Georgia Billing and Coding Schools: Top Accredited Options

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If you're looking to pursue a career in medical billing and coding in Georgia, you'll want to consider enrolling in one of the top accredited programs in the state.

The Medical Assisting Program at Gwinnett Technical College is one of the top options, offering an Associate of Applied Science degree that can be completed in two years.

This program is accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), ensuring that graduates meet the industry's high standards.

With a focus on hands-on training and clinical experience, graduates of this program are well-prepared to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.

For more insights, see: Online Coding Schools Accredited

Schools and Programs

There are several schools in Georgia that offer certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree courses in medical billing and coding. You can complete a program in as little as 12 to 24 months and take the state’s official certification exam to become a CBCS.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers a fully online Healthcare Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate program, which prepares you for certification exams and immediate employment. West Georgia Technical College provides a comprehensive online curriculum in medical coding, focusing on key areas like CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes.

For another approach, see: Code Compliance Certificate Application

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Here are some online certificate programs in medical billing and coding in Georgia:

  • Georgia Northwestern Technical College: Offers a fully online Healthcare Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate program.
  • West Georgia Technical College: Provides a comprehensive online curriculum in medical coding.
  • Atlanta Technical College: Features an online Medical Coding Technical Certificate program with synchronous and asynchronous learning options.

What to Look for in a School

When choosing a medical coding and billing program in Georgia, it's essential to consider several factors. One key aspect to look for is the program's duration, which can range from 12 to 24 months, depending on whether it's web-based or classroom-based.

You'll want to find a program that offers flexibility to fit your schedule. Some programs, like those at Albany Technical College and Georgia Northwestern Technical College, may offer online or hybrid options.

Consider the program's accreditation status, as it can affect your eligibility for certification. Many programs, such as those at Atlanta Technical College and Gwinnett Technical College, are accredited by recognized accrediting agencies.

Look for programs with a strong reputation for producing graduates who pass the state's certification exam. Some programs, like those at MedTech Institute-Atlanta Campus and South Georgia Technical College, have a high pass rate for the CBCS certification exam.

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Here's a list of some of the schools mentioned in the article section, grouped by location:

Ultimately, the right school for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to research each program thoroughly and reach out to their admissions teams to get a better sense of which one is the best fit for you.

Top Accredited Schools

Georgia Northwestern Technical College is one of the top schools in the state for medical billing and coding programs. It offers a fully online Healthcare Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate that prepares students for certification exams and immediate employment in the field.

Accreditation is crucial when choosing a medical billing and coding school. Look for schools accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Our rankings include accredited programs that meet high educational standards.

The Commission on Accreditation of Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) accredits medical billing and coding certificates and associate degree programs. While a certificate is not required to sit for the CPC or CPB exam, completing a CAHIIM-accredited program builds the skills needed for these certifications and may increase your chances of becoming certified the first time.

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Here are some top accredited schools in Georgia:

Typical program duration for medical billing and coding certificate programs is 24-30 credit hours, which can be completed within a year. Some schools offer accelerated options, allowing you to finish even more quickly.

Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta Technical College offers an associate’s degree certificate course in medical billing and coding that can be completed over four school semesters.

In-state students pay $2,740, while out-of-state students pay $4,876, making the total cost for this specific course $8,643.

This course is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

Students receive training in diagnoses/procedural coding, anatomy and physiology, and medical terminology.

The course prepares students to become medical coders, classifying medical records with ease.

Central Technical College

Central Technical College offers a well-rounded education in healthcare administration through its Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting program.

This program includes courses such as anatomy, medical terminology, and medical office management, which can lead to various careers in the field.

Students at Central Technical College can gain a solid foundation in medical assisting and related fields, setting them up for success in the healthcare industry.

Clarkston

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Clarkston is home to Georgia Piedmont Technical College, which offers a Health Information Management Coding Diploma. The program is accredited by SACSCOC.

This diploma program includes robust coursework in diagnostic and procedural coding. Students learn a lot in this program.

Medical terminology, pharmacology, and health information technology are all part of the curriculum.

What Is a Specialist?

As a medical billing and coding specialist, you'll be translating medical information into codes for insurance billing and reimbursement. This requires a sharp eye for detail and strong communication skills.

You'll need to know medical terminology, how health insurance works, and medical coding language. Regular working hours and a competitive salary are just a few perks of this career.

To become a medical billing and coding specialist, you'll need to obtain certification through a reputable organization. Here are some recognized certifications:

  • Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) through the National Health career Association (NHA)
  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through AAPC
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) through AHIMA

These certifications demonstrate your expertise in assigning accurate medical codes, knowledge of coding guidelines and regulations, and proficiency in a wide range of services.

Programs and Curriculum

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You can finish a medical coding and billing program in Georgia within 12 to 24 months. This will prepare you to take the state's official certification exam for the chance to be recognized as a CBCS.

Suggested medical coding and billing programs in Georgia include Albany Technical College, Altamaha Technical College, and Atlanta Technical College, among others. These programs are located throughout the state and offer a range of options for students.

The curriculum for medical coding and billing programs should be comprehensive and aligned with industry standards. This includes subjects such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, healthcare reimbursement methods, CPT and ICD-10-CM coding, and more.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers a fully online Healthcare Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate, which prepares students for certification exams and immediate employment in the field. West Georgia Technical College provides a comprehensive online curriculum in medical coding, focusing on key areas like CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes.

See what others are reading: Icd 10 Coding Schools

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An online certificate in medical billing and coding can be completed in 1-2 years, typically requiring 18-30 credits. Students can expect to take core courses such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, healthcare reimbursement methods, ICD-10-CM coding, and CPT coding.

Some programs, like Georgia Northwestern Technical College's Healthcare Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate, include specialized courses such as medical terminology, diagnostic and procedural coding, and healthcare reimbursement. These courses ensure that students are well-prepared for certification exams and can confidently start their careers in medical billing and coding.

Here is a list of some of the schools mentioned in the article that offer medical coding and billing programs:

  1. Albany Technical College
  2. Altamaha Technical College
  3. Atlanta Technical College
  4. Georgia Northwestern Technical College
  5. West Georgia Technical College

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a medical coder in Georgia?

In Georgia, becoming a medical coder typically takes 1-3 years, depending on whether you choose a certification program or an associate degree. With the right training, you can start a rewarding career in medical coding in as little as 1 year.

What is the best school for medical billing and coding?

There is no single "best" school for medical billing and coding, as top options include the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the University of Cincinnati, both of which offer comprehensive programs.

How to become a medical biller in GA?

To become a medical biller in Georgia, you'll need a high school diploma and complete medical billing and coding training, followed by certification. Get started on your path to a rewarding career in medical billing today!

How much does a medical billing coder make in Georgia?

As of November 2024, a medical billing coder in Georgia can expect to earn an average hourly wage of $18.93, ranging from $15.24 to $20.29 per hour. Salaries can vary, with some coders earning up to $29.03 per hour.

Keith Marchal

Senior Writer

Keith Marchal is a passionate writer who has been sharing his thoughts and experiences on his personal blog for more than a decade. He is known for his engaging storytelling style and insightful commentary on a wide range of topics, including travel, food, technology, and culture. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the power of words, Keith's writing has captivated readers all around the world.

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