,” she says. For Mia, ensuring that her work is accurate not only benefits her employer but helps make the billing process easier, faster, and more efficient.
The field of medical billing and coding is always changing. New coding guidelines, updates to insurance regulations, and advanced billing software mean that coders like Mia must constantly stay informed and adapt. “Staying compliant with ICD, CPT, and HCPCS updates is crucial,” she explains, referring to different sets of healthcare coding standards. “Any missteps can lead to denials or delays in payment.”
Right now, one of the biggest challenges Mia faces is managing denied or rejected claims. Insurance companies are becoming stricter with their requirements, so accurate coding and proper documentation are essential. Long term, Mia sees a need for more training in new technologies and adapting to ongoing changes in regulations.
Advantum Health has created a culture that encourages growth, and for Mia, this support has been key to her career. “The company culture here is incredibly supportive and fosters growth,” she says. “I’ve had the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues, participate in continuous professional development, and take on leadership roles.” This supportive and innovative atmosphere has not only helped her develop her skills but has also encouraged her to think outside the box and find new ways to approach challenges.
Outside of work, Mia enjoys trying new foods and exploring new restaurants. “I’m a big fan of eating out and trying new restaurants, especially anything with a unique twist on classic dishes,” she says. She also loves shopping for home décor and visiting local boutiques when she travels. For Mia, traveling and spending time with family are essential parts of life, and she often combines these activities to make lasting memories.
Mia Lewis’s dedication to detail and her ability to adapt to the constant changes in medical coding and billing make her an essential part of Advantum Health’s team. Her story shows how meaningful work can be when you bring passion, resilience, and a desire to grow every day.