If you're looking to pursue a career in medical billing and coding in Louisiana, there are several online schools that can provide you with the necessary education and training.
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a certificate program in medical billing and coding that can be completed entirely online. This program covers topics such as ICD-10 coding and HIPAA regulations.
With a growing demand for medical billing and coding professionals, the job prospects in Louisiana are promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030.
Louisiana also has several online schools that offer associate's and bachelor's degree programs in health information technology, which can lead to higher-level positions in the field.
Choosing a Program
LSU Eunice's online Certificate of Technical Studies in Medical Billing and Coding offers financial assistance through the M.J. Foster Promise Program to eligible students.
You should consider factors like cost, financial aid, and certification exam preparation when selecting a program.
The online medical billing and coding certificate program from LSUE prepares students to sit for various exams, including the Certified Coding Associate (CCA), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), and the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exams.
Programs will differ significantly in cost, financial aid, and certification exam preparation, so it's essential to research and compare them.
Most online medical billing and coding certificate programs can be completed in 1-2 years, requiring 18-30 credits.
Certificate programs in medical billing and coding typically require similar core courses and a culminating practicum.
Program Details
Most online medical billing and coding certificate programs can be completed in 1-2 years, requiring 18-30 credits. You can typically complete your online medical billing and coding certificate in 1-2 years.
The online CTS in Medical Billing and Coding offered through LSU Eunice and LSU Online requires 35 credits to earn your degree and complete in as few as 12 months. This program includes courses such as Medical Terminology, Pharmacology for Non-Nursing Majors, and Anatomy and Physiology Survey.
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Here are some of the core courses you can expect to take in a medical billing and coding program:
Self-paced courses like the Medical Coding and Reimbursement Online Course Bundle can be completed in 365 days from the date of purchase, and some programs offer academic credits and continuing education units.
Learning Format
Online programs may offer a more affordable and convenient option than attending an in-person program, especially if you need to work while earning your certification.
You can complete an online certificate in medical billing and coding in 1-2 years, which is a relatively short period of time.
Most online programs require 18-30 credits to complete, and some may have a self-paced format that allows you to finish as quickly as you'd like.
You'll typically receive training in record management, health insurance and reimbursement, billing and coding applications, and current procedural terminology and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems.
Some online programs may revoke access after a certain period if you don't complete the program on time, so be sure to check the program's requirements and schedule.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial factor to consider when choosing an online medical billing and coding program. The Commission on Accreditation of Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) accredits medical billing and coding certificates and associate degree programs.
A CAHIIM-accredited program meets high educational standards, which can give you a competitive edge in the job market. You can increase your chances of becoming certified the first time by completing a CAHIIM-accredited program.
While a certificate is not required to sit for the CPC or CPB exam, a CAHIIM-accredited program can still help you build the skills needed for these certifications.
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Program Curriculum
Most online medical billing and coding programs cover essential topics such as basic claims processes, revenue cycle management, procedural coding, and working with insurance companies.
Programs may differ in cost, financial aid, and certification exam preparation, so it's essential to research and compare different options.
Medical billing and coding programs offer similar courses in medical terminology, ethics and law, coding classifications, and anatomy and physiology.
Depending on your interest, you may take classes in records management, health insurance reimbursement, and billing and coding applications.
Medical billing and coding programs typically require 18-30 credits to complete and can be finished in 1-2 years.
Certificate programs in medical billing and coding typically require similar core courses and a culminating practicum.
Students receive training in record management for medical patient data, health insurance and reimbursement, billing and coding applications, and how to use current procedural terminology and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems.
Here's a breakdown of the typical courses you can expect to find in a medical billing and coding program:
- Medical Terminology
- Pharmacology for Non-Nursing Majors
- Health Data
- Health Insurance and Medical Billing
- Anatomy and Physiology Survey
- Pathophysiology for Allied Health Professionals
- CPT Medical Coding
- Diagnosis Coding
- Fundamentals of Healthcare Management
- Advanced Medical Coding
- Medical Billing and Coding Practicum
Degree Costs
The cost of a medical billing and coding degree can be a significant factor in your decision. The average annual cost for tuition and fees in 2022-23 was $3,598 at a public community college.
You can save on housing and transportation costs by taking an online program. An online program can also make it easier to attend a school in your home state, where you may qualify for discounted tuition.
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The cost of AAPC certification training ranges from $2,295 to $3,095. This is a significant investment, but it's worth it for the skills and knowledge you'll gain.
Exam prep courses from the AAPC can cost anywhere from $560 to $4,979. This is a one-time expense that can help you prepare for your certification exam.
A certificate from a university can cost anywhere from $4,200 to $19,500. This is a significant investment, but it's worth it for the skills and knowledge you'll gain.
Career and Salary
The career opportunities in medical billing and coding are vast and in demand. Medical billers and coders are essential to the healthcare industry, and their roles are projected to increase by 9% between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average.
You can work in various settings, including hospitals, office of physicians, insurance companies, and even remotely. Some of the job titles you may encounter include medical billing and coding specialist, medical biller, medical coder, health claims specialist, and medical records specialist.
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. However, certified medical billers and coders can earn an average yearly salary of $62,689, while those without certifications earn $53,749.
Here are some of the specific job titles and their corresponding median hourly rates:
The highest paying states for certified medical billers and coders include California, with an average yearly salary of $76,695, while West Virginia pays the lowest at $52,556.
Certification and Outcomes
The CPC certification is ideal for those aiming to start in outpatient and physician office coding roles, while the CCS certification is better suited for those targeting hospital settings and broader coding responsibilities.
Having a credential that employers are familiar with can help you stand out when applying for jobs, but some online coding and billing programs may not prepare you for a specific exam.
The AAPC offers a dual CPB and CPC credential, making it a popular choice for beginners in the field.
The Nationally Registered Certified Coding Specialist (NRCCS) Certification Exam is a goal for many medical billing and coding programs, and passing it can lead to a career as a certified medical billing and coding specialist.
Some online medical billing and coding programs, like the one at the College of Health Care Professions, prepare students to take the NRCCS Certification Exam and have institutional accreditation from ABHES.
Programs and Schools
The cost of online medical billing and coding programs can vary significantly, with some programs costing upwards of $2993.25 for a 13-course bundle.
You can complete your online medical billing and coding certificate in 1-2 years, and most programs require 18-30 credits.
Certificate programs in medical billing and coding typically require similar core courses and a culminating practicum, which can prepare you for a career in medical billing and coding.
A certificate in medical billing and coding can be obtained within 6-12 months, depending on the program you choose, and can be a fast pathway to a medical billing and coding career.
The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers a Medical Coding and Reimbursement Online Course Bundle, which includes 13 courses and provides one year of access.
This bundle costs $2993.25, but you can choose a single course for around $299, and it includes hands-on practice, academic credits, and continuing education units.
The course is self-paced and lasts 365 days from the date of purchase, and upon completion, you receive a certificate from AHIMA, which can help you stand out to employers and access career resources.
Kickstart Your Healthcare Career
The healthcare industry is growing, and with it, the need for skilled medical coding and billing professionals.
You can earn a 100% online Certificate of Technical Studies in Medical Billing and Coding through LSU Eunice and LSU Online.
This program prepares students to process and manage critical information, such as patient records, billing, and insurance claims.
Graduates will be well-positioned to become entry-level allied health professionals.
They'll have the knowledge base and technical skills to make a difference in the healthcare field.
With this certification, graduates can sit for the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) exams offered through The American Health Information Management Association.
They'll also be prepared to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam given by the American Academy of Professional Coders.
Certification and Training
Medical billing and coding online schools in Louisiana can provide students with the training and certification needed to succeed in this field. The most common exams for entry-level coding professionals are AAPC's CPC and AHIMA's CCS.
Some online programs, like MedCerts's medical billing and training course, cover various topics, including human anatomy, medical terminology, and insurance billing and coding essentials. This 28-week program accepts multiple financial aid options, including MyCAA, Workforce Funding, and Department of Defense Credentialing Assistance.
The CPC certification is ideal for those targeting outpatient and physician office coding roles, while the CCS is better suited for hospital settings and broader coding responsibilities. However, some programs may not prepare students for either exam, so it's essential to research and choose a program that aligns with your career goals.
MedCerts's program prepares students for the MCBC, CPC, or CCS-P certification exams and covers the costs. After completing the program, graduates can access career coaches and MedCerts's career center for a year. The program is completely online, offering video-based training for added convenience.
The AAPC offers a dual CPB and CPC credential, which is a popular choice for beginners in the field. The certified professional biller (CPB) or certified professional coder (CPC) credentials are also in high demand.
Here are some key facts to consider when choosing a medical billing and coding online program in Louisiana:
- MedCerts's program covers exam fees and accepts multiple types of funding, including MyCAA.
- The program is not available in all states, including Louisiana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.
- MedCerts's program is longer than other courses, lasting 28 weeks or 7 months.
- The goal of some programs, like the College of Health Care Professions, is to help prepare students to take the Nationally Registered Certified Coding Specialist (NRCCS) Certification Exam.
Continuing Education
Continuing Education is a vital aspect of any career, especially in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry. The Medical Billing and Coding Certificate from CHCP allows you to transfer credits to degree programs, giving you a versatile pathway for advancement.
You can transfer credits to the Health and Medical Administration Services AAS Degree Program. This degree program is structured for completion, empowering you to step into broader positions within the healthcare industry.
The Coding and Revenue Cycle Management AAS Degree Program is another option for transferring credits. This program is designed to help you elevate your career prospects and take on more challenging roles.
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Certification and Salary
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).
Having a professional certification in medical billing and coding can significantly impact your salary, with certified medical records specialists earning an average of $62,689 annually, compared to $53,749 for those without certifications.
The certified professional biller (CPB) or the certified professional coder (CPC) credentials are popular choices for beginners in the field, and the AAPC offers a dual CPB and CPC credential.
If you're looking to increase your earning potential, obtaining a professional certification in medical billing and coding is a great place to start.
Program Information
You can complete an online medical billing and coding certificate in 1-2 years, typically requiring 18-30 credits.
Most programs will cover essential topics such as basic claims processes, revenue cycle management, procedural coding, and working with insurance companies.
You'll take classes in medical terminology, ethics and law, coding classifications, and anatomy and physiology, depending on your interest.
A certificate in medical billing and coding can be obtained in as little as 6-12 months, depending on the program you choose.
Certificate programs in medical billing and coding require similar core courses and a culminating practicum, training you in record management for medical patient data, health insurance and reimbursement, billing and coding applications, and current procedural terminology.
The cost of these programs can be relatively low, making a career in medical billing and coding an attractive option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best online school for medical coding?
The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and University of Cincinnati offer reputable online medical coding programs, but the best option for you depends on your specific needs and goals. Consider exploring these top online schools to find the one that aligns with your career aspirations.
How much does a medical coder make an hour in Louisiana?
As of November 2024, a Medical Billing And Coding Specialist in Louisiana earns an average of $18.78 per hour. Check our site for the latest salary data and career insights.
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.
Is there a 4 week online course for medical coding and billing?
Our 4-week online course covers medical billing, but not coding. Additional training is recommended for medical billing and coding certification, but this course provides a great introduction to the field.
Sources
- https://online.lsu.edu/online-degree-programs/college-credit-certificates/medical-billing-and-coding/
- https://www.healthjob.org/guide/online-medical-billing-and-coding-schools
- https://www.bestcolleges.com/healthcare/certificate/medical-coding/
- https://www.chcp.edu/degrees-certificates/online/medical-billing-and-coding-classes/
- http://www.lsua.edu/continuingeducation/online-training/medical-billing-and-coding-training
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