12 Best Medical Billing Books For Upskilling In 2025
These books offer a comprehensive look at coding procedures, crucial for managing medical billing effectively and ensuring accurate reimbursement.
Learn about the intricacies of insurance claims and how to maximize reimbursement through clear, detailed knowledge offered in these resources.
Aspiring and seasoned professionals can gain a deeper understanding of healthcare reimbursement systems, enhancing their ability to navigate complex billing processes.
This selection of medical billing books provides a solid understanding of healthcare reimbursement systems. Designed for both aspiring professionals and experienced practitioners, these resources are essential for mastering coding procedures, insurance claims, and compliance standards.
Whether you're entering the field or seeking to sharpen your skills, these books offer practical guidance to improve efficiency and accuracy in medical billing processes and workflows.
12 Best Medical Billing Books Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best medical billing books I think are worth your time in 2025:
- Medical Billing & Coding For Dummies by Karen Smiley
- The Basics Of Medical Billing by Alice Scott and Michele Redmond
- Fordney's Medical Insurance and Billing by Linda M. Smith
- HCPCS Level II Coding Workbook: Master Medical Billing & Reimbursement by Rory George
- Medical Billing & Coding Mastery in 4 Months by Publishing Help
- Medical Billing & Coding Demystified by Marilyn Burgos
- Medical Billing and Healthcare RCM for Beginners by Syed Omer
- Denials, Appeals & Adjustments: A Step by Step Guide to Handling Denied Medical Claims by Alice Scott and Michele Redmond
- The Ultimate Medical Billing & Coding Guide 2025 by Parker Sloan
- Understanding Health Insurance: A Guide to Billing and Reimbursement by Michelle Green
- Medical Documentation, Billing, and Coding for the Advanced Practice Nurse by Carol Berger, Theresa Galakatos and Nina A. Zimmermann
- Efficient Billing for Busy Physicians by Daniel Cham and Dona Hall
Find more details about each book below.
What You’ll Learn from Medical Billing Books:
- Medical coding fundamentals: Every solid billing book covers the basics of medical coding, including code structure, documentation requirements, and billing workflows.
- Coding books organized by specialty: Whether you're coding for orthopedics, cardiology, or dermatology, specialty-specific sections help tailor your learning.
- Reference guides: These books often double as quick-access reference guides during live claims processing or audits.
- ICD-10-PCS training: For those handling inpatient procedures, expect in-depth breakdowns of the ICD-10-PCS code system.
- Code set updates: The best books highlight annual updates to code sets like CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS, as well as other medical billing news, which are critical for staying compliant.
- Certification exam prep: Ideal for those preparing for the certification exam (like CPC or CCS), with practice questions, tips, exam prep extras, and coding drills.
Overviews of the 12 Best Medical Billing Books
1. Medical Billing & Coding For Dummies by Karen Smiley
Summary:
Medical Billing & Coding For Dummies is a comprehensive guide for individuals aspiring to enter the field of medical billing and coding. The book provides foundational knowledge, covering topics such as medical terminology and coding systems. It also offers insights into finding training programs, understanding certification requirements, and navigating interactions with government agencies and insurance companies.
What You'll Learn:
- Fundamentals of medical billing and coding practices
- Differences between ICD-10 and ICD-11 coding systems
- Ethical and legal considerations in the profession
- Guidance on selecting appropriate training and certification paths
Why You Should Read It:
This book serves as an accessible entry point for those new to the medical billing and coding profession, as well as a refresher for current professionals seeking to stay updated in this evolving field.
Quote From The Book:
"Medical Billing & Coding For Dummies will set you up for success in getting started as a medical biller and coder."
About The Author:
Karen Smiley is a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) with extensive experience in physician and outpatient reimbursement. Connect with her on LinkedIn and learn more about her work on Dummies.
2. The Basics Of Medical Billing by Alice Scott and Michele Redmond
Summary:
The Basics of Medical Billing provides an overview of the medical billing process, aiming to equip readers with essential knowledge for managing billing tasks in healthcare settings. The book covers topics such as patient registration, claim submission, and payment posting.
What You'll Learn:
- Steps involved in the medical billing cycle
- Best practices for accurate claim submission
- Techniques for effective payment posting and follow-up
Why You Should Read It:
This book is intended for individuals seeking to understand the foundational aspects of medical billing, making it suitable for beginners in the field.
Quote From The Book:
"Understanding the basics of medical billing is crucial for the financial health of any medical practice."
About The Author:
Alice Scott is the co-owner of Solutions Medical Billing Inc. and co-author of 15 medical billing books and Michele Redmond is the CEO and co-founder of Solutions Medical Billing Inc., a company specializing in medical billing services.
3. Fordney's Medical Insurance and Billing by Linda M. Smith
Summary:
Fordney's Medical Insurance and Billing is a comprehensive guide to understanding insurance billing processes in various healthcare settings. The book covers topics such as diagnostic and procedural coding, medical documentation, and the submission of electronic and paper claims.
What You'll Learn:
- Roles and responsibilities of insurance billing specialists
- Step-by-step procedures for claim submission
- Insights into different types of insurance coverage
Why You Should Read It:
This book is designed for students and professionals aiming to master the intricacies of medical insurance billing, making it a valuable resource for those pursuing a career in this field.
Quote From The Book:
"Using clear explanations, this book covers all types of insurance coverage commonly encountered in hospitals, physicians' offices, and clinics."
About The Author:
Linda M. Smith is a coding specialist and educator with expertise in medical insurance and billing. Reach out to her on LinkedIn.
4. HCPCS Level II Coding Workbook: Master Medical Billing & Reimbursement by Rory George
Summary:
This workbook helps learners master the HCPCS Level II coding system, which is essential for billing medical supplies, equipment, and services not covered by CPT codes. It provides practical exercises and real-world scenarios to enhance the understanding and application of HCPCS codes.
What You'll Learn:
- Comprehensive understanding of HCPCS Level II codes
- Application of codes to various medical billing scenarios
- Strategies for accurate and efficient coding
Why You Should Read It:
This workbook offers hands-on practice for those looking to specialize in HCPCS Level II coding, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced coders aiming to refine their skills.
Quote From The Book:
"Mastering HCPCS Level II codes is crucial for accurate billing and maximizing reimbursement in today's healthcare environment."
About The Author:
Rory George is a medical billing expert who writes practical guides to help students succeed in coding and reimbursement. Learn more about Rory’s work on his Amazon profile.
5. Medical Billing & Coding Mastery in 4 Months by Publishing Help
Summary:
This guide offers a structured, four-month plan to help readers gain proficiency in medical billing and coding. It covers essential topics such as medical terminology, coding systems, and billing procedures, along with exam preparation and job-hunting strategies.
What You'll Learn:
- Fundamentals of medical billing and coding
- Effective study techniques and exam strategies
- Tips for securing employment in the healthcare industry
Why You Should Read It:
The book provides a clear roadmap for individuals aiming to enter the medical billing and coding field, making it ideal for those seeking a career change or professional development.
Quote From The Book:
"With dedication and the right resources, you can achieve mastery in medical billing and coding in just four months."
About The Author:
Publishing Help creates targeted test prep books across disciplines, combining expert insights to support students and professionals preparing for exams. Read more about their book on their Amazon profile.
6. Medical Billing & Coding Demystified by Marilyn Burgos
Summary:
This comprehensive guide simplifies the complexities of medical billing and coding, making it accessible to beginners. It covers topics such as insurance plans, the insurance claim cycle, medical terminology, and legal aspects of billing, with quizzes and a final exam to reinforce learning.
What You'll Learn:
- Principles of medical billing and coding
- Navigation of insurance plans and claim cycles
- Ethical and legal considerations in billing
Why You Should Read It:
The book offers a self-paced learning approach, making it suitable for those new to the field or professionals seeking a refresher.
Quote From The Book:
"Medical Billing and Coding Demystified offers an effective and enlightening way to learn how this complex system works."
About The Author:
Marilyn Burgos is an experienced medical billing and coding instructor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Read more about her book on her Amazon profile.
7. Medical Billing and Healthcare RCM for Beginners by Syed Omer
Summary:
This comprehensive guide introduces readers to the fundamentals of medical billing and revenue cycle management (RCM). It covers essential topics such as patient registration, insurance verification, claim submission, payment posting, and denial management. The book aims to provide a solid foundation for those new to the healthcare billing industry.
What You'll Learn:
- The complete revenue cycle process in healthcare settings
- Best practices for accurate medical billing and coding
- Strategies for effective denial management and appeals
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're starting a career in medical billing or seeking to enhance your understanding of RCM, this book offers practical insights and step-by-step guidance to navigate the complexities of healthcare billing.
Quote From The Book:
"Mastering the revenue cycle is crucial for the financial health of any medical practice."
About The Author:
Syed Omer is a career coach and business leader with 15+ years of experience in training and mentoring professionals. Learn more about him on his Amazon profile.
8. Denials, Appeals & Adjustments: A Step by Step Guide to Handling Denied Medical Claims by Alice Scott and Michele Redmond
Summary:
This book provides a detailed roadmap for managing denied medical claims. It tackles the reasons behind claim denials and offers actionable strategies to address and prevent them. The guide is designed to help healthcare professionals improve their reimbursement processes.
What You'll Learn:
- Common causes of medical claim denials
- Effective appeal processes and documentation
- Techniques for adjustments and resubmissions
Why You Should Read It:
For medical billing professionals, understanding how to handle denials is essential. This book equips readers with the knowledge and tools to effectively manage and overturn denied claims, ensuring optimal revenue recovery.
Quote From The Book:
"Every denied claim is an opportunity to refine your billing process and enhance your practice's financial performance."
About The Author:
Alice Scott is the co-owner of Solutions Medical Billing Inc. and co-author of 15 medical billing books and Michele Redmond is the CEO and co-founder of Solutions Medical Billing Inc., a company specializing in medical billing services.
9. The Ultimate Medical Billing & Coding Guide 2025 by Parker Sloan
Summary:
This up-to-date guide covers the latest in medical billing and coding practices as of 2025. It includes comprehensive information on coding systems, billing procedures, and compliance standards, making it a valuable resource for both newcomers and seasoned professionals.
What You'll Learn:
- Current CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding updates
- Billing processes for various healthcare settings
- Compliance with federal regulations and payer policies
Why You Should Read It:
Staying current with medical billing and coding standards is crucial in the ever-evolving healthcare industry. This guide ensures that readers are informed about the latest changes and best practices for 2025.
Quote From The Book:
"In the dynamic world of healthcare, staying updated with billing and coding practices isn't just beneficial—it's essential."
10. Understanding Health Insurance: A Guide to Billing and Reimbursement by Michelle Green
Summary:
This comprehensive guide provides a practical, up-to-date resource on health insurance billing and reimbursement. It covers essential topics such as coding systems, reimbursement methods, and common health insurance plans. The book is designed to prepare students for careers in health information management and medical billing and insurance processing.
What You'll Learn:
- Assignment of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II codes
- Completion of health insurance claims
- Mastery of revenue management and reimbursement concepts
- Understanding of managed care and legal/regulatory matters
- Familiarity with common health insurance plans
Why You Should Read It:
This book provides a solid, practical foundation in medical billing and coding, making it a valuable resource for both students and professionals.
Quote From The Book:
"Understanding Health Insurance is the essential learning tool your students need when preparing for a career in medical insurance billing."
About The Author:
Michelle A. Green is a distinguished educator and expert in health information management. She served over 30 years as SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor at Alfred State College. Learn more about her work on her Amazon profile.
11. Medical Documentation, Billing, and Coding for the Advanced Practice Nurse by Carol Berger, Theresa Galakatos and Nina A. Zimmermann
Summary:
This book serves as a comprehensive guide for advanced practice nurses, focusing on the intricacies of medical documentation, billing, and coding. It emphasizes the importance of accurate documentation and coding practices to ensure proper reimbursement and compliance with healthcare regulations.
What You'll Learn:
- Best practices in medical documentation for advanced practice nurses
- Strategies for accurate billing and coding
- Understanding of healthcare reimbursement systems
- Compliance with legal and regulatory standards
Why You Should Read It:
For advanced practice nurses, mastering documentation, billing, and coding is crucial for delivering quality care and ensuring the financial sustainability of healthcare services. This book provides the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate these complex areas effectively.
Quote From The Book:
"Accurate documentation and coding are essential components of advanced nursing practice, directly impacting patient care and reimbursement."
About The Authors:
Carol Berger is a dedicated nurse practitioner known for her engaging educational content and co-hosting the NP Changing Practice podcast and Theresa Galakatos is a highly credentialed associate professor known for her academic leadership and lifelong commitment to healthcare education. Nina A. Zimmermann is an expert in nursing education and adult-gerontology care.
- Connect with Theresa Galakatos on LinkedIn.
12. Efficient Billing for Busy Physicians by Daniel Cham and Dona Hall
Summary:
This book offers practical strategies for physicians to streamline their billing processes, aiming to enhance efficiency and reduce administrative burdens. It addresses common challenges in medical billing and provides solutions to optimize revenue cycles in busy medical practices.
What You'll Learn:
- Techniques for efficient medical billing
- Methods to reduce billing errors and claim denials
- Strategies to improve revenue cycle management
- Insights into leveraging technology for billing efficiency
Why You Should Read It:
Physicians often face time constraints and administrative challenges that can impact billing efficiency. This book provides actionable advice to help busy physicians manage their billing processes more effectively, leading to improved financial outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Quote From The Book:
"Streamlining billing processes is not just about improving revenue; it's about enhancing the overall efficiency of your medical practice."
About The Author:
Dr. Daniel Cham is a physician, entrepreneur, and author with expertise in proactive and aesthetic medicine, general practice, and nuclear radiology. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
Benefits of Reading Medical Billing Books
Running a successful medical practice means staying sharp, especially when it comes to billing. I’ve found that keeping a few reliable medical billing books close by is one of the best ways to stay up to date, whether you're managing a front desk, coding inpatient procedures, or preparing for an audit.
Here’s why reading billing books from trusted sources like AAPC, AHIMA, and the American Medical Association (AMA) makes a real difference in day-to-day operations.
1. Staying Aligned with Industry Standards
Books from organizations like AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) and AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) are written by experts who help define the industry.
They offer clarity on CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding guidelines, as well as auditing practices. When I train new medical assistants or medical coders, I always point them toward these books first. They reinforce consistency across medical offices and give staff the tools to avoid claim denials.
2. Reducing Errors in Inpatient and Outpatient Billing
The margin for error in inpatient billing is razor-thin. Medicare and commercial payers scrutinize every detail, and one misstep can trigger a denial or worse—an audit.
Reading up on inpatient billing protocols helps me ensure my coders are properly documenting medical necessity and sequencing diagnoses. These books give real-world examples that show how to apply complex rules to actual patient cases, not just textbook definitions.
3. Building Audit-Readiness
I’ve been through enough audits to know they’re not just about catching fraud—they’re about documentation. Books on auditing give you templates, red-flag lists, and process maps that I use to proactively review charts. That kind of preparation gives me peace of mind and shows auditors that we run a tight ship.
4. Understanding Medicare Nuances
Medicare billing isn’t something you can just “wing.” Their guidelines evolve every year, and a book that breaks down Medicare Part A and B coverage, claim submission protocols, and appeals processes is essential. I
reference these resources when training my team and reviewing denied claims—it keeps us compliant and helps us recoup what we’re owed.
5. Professional Growth and Certification Prep
For anyone pursuing certification—whether it’s as a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through AAPC or a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) through AHIMA—these books are the gold standard.
I’ve helped many staff members prepare for their exams using AMA-published books, which include practice questions and coding scenarios.
Reading List
Healthcare finances are tricky...but necessary to running a successful practice. Here are some more I recommend:
- Read books on healthcare revenue cycle management to learn effective strategies for optimizing billing and financial performance.
- Follow medical billing news resources, like blogs and websites, to keep up with emerging trends in the field.
What’s Next
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