Cheapest Online Medical Billing and Coding Schools

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If you're looking to pursue a career in medical billing and coding, you're likely on a budget. Fortunately, there are many affordable online options available.

The cheapest online medical billing and coding schools can cost as little as $2,000 per year.

To get started, consider schools that offer flexible online programs, such as Herzing University, which offers a medical billing and coding program for $8,320.

Another option is the Medical Billing and Coding program at Penn Foster, which can be completed in just 12 months for $2,480.

Online Medical Billing and Coding Schools

The University of Cincinnati's Online Medical Coder Program is a great option for those looking to get into medical coding and billing. The program prepares students for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exams.

Students can choose from either a 7-week or 14-week format, and the program is offered six times a year. This flexibility is a big plus for those who need to balance school with other responsibilities.

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The cost of the program varies depending on residency, with non-residents paying $11,436 and Ohio residents paying $10,896. This is a significant investment, but it's worth considering the potential long-term benefits of a career in medical coding and billing.

Program participants are eligible for either full or partial reimbursement of their exam fees, which can be a big help in covering the costs of certification. Students also qualify for financial aid, making it more accessible to those who may not have the means to pay upfront.

Choosing a School

Choosing a school is a crucial step in your journey to a career in medical billing and coding. Consider all the factors when selecting a program, as there are many to consider.

You should think about the program's ranking and reputation. Our ranking of the best online programs can help you find a program that fits your needs.

Look for a program that provides a certificate, as this is a quick and convenient pathway to a career that does not require a bachelor’s degree. An online certificate in medical billing and coding can give you the skills you need to succeed.

Consider the program's flexibility and convenience, as online programs can be a great option for those with busy schedules.

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If you're looking for affordable online medical billing and coding schools, you have several options to consider.

You can learn more about start dates, transferring credits, and financial aid by contacting the universities below.

Some of these schools offer flexible start dates, allowing you to begin your education at a time that suits you.

University of Cincinnati Coding Program

The University of Cincinnati's Online Medical Coder Program is a great option for those looking to start a career in medical coding and billing. The program prepares students for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exams.

Students can choose from either a 7-week or 14-week format, which is offered six times a year. The curriculum covers topics such as medical coding, pharmacology, and physiology.

The program is eligible for financial aid, and students can even get reimbursed for their exam fees. Plus, credits earned in the program can be transferred to other University of Cincinnati programs, like their associate's in Health Information Systems.

Here are the tuition costs for the program:

  • $11,436 (full-time, non-resident)
  • $10,896 (full-time, Ohio resident)

Overall, the University of Cincinnati's Online Medical Coder Program is a solid choice for those looking to start a career in medical coding and billing.

Student Reviews

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The US Career Institute stands out for its exceptional support for students, with instructors who are great at answering questions.

Students have praised the program for its comprehensive resources, including textbooks that are included in the course cost.

The medical billing and coding program is designed to be easy to understand, helping students stay motivated and achieve their goals.

H. Wallace, a satisfied student, would highly recommend the US Career Institute, giving it a perfect score of ten out of ten.

Suzette S. has also enjoyed her courses, finding them to be a great fit for her needs and helping her stay on track with her goals.

Best

The Best Schools for Online Medical Education offer a range of start dates, allowing students to choose a schedule that fits their needs.

Some popular online medical billing and coding schools have flexible start dates, making it easier for students to get started.

You can learn more about the start dates, transferring credits, and availability of financial aid by contacting the universities mentioned, such as those that offer online medical office administration certificate programs.

These certificate programs prepare students for careers in a high-demand healthcare field with myriad growth opportunities, as updated in 2023.

Certification and Career

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Certification is a crucial step in becoming a medical biller or coder. The two most common exams for entry-level coding professionals are AAPC's CPC and AHIMA's CCS. The CPC certification suits those aiming to start in outpatient and physician office coding roles, while the CCS is ideal for those targeting hospital settings and broader coding responsibilities.

The Certified Professional Biller (CPB) or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials are among the most popular for beginners. The AAPC offers a dual CPB and CPC credential. To prepare for these exams, students can choose from various online programs that offer certification exam preparation.

The cost and duration of these programs vary, but some popular options include:

It's essential to note that some states may require additional training or examination before becoming qualified to work in that state. Students should always check with their state department for their licensing or certification requirements.

Certification and Career

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The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB) credentials are among the most popular for beginners in the medical coding field. The AAPC offers a dual CPB and CPC credential.

To become certified, you'll need to pass a certification exam, such as the CPC or CPB exam administered by the AAPC. The CPC certification is more widely accepted and suits those aiming to start in outpatient and physician office coding roles.

Some online medical billing and coding programs, like Phlebotomy Career Training's program, prepare students for the NHA's Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam. Students will take the exam on the last day of class and receive a certificate of completion upon passing.

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) offers courses to help prepare for the CPC and CPB exams. The CPC prep course includes instruction using three major coding manuals: CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II.

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Here's a comparison of the AAPC's certification options:

The AAPC offers multiple ways to prepare for the exam, so you can choose the learning style and format that suits you best.

What Is a Specialist?

As a medical billing and coding specialist, you'll be responsible for maintaining and accurately reporting and categorizing patient information. This is an essential function at the heart of healthcare.

You can work in hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices, or even from home. Medical billing and coding specialists enjoy one of the most secure careers because of their crucial role in healthcare.

In California, there are over 3,500 jobs available, with an average salary of $65,850. This is a significant opportunity for those looking to start a career in this field.

Medical billing and coding specialist jobs are expected to grow faster than average from 2022-2032. This means that not only are these jobs secure, but they're also likely to be in high demand in the future.

Texas also has a large number of medical billing and coding specialist jobs, with over 3,000 available and an average salary of $44,680.

Pros and Cons

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A certificate in medical billing and coding can lead to a well-paying career in the healthcare industry.

Certified professionals in medical billing and coding will see opportunities expand due to the growing demand for healthcare services.

Having a certificate in medical billing and coding can provide a relatively quick way to enter a career in the healthcare industry.

Is It Worth It?

Getting certified in medical billing and coding can be a great way to enter a well-paying career in the healthcare industry.

The cost of certification is a significant factor to consider. It costs an extra $299 to take each certification exam.

However, the benefits of certification far outweigh the costs. A certificate in medical billing and coding offers a relatively quick way to enter a well-paying career in the healthcare industry and become certified.

The demand for certified professionals will continue to expand in response to the growing demand for healthcare services and the increasing reliance on technology by hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and insurance companies.

Here are some key pros and cons of certification:

Cons

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The AAPC certification program has some drawbacks to consider. The cost of the certification exams is a significant investment, coming in at $499 each.

One of the biggest cons is the expense. The program is also not designed for complete beginners, and the AAPC recommends taking a 12-week course called Fundamentals of Medicine, which costs $2,622.90, before pursuing the certification.

The AAPC is not a traditional school or university, so it cannot offer federal financial aid. This means that students will need to pay out of pocket for the program.

It's worth noting that the AAPC certification program is expensive compared to other programs. The lack of self-paced learning is also a drawback for some students.

Getting Started

You want to ensure you can complete the program on your timeline, so consider the program length and schedule before enrolling in a cheapest online medical billing and coding school.

Many programs are self-paced, meaning you can complete it as quickly as you'd like, but others are offered at specific intervals.

The faster you complete your program, the quicker you can get certified and start your medical billing or billing career.

Guide

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Certificates can offer a fast pathway to a medical billing and coding career.

A certificate in medical billing and coding is a great option for those who want to enter the field quickly.

This type of program typically takes several months to a year to complete.

You can expect to learn the basics of medical billing and coding, including medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems.

Certificates can be earned online or in a classroom setting.

By choosing a certificate program, you'll be able to get started in the field sooner than if you were to pursue a degree.

Schedule

Scheduling your program is a crucial step in getting started with medical coding or billing. Many programs are self-paced, meaning you can complete them as quickly as you'd like.

You'll want to check the program's schedule to ensure it fits your needs. Some programs are offered at specific intervals, so it's essential to choose one that aligns with your availability.

The faster you complete your program, the quicker you can get certified and start your career. This is especially true for programs that revoke access after a certain period.

Degree and Costs

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The cost of a medical billing and coding degree can vary significantly depending on the type of organization. The average annual cost for tuition and fees in 2022-23 was $3,598 at a public community college.

You can save on educational costs by attending an online program, which helps reduce your total housing and transportation costs. Online programs can also provide discounted tuition for students attending a school in their home state.

The cost of AAPC certification training ranges from $2,295 to $3,095, and an exam prep course from the AAPC can cost between $560 and $4,979.

Degree Costs

The cost of a medical billing and coding degree can vary significantly depending on the type of organization and location. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost for tuition and fees in 2022-23 was $3,598 at a public community college.

You may qualify for discounted tuition by attending a school in your home state, which can save you even more money. The cost of AAPC certification training ranges from $2,295 to $3,095.

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A medical billing and coding certificate program from a university can cost anywhere from $4,200 to $19,500. On the other hand, an exam prep course from the AAPC can cost between $560 and $4,979.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:

Length

Length can vary significantly depending on the program format and attendance schedule.

If you attend full-time, completion times are usually shorter, while part-time students take longer to finish.

You can complete a certificate program in as little as 4 months or take up to 15 months, depending on your pace.

Program requirements typically range from 18 to 30 credits, which can impact the overall duration of the program.

Employment and Opportunities

Medical billing and coding is a growing field with plenty of job opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% increase in medical billing and coding jobs between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average.

You can work in various settings, including hospitals, medical offices, clinics, and insurance companies. Many medical billing and coding specialists work remotely from home as full-time employees or independent contractors.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical billing and coding professionals earned a median hourly rate of $23.45 in 2023, with a median annual salary of $48,780. The highest 10% made over $77,000 a year, depending on experience, location, and certifications.

Here are some average yearly salaries for certified medical billers and coders in different states, according to the AAPC:

Medical billing and coding professionals can choose from various certifications, including certified medical biller (CPB), certified medical coder (CPC), and certified inpatient coder (CIC).

Job Opportunities

Medical billing and coding specialists can work in various settings, including hospitals, medical offices, clinics, and insurance companies. They can also work remotely from home as full-time employees or independent contractors.

A growing number of healthcare providers and insurance companies hire coders and billers to work remotely either full or part-time. This flexibility is a great perk for those who value work-life balance.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical billing and coding jobs are projected to increase by 9% between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average. This means there will be more job opportunities available in the future.

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Medical billing and coding professionals can earn a median hourly rate of $23.45 in 2023, with a median annual salary of $48,780. Experienced professionals can earn up to $77,000 per year.

Here are some of the top places to work with an online certificate in medical billing and coding:

  • Hospitals
  • Office of Physicians
  • Insurance Companies
  • Remote Work

These settings offer a range of job opportunities, from hospitals with fast-paced environments to insurance companies with more routine tasks.

Role Salary

The salary for medical billing and coding roles is a crucial factor to consider when exploring this career path. The median annual salary for medical records specialists, which includes medical billers and coders, is $48,780, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

This salary provides a stable financial foundation for individuals in this field, allowing them to support themselves and their families.

Coder Salaries

Medical coders can earn a decent income, especially with professional certification. The 2023 AAPC Salary Survey reports that medical records specialists with certifications earn an average salary of $62,689 annually.

Having a certification can make a big difference in salary. Those without certifications earn significantly less, with an average salary of $53,749, almost $10,000 less a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to learn medical billing and coding online?

Online medical billing and coding courses typically cost between $2,295 and $3,095, offering a more affordable option compared to traditional colleges. Learn more about the cost and value of online medical coding education.

Can I learn medical coding online for free?

Yes, you can learn medical coding online for free, but free courses typically don't prepare you for professional certification. Consider low-cost certification courses for a career start.

What is the shortest program for medical billing and coding?

The shortest medical billing and coding program is typically 3-5 weeks long. Complete your training in a short period with Medicalbillingcourse.com's accelerated program.

Is there a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing?

Our 4-week online course introduces medical billing, but does not cover coding; additional training is recommended for medical billing and coding certification. For a comprehensive course covering both medical billing and coding, please explore our full certification program.

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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