Medical records specialists are in demand as more older people need medical services. If you're interested in medical billing and coding, an affordable certificate program can be a good investment. You'll learn medical terminology and coding procedures in a flexible learning environment.
Learn more about affordable online medical billing and coding certificates and diploma programs.
Popular Online Medical Coding Programs
Affordable Online Medical Billing and Coding Certificates and Diplomas of 2024
1. Eastern Gateway Community College
Cost per Credit: In-State $131-$137 depending on county of residence in Ohio; Out-of-State | $138
Credits to Graduate: 38
Eastern Gateway Community College, which boasts the fourth lowest tuition rate in Ohio, offers an affordable and fast pathway into a medical coding career. The medical coding specialist certificate, completed over three semesters with a summer term, prepares students for clinical coding positions in hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices, and insurance firms, among other settings.
After completing the certificate coursework and acquiring relevant work experience, learners can take the qualifying exam to become a certified coding associate and, with further experience, a certified coding specialist.
2. Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
Cost per Credit: In-State | $371; Out-of-State | $371
Credits to Graduate: 44
Those looking for an affordable and flexible online coding program should consider Purdue University Global's medical coding/billing certificate. Students can complete this American Health Information Management Association-approved certificate program in as little as 11 months. In addition to coursework, a required 40-hour practicum at a site chosen by the student provides valuable hands-on experience.
Graduates are prepared for certification exams to qualify for several professional credentials, including certified billing and coding associate, certified billing and coding specialist, and insurance and coding specialist.
3. Drexel University
Cost per Credit: In-State $125; Out-of-State | $125
Credits to Graduate: 30
Whether just entering the field or holding prior experience, the fully online certificate in medical billing and coding at Drexel University has the flexibility to meet students' needs. Organized into four 10-week quarters per year, the 10-course program typically takes 18 months to complete, much quicker than a traditional semester-based certificate. Students can sit for certification exams after completing the second part of the billing and coding courses, enabling them to gain certification even before finishing the program.
4. West Georgia Technical College
Cost per Credit: In-State $100; Out-of-State | $200
Credits to Graduate: 24
West Georgia Technical College's medical coding certificate delivers a flexible fully online learning format and affordable tuition. Students take eight courses over two semesters that provide foundational knowledge in the structure and function of the human body, medical terminology, document production, and human diseases.
Specialized coursework in medical coding and billing provides advanced training for professional services that includes the CPT, ICD-10-CM Code Set, and HCPCS Level II classification systems. The program prepares students to take the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam.
5. Cowley County Community College
Cost per Credit: In-State $160 for residents of Cowley County; $170 for other Kansas residents; Out-of-State | $220
Credits to Graduate: 35
The online medical coding program at Cowley County Community provides a convenient and affordable pathway to a healthcare information career while preparing students to sit for medical coding certification exams. The 10-course curriculum covers medical and current procedural terminology, reimbursement methodologies, and international classification of disease coding. Students learn how to use the CPT, HCPCS, and ICD 9/10 coding systems in preparation for a practicum in an online virtual medical office setting.
Crowley distance learners qualify for the same financial aid opportunities as campus-based students.
6. Pima Community College
Cost per Credit: In-State $92; Out-of-State | $224
Credits to Graduate: 28-30.5
Pima Community College's online medical billing and coding certificate puts students on track for a career in the rapidly growing field of health information technology. The three-semester certificate includes one summer term. In the final semester, learners may pursue an internship in health information technology that provides professional experience at an approved worksite or through a project-based study.
Distance learners may qualify for financial aid and the option to apply all 30 credits earned in the certificate program to Pima's 60-credit associate degree in healthcare information technology.
7. University of Alaska Fairbanks
Cost per Credit: In-State $234; Out-of-State | $234
Credits to Graduate: 15
For those seeking practical career training in an affordable and flexible format, the online occupational endorsement in medical coding at the University of Alaska Fairbanks lets students take courses at their own pace, full or part time. The 15-credit curriculum covers medical office technology, medical terminology, human diseases, and medical coding.
The program prepares learners for national certifications required for most medical coding positions, including the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) coding exam and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) exam.
8. Columbus State Community College
Cost per Credit: In-State $176; Out-of-State | $726
Credits to Graduate: 22
The Columbus State Community College's medical coding certificate provides the entry-level skills needed for employment in the health information technology and management field. The three-semester curriculum trains students in medical terminology, medical reimbursement, and ICD-10, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT-4 medical coding. The program culminates with a field experience course requiring 90 hours at a professional practice site.
The medical certificate, offered primarily online, requires some on-campus coursework. Some online courses may require learners to visit campus for exams and meetings.
9. CUNY Graduate School and University Center
Cost per Credit: In-State | $305; Out-of-State | $350
Credits to Graduate: 36
CUNY's online certificate in medical coding helps students qualify for national certification and entry-level coding positions in hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices, insurance companies, and other healthcare settings.
Admission to the program requires a high school diploma or GRE and proficiency in reading and writing. Once admitted, learners must maintain a minimum grade of C in all 12 required courses. The program features a unique culminating capstone that allows enrollees to apply diagnostic and procedural coding skills learned in coursework in a virtual or field-based practical setting.
10. San Juan College
Cost per Credit: In-State | $56; Out-of-State | $178
Credits to Graduate: 29-32
The online medical insurance coder/billing certificate at San Juan College prepares learners to take the
Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam, qualifying them for entry-level jobs in health information technology. The certificate, which takes four semesters, provides training in medical terminology, medical reimbursement, and the CPT-4, HCPCS, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS coding systems.
A unique coding seminar, taken in the final semester, prepares students for the national certification exam and provides career-oriented assistance with job interview skills, resume writing, and professional conduct.
What is a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program?
Medical billing and coding specialists play a key role in the healthcare system. They assign clinical codes to patient records to track procedures, diagnoses, and other medical information. Medical billers also submit records for insurance reimbursement.
You can become a medical biller or coder with a certificate program. These programs generally take around one year, although the length can vary depending on the program.
During a medical billing and coding certificate, you'll likely take courses in:
- Medical Terminology
- Diagnosis and Procedure Coding
- Principles of Medical Insurance
- Reimbursement and Legal Compliance
- Medical Office Administration
After graduation, you can qualify for careers as a medical biller, medical coder, or medical records specialist.
What is the Difference Between Medical Billing and Coding Certifications and Certificates?
Colleges and universities offer medical billing and coding certificate programs that train you in medical terminology, coding systems, and health data standards. In contrast, professional organizations offer medical billing and coding certifications that recognize your knowledge and experience in the field
If you're preparing for a career in this field, you'll need a certificate. If you're already a medical billing and coding professional, a certification can help you advance your career.
Certifications
- Typically offered by professional organizations
- Require a mix of education and experience
- Measure candidates against nationally recognized standards
- Often includes a certification exam
- Employers may prefer candidates with particular certifications
Certificates
- Typically offered by colleges and other educational institutions
- Require earning college credit to receive a diploma or certificate
- Often takes around one year to complete
- Students pay tuition and complete courses
- Meets the educational requirement for careers in medical billing and coding
How to Become a Medical Biller or Coder
Want to work as a medical biller or coder? You'll need a specialized certificate or diploma to launch your career in this field. Here's how you can work in medical billing and coding:
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Finish a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program.
Many medical billers, coders, and medical records specialists complete a certificate or diploma to enter the field. While you may qualify for roles without a certificate, you'll gain hands-on skills and industry-specific experience during a program. Completing a certificate program can help you land your first job in medical billing and coding.
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Earn a Medical Billing and Coding Certification.
Earning professional certification demonstrates your knowledge to prospective employers. Many states require some form of certification.
After finishing a certificate or diploma, consider a medical records or coding certification. Multiple organizations offer professional certifications, including AAPC certification and AHIMA certification. Your certificate program can help you determine the professional certification for your career goals.
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Gain Medical Billing and Coding Experience.
You can qualify for entry-level medical billing and coding jobs with a certificate or diploma. Gaining experience and pursuing professional certification can help you stand out to employers, advance your career, and increase your earning potential.
With relevant experience, you can also consider moving into specialized roles such as a health information technologist or medical registrar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Medical Billing and Coding Certificates
How Much Does a Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding Cost?
A medical billing and coding certificate can cost anywhere from $4,200- $19,500. Because the cost of a certificate program varies widely, it's a good idea to research the most affordable online medical billing and coding certificate programs to keep your expenses low.
Is a Medical Billing and Coding Certification Worth It?
Pursuing professional certification in medical billing and coding can pay off. People with an AAPC professional coding certification report a median pay of $64,000, according to Jan. 2024 Payscale data. Earning certification can increase your salary potential.
Which Certification Is Best for Medical Billing and Coding?
Medical billing and coding specialists can pursue several professional certifications that can help their careers. Common certifications include certified professional coder (CPC), certified coding specialist (CCS), and certified billing and coding specialist (CBCS). The CPC credential is considered the gold standard for medical billing and coding certification, but be sure to review the certification requirements and cost to decide which is right for you.
How much does it cost to get CPC certified?
CPC certification costs $499 for the certification exam. After passing the exam and completing the certification process, you must maintain your credential by meeting continuing education requirements.
AAPC, which offers CPC certification, also offers other medical billing and coding certifications.
Is it hard to get a medical coding job without experience?
You may find it challenging to find a job as a medical biller or coding without any coding experience, even if you have a certificate.
Many employers prefer to hire medical coders with experience. However, medical billing or coding certifications can help your professional skills stand out. You may also pursue roles with small or private outpatient settings rather than large hospital systems that prefer experienced medical billers and coders.