I have been a LPN for 15 years, mostly working in a nursing home setting. I did work for one year in a hospital and one year in home health. In February of this year, I started having severe pain and swelling in my left knee and lower leg. Originally, my specialist told me that I had a meniscus tear. Although that seems to have healed (about as much as it ever will), I am now diagnosed with popliteal pain syndrome in both legs. This has left walking very difficult (requiring a cane and sometimes a wheelchair). Needless to say, I lost my job. I am not ready to quit nursing. I have tried to find an office job, but to no avail. I have considered doing coding and billing at home. However, I know little about it. Has anyone ever done coding & billing? Or, do you have any suggestions as to what else I maybe could do? Thank you very much for any help you can give!

what about working as a medical transcriptionist? Just a thought. I know alot of them work from home.

Aloha said:

Good Afternoon , I am also in a similar position . I blew out my back 6 years ago and ended up with no income for 2 years and then qualified for Disability. Thank God I have a husband to rely on because I would starve on the monthly allowance I get. I have been trying to get back to work for the past several months and have found a lot of federal programs that are very helpful. Contact your local Social Security Office for information. I have found that there are a lot of Nurses out there who have been damaged by the rigors of the profession. Keep the Faith and be patient. It may take some time but anyone who has spent 15 years in Long Term Care can do most anything.Good Luck......Aloha.......

cmckeag said:

Why don't you consider "healthcare informatics"? It's a one year diploma program, and is an up and coming field. It incorporates the medical field with setting up computer programs to both document and track information. Something to consider if you have any computer savy. This is why disability insurance is something to consider--it can help supplement income if off for up to two years. I'm sorry your are having such a hard time. As far as medical coding and billing are concerned, it can be a good business to go into, but you are an independent contractor for MD offices and such. You can actually get the diploma online through some community colleges. I know the school I work for offers it. Milwaukee Area Technical College--look into it.

With you in mind, NursingLink has added this article to our collection-

Fix Attitudes and Bust Disability Myths.

Best of luck to you!

Currin, I found the article interesting. I learnt a lot, even though I am able-bodied and not in a position to hire anyone as yet. Thanks.