Medical Coding and Billing Schools: A Comprehensive Guide

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Posted Nov 21, 2024

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Medical coding and billing schools offer a wide range of programs, from certificate to associate's degrees, to help students get started in this field.

These programs typically take one to two years to complete and can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and online institutions.

Students can expect to learn about medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and coding systems, as well as the business side of medical billing and coding.

What to Know

Medical coding and billing schools can be a great career path for those who enjoy working with numbers and want to make a difference in people's lives.

The median salary for medical billers and coders is around $40,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

You'll need to earn a certification or associate's degree from a medical coding and billing school to get started.

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) are two well-respected organizations that offer certifications for medical coders and billers.

Most medical coding and billing programs take around 12-18 months to complete and can be done online or in a classroom setting.

Some medical coding and billing schools also offer specializations in areas like medical billing and coding for specific specialties, such as pediatrics or surgery.

Education Options

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You can earn a Medical Billing and Coding diploma in just 11 months, which prepares you for entry-level roles and includes certification preparation.

The completion time for a Medical Billing and Coding associate degree can vary, but you can earn it in 18 months.

UMA's medical billing and coding career path offers options for earning a diploma as well as an associate degree, and you can find more information about their programs in their catalog or by calling 888-213-4473.

Diploma

If you're interested in a diploma in medical billing and coding, you've got options. Medical Billing and Coding Diploma programs are available, which can prepare you for entry-level roles in the field. These programs typically include certification preparation, so you can be ready to take on the challenges of medical billing and coding.

You can earn a diploma in as little as 11 months, which is a relatively quick completion time. This can be a great option if you want to get into the workforce quickly.

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Here are some key skills you can learn in a medical billing and coding diploma program:

  • How to apply CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding guidelines to identify diagnoses, procedures, and patient medical records
  • How to identify procedures for patient record retrieval and reimbursement
  • How to explain the role of a medical coder as a liaison between the health clinician and billing offices
  • How to apply computer and information literacy skills using electronic health records software

These skills will give you a solid foundation in medical billing and coding, and prepare you for a career in the field.

Meet the Instructor

Our instructors are dedicated professionals with real-world experience, and that's exactly what you'll get at U.S. Career Institute. They're committed to delivering high-quality curriculum that prepares you for success in your chosen field.

Cindy Bracy, our Medical Coding & Billing Specialist instructor, is a great example of this. She earned her Master of Public Health Informatics (MPH) degree from the University of Chicago.

With over 15 years of experience as a medical coder, Cindy brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Career and Skills

You can train to become a medical biller or coder in a relatively short period, with many students earning their Certificate online while working part-time. This field is a key driver behind the modern healthcare industry, and without it, healthcare professionals wouldn't be able to transfer important data and get paid for their services.

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The medical billing and coding field is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, with an average of 41,300 job openings each year. This is in contrast to the decline in employment for secretaries and administrative assistants, which is expected to decrease by 10% over the same period.

To become a medical biller and coder, you'll need to check various healthcare organizations, including physicians' offices, hospitals, healthcare organizations, and insurance companies. This will give you a good understanding of the different roles and responsibilities involved in the field.

In a typical medical billing and coding program, you'll learn medical terminology, the insurance billing process, medical diagnostic codes, and more. You'll also gain an understanding of healthcare settings, medical law and ethics, claims processing, records management, and other relevant skills.

Some of the key skills you'll learn as a medical biller and coder include:

  • Demonstrating proficiency in reviewing and assigning medical codes across a wide range of medical services
  • Facilitating timely reimbursement by preparing and submitting claims with accurately assigned codes
  • Using EHR/EMR systems to research, code, and abstract patient information and other coded data
  • Supporting the efficient operation of a medical office by accurately reviewing, documenting, and maintaining patient financial records
  • Effectively communicating with other medical professionals using correct medical and insurance terminology in written and oral communication
  • Assisting with patient registration and intake
  • Providing CPR and First Aid
  • Relating and applying concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior, and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in your career and personal life
  • Demonstrating the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes, and behavior that employers expect of all graduates

Overall, a career in medical billing and coding can be a rewarding and challenging field that offers a range of opportunities for growth and development.

Online Education

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Pursuing an education in medical billing and coding can be done online, making it a flexible option for those with busy schedules. You can earn your Medical Billing and Coding associate degree in 18 months or your diploma in 11 months.

Online programs offer a convenient way to learn from the comfort of your own home. You could be on your way to pursuing a career in the medical billing and coding field in just a short amount of time.

Many online programs allow you to learn at your own pace, which can be especially helpful for those who need to balance school with work or family responsibilities. This flexibility can be a major advantage for those who might not have been able to pursue a traditional education otherwise.

You could be earning your degree or diploma in as little as 11 months, which is a relatively short amount of time compared to traditional programs.

Course Information

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Our medical coding and billing schools offer a comprehensive program that prepares you for a career in this field. You'll learn diagnostic coding for MBC, introduction to computers, and medical law, ethics, and records management.

Certification in medical billing and coding is not always required for entry-level positions, but it can give you an edge in the job market. Our degree and diploma programs help prepare you to sit for the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification exam.

In our medical billing and coding course, you'll learn everything you need to know through practical instruction. This includes researching and assigning diagnostics and procedural codes to medical records, processing medical bills, and overviews of common claim forms, medical terminology, and ethical issues for healthcare professionals.

Some of the topics we cover include how the human body works, medical terminology, and CPT and ICD-10-CM coding language. You'll also learn how coding impacts healthcare, how medical procedures and diagnoses are coded, and how to use coding software and the Internet to boost your productivity and earnings.

Our medical coding and billing program instructor, Cynthia Bracy, MPH, RHIA, is a course expert who can guide you through the program. Our student support team is also available to help you focus on exam-focused material and provide support in areas where you might need extra help.

Cost & Aid

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At medical coding and billing schools, the cost of education can be a significant investment. If you qualify for financial aid, advisors will guide you through the process.

Multiple resources are available to help pay for the cost of your education. Student Finance advisors are committed to helping you understand your options.

There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. You can visit the Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid.

Student loans, grants, and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Career and Outcomes

Medical billing and coding is a crucial part of the modern healthcare industry, and it's a field that's in high demand.

Medical coders translate written information into numeric or alphanumeric codes, while billing specialists use that information to create bills and claims for insurance companies.

You can train to become a medical biller or coder quickly, earning a certificate online and working part-time as you study.

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The average salary for medical billing and coding jobs varies by experience, with those in the 0-1 year range earning around $40,000-$50,000 per year.

In some states, medical billing and coding jobs can pay upwards of $65,000 per year, with New Jersey, Rhode Island, and New York being among the highest paying states.

To work in this field, you'll need to check the state licensing requirements, as they vary from state to state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements.

Here are some of the highest paying states for medical billing and coding jobs:

  • New Jersey: $65,568
  • Rhode Island: $65,110
  • New York: $62,369

Remember to check the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where you plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in a program.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to learn medical billing and coding?

Typically, it takes 4-15 months to earn a medical billing and coding certificate. You can complete this training even faster with an online program, ideal for working professionals.

What degree is best for medical billing and coding?

To become a medical biller and coder, a degree in Health Information Management or Healthcare Administration is often preferred, which typically requires completing general education requirements alongside major-specific classes. Consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in one of these fields for a strong foundation in medical billing and coding.

What is the best certification for billing and coding?

While the CPC certification is the most popular, the best credential for billing and coding depends on your career stage and goals, with options like CCS, CMC, and CPB also available. Consider your objectives to choose the certification that suits you best.

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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