5 Tips for Working from Home

We’ve talked about the benefits of working from home on this blog before. What we haven’t talked about, however, are tips for working from home. In recent years, more people are working from home than probably any other time in this world’s history. But did you know that with medical coding, you can potentially work from home anytime?

Medical coding is perfect for working from home. Here are five tips to help you do it successfully:

1. Create a Schedule

Before you start your day (or even better, your week), make sure you have a set schedule to hold yourself accountable. Some people prefer to get the most intensive work done in the morning; others like to space it throughout the day. Choose a schedule that works for you and try to stick to it as much as possible.

2. Take Breaks

Avoid burnout! Don’t work yourself to death. Take breaks every couple of hours if possible. Grab a breath of fresh air, exercise or get a snack. Get the blood flowing and walk around. You just might find that you’re more productive if you’re taking breaks between your projects.

3. Monotask

You’ve heard of multitasking, but what about monotasking? Instead of focusing on multiple things at once, focus on getting one thing done at a time. Your schedule will help with this and you’ll see that you’re getting one thing done after the other.

4. Use Headphones

Are you distracted by kids, pets or outside noises while trying to work from home? Invest in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. Be careful about your music selection, though. Studies show that music can boost productivity, but it’s usually music that is instrumental or you’re already familiar with. Avoid fast-paced, lyric-heavy, unfamiliar tunes if you want to keep your focus on the tasks at hand.

5. Keep Your Books Handy

Speaking of hands, make sure your medical coding books are within hand’s reach at all times. You’re going to need them if you’re working from home as a medical coder, so it’s important that they’re convenient and available. (Be sure to purchase them if you haven’t already.)

If you’re interested in more tips for working from home, contact us today.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in May 2020. It has been updated for clarity, accuracy and new information.