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Finding the top cheapest medical coding and billing programs, diplomas, and certificates is advantageous to reap excellent tuition ROI while saving green. In May 2017, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the 204,220 health information technicians made $25,810 to $64,610 yearly. The AAPC Knowledge Center showed that average medical coding and billing pay jumped from $46,147 with no college experience to $50,879 with certificates. Getting professionally credentialed also jacks up income potential by a mean $1,626 yearly. Therefore, we endeavored to locate affordable on-campus and online options for this emerging health care profession using the College Navigator tool. We visited the website of 50+ accredited medical coding and billing schools to total up current in-state tuition based on credits required. In alphabetical order, below you’ll find some of the top cheapest medical coding and billing programs, diplomas, and certificates that charge under $3,500 total!

Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta Technical College, James magazine’s #5 best two-year institution also placed #4 on AffordableColleges.com, lets diploma or GED recipients aged 16+ begin the Medical Coding Certificate of Credit Program. The 24-credit, two-semester plan advised by Prof. Shannon Scurry needs 2.0 GPAs in subjects like Procedural Coding and Allied Health.

Estimated Total: $2,816

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Atlanta Technical College here.

Cedar Valley College

Cedar Valley College, the 2014 Phi Theta Kappa Most Distinguished Chapter Award winner ranked 356th on WalletHub, grants CPC review help via the Medical Billing and Coding Certificate on Blackboard. The 32-credit, two-semester sequence led by Prof. Nasko Arsov tests topics from Coding Classifications to Medication Therapy.

Estimated Total: $2,170

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Cedar Valley College here.

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Central Maine Community College

Central Maine Community College, the Digital Community Colleges Survey’s #3 top pick with 2,700 enrolled, awards the Medical Coding & Electronic Health Records Certificate online using CMConnect. The 32-credit, NEASC-accredited micro option directed by Prof. Kathy McManus spans one year of cheap courses from Anatomy to Claim Processing.

Estimated Total: $3,008

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Central Maine Community College here.

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College of Western Idaho

The College of Western Idaho, WalletHub’s 173rd best two-year school for career outcomes, follows AAPC standards for a Medical Coding Certification of Completion at Ada County’s Quail Building or on Blackboard. The 80-hour, 26-week option overseen by Prof. Sabina Omair speeds through topics like Medical Terminology and Insurance Law.

Estimated Total: $1,825

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at the College of Western Idaho here.

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Colorado Mountain College

Colorado Mountain College, CNN Money’s 17th best associate institution for student success, offers the Medical Billing & Coding Certificate at the Vail Valley campus or online using Canvas. The 29-credit, HLC-accredited major managed by Prof. Amy Connerton bridges content like Health Ethics and Office Administration with 135 internship hours.

Estimated Total: $2,320

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Colorado Mountain College here.

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Cosumnes River College

Cosumnes River College, the Chronicle of Higher Education’s #9 most diverse two-year institute, boasts a 92 percent success rate for the Certificate of Achievement in its CAHIIM-accredited Health Information Technology Department. The 27-unit, 64-week track coordinated by Prof. Steve Kim spans ICD-CM Coding to Database Systems online.

Estimated Total: $1,262

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Cosumnes River College here.

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Fayetteville Technical Community College

Fayetteville Technical Community College, Military Times’ #3 best for vets school with 250+ programs, logs into Blackboard for an SACS-accredited Medical Coding Specialist Certificate Online. The 18-credit, two-term sequence organized by Prof. Denise DeDeaux blends cheap eight-week courses from Insurance Billing to Procedure Coding.

Estimated Total: $2,394

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Fayetteville Technical Community College here.

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Great Basin College

Great Basin College, the U.S. News & World Report’s 227th best online undergrad choice, admitted Fall 2018 cohorts for a Professional Medical Coding and Billing Certificate on WebCampus. The 34-credit, NWCCU-accredited plan coordinated by Prof. Madison Arbillaga requires 85 percent averages in classes like Outpatient Coding and Anatomy.

Estimated Total: $3,230

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Great Basin College here.

Hinds Community College

Hinds Community College, Community College Week’s #7 best two-year institution for African Americans, provides the Medical Data Technology Career Certificate in Jackson or Rankin for $1,440 each term. The 30-credit, SACS-accredited track headed by Prof. Michelle McGuffee has courses like Microsoft Excel, CPT Coding, and Accounting.

Estimated Total: $2,880

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Lanier Technical College

Lanier Technical College, Great Value Colleges’ 30th most affordable online choice with the 118th best outcomes on WalletHub, keeps the Health Information Technology Specialist Certificate cheap at $89 per credit. The 13-credit, part-time program supervised by Dr. Deanne Collins has Oakwood courses like Intro to HIT and Patient Records.

Estimated Total: $1,157

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Madison Area Technical College

Madison Area Technical College, Niche’s 181st safest campus and College Factual’s 28th top allied health school, utilizes a Flex Choice format for the Medical Coding Specialist Diploma in Truax or online. The 25-credit, nine-month track chaired by Prof. Deborah Bebeau blends 18 practice hours into topics from Human Disease to HIM Foundations.

Estimated Total: $3,216

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Madison Area Technical College here.

Ogeechee Technical College

Ogeechee Technical College, Community College Week’s 34th top associate producer, signs into Blackboard for the Online Medical Coding Certificate with 97.8 percent job placement. The 24-credit, 30-week plan directed by Prof. Priscilla Fisher mandates minimum 830 SAT scores before classes like Body Structure and Document Production.

Estimated Total: $2,876

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Ogeechee Technical College here.

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Paris Junior College

Paris Junior College, Community College Week’s 31st fastest-growing school with a 18 percent enrollment uptick, launched an AHIMA-approved Medical Records Coding Diploma in 2015. The 34-credit, three-term option moderated by Prof. Ron Vrba accepts applicants in January for cheap classes like Software Applications and Ambulatory Coding.

Estimated Total: $2,720

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Paris Junior College here.

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Phoenix College

Phoenix College, WalletHub’s 264th best two-year value ranked #5 in Arizona by PayScale for mid-career median pay of $63,500, created the Hospital-Based Certificate of Completion in Medical Coding. The 35-unit, PCAP-approved program administered by Prof. Tracy Domino saves money during courses from Computer Usage to Pharmacology.

Estimated Total: $2,975

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Phoenix College here.

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Saddleback College

Saddleback College, Washington Monthly’s 52nd best two-year school for adult learners, reports 100 percent overall satisfaction for its AHIMA-approved Medical Coding Specialist Certificate of Achievement. The 32-unit curriculum mapped by Prof. Safiah Mamoon includes eight-week online courses like Information Systems and Reimbursement.

Estimated Total: $1,472

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Saddleback College here.

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Santa Barbara City College

Santa Barbara City College, a 2013 Aspen Prize for Excellence finalist ranked #1 by Value Colleges, has the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate for CCA credentialing online on Canvas. The 38-unit, AHIMA-approved program chaired by Dr. Gwyer Schuyler takes two years with affordable courses like Disease Classification and Pathophysiology.

Estimated Total: $2,748

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Santa Barbara City College here.

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Santa Bernardino Valley College

San Bernardino Valley College, the 2017 BIA Good Government Award winner ranked #2 for South California ROI on PayScale, grants the Medical Coding and Billing Certificate within one year. The 22-unit, WASC-accredited major advised by Prof. Reginald Metu has low-cost courses like Electronic Health Records and Keyboarding for CPC prep.

Estimated Total: $1,238

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Santa Bernardino Valley College here.

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Tyler Junior College

Tyler Junior College, Niche’s 146th best campus chosen among the 2019 Aspen Prize for Excellence finalists, houses a Medical Coding Certificate within its CAHIIM-accredited Health Science Division. The 36-credit hybrid CCA sequence chaired by Dr. Cliff Boucher starts each Summer with topics like Billing Methodologies and Data Content.

Estimated Total: $2,962

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Tyler Junior College here.

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Wharton County Junior College

Wharton County Junior College, a 2017 Aspen Prize for Excellence finalist placed #1 in Texas by BestColleges.com, prepares for 15.4 percent job growth with its Health Information Technology Level I Certificate. The 18-credit, SACS-accredited option managed by Prof. Debbie Lutringer mixes cheap classes from Coding & Insurance to Data Analysis.

Estimated Total: $2,769

Learn more about the Top Medical Coding and Billing Programs at Wharton County Junior College here.

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Becoming a medical coding and billing clerk is one of the most recommended career paths for workers disinterested in direct patient care. In fact, the U.S. News & World Report ranked it America’s #68 best job with “above average” work-life balance. Medical coding and billing clerks trade the stress of disease monitoring and invasive surgeries for detailed computer work. These health IT technicians stay behind the screen while still benefiting from a huge $7.07 trillion industry that’s forecasting 2.3 million new hires by 2025 on CNN Money. Keyboards are medical coding and billing clerks’ scalpels to dissect complex patient files for insurance classification. Their duties are administrative to accurately record diagnoses and treatments for successful reimbursement claims. Keeping patient data secure under HIPAA is also paramount since Becker Hospital Review found 5.6 million records were breached in 2017 alone. Think you have what it takes to fulfill demand for this essential health service? Here are four simple steps to quickly become a medical coding and billing clerk.

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Research the Medical Coding and Billing Field

Choosing a profession should always begin with ample research. Especially since Fortune found that only 51 percent of U.S. workers are satisfied in their roles. Thus, start by discovering what medical coding and billing clerks really do. Review ICD-10 code book samples to better understand the career’s technical specifics. Resource books, such as Understanding Medical Coding, can help test your interest. Perhaps join AAPC’s 175,000 members who read Healthcare Business Monthly for career tips. Other professionals can share insider’s knowledge on what medical coding and billing is like. After reading our website’s FAQs, visit Google to inquire about the job requirements. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers salary snapshots to decide whether the average pay meets your needs. Infit Healthcare has an excellent personality quiz to determine if medical coding and billing clerk is your calling too.

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Pick a Medical Coding and Billing Clerk Certificate

Congrats on selecting medical coding and billing clerk as your goal! Next comes the training part to specialize your office skills. Certificates are the fastest option for high school diploma or GED recipients to learn the ins and outs. The Institute of Education Sciences states that the number of certificates awarded has risen by 41 percent since 2013 to 969,000 per year. These short-term programs take three to 16 months to grasp the basic concepts of health IT protocol. Medical coding and billing curricula packs a punch of valuable content in just 30 credits on average. The NCES College Navigator lists over 500 colleges, both traditional and online, offering this certificate major. Great options include Carrington College, the University of South Alabama, Red Rocks Community College, Lehman College, Manor College, the University of Houston-Downtown, and Glendale Community College. Always check that your target schools hold accreditation approved by the U.S. Department of Education for sound academics.

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Take Medical Coding and Billing Certification Exams

Earning a postsecondary certificate for training is very different than professional certification. Third, hopeful medical coding and billing clerks should choose an apt industry credential. More than letters after your name, this certification proves to employers you’ve met a trusted third-party associations’ qualifications. For example, the AAPC celebrates its 30th year of awarding the Certified Professional Coder title to over 105,000. The CPC program involves taking a 150-question, six-hour proctored exam costing $380. Another similar choice is Certified Professional Biller (CPB), which tests revenue cycle smarts in 200 multiple-choice questions. Likewise, the AHIMA designates Certified Coding Specialists with at least 12 months of experience. This CCS credential is available after passing a four-hour, 97-question $399 exam at Pearson VUE centers. Study using free online test prep materials for weeks instead of cramming the night before to improve your chances of success.

Advance Medical Coding and Billing Abilities to the Associate Level

Openings for medical coding and billing clerks on websites like Monster or Indeed typically only require a college certificate. The AAPC’s Project Extern requests just current certification for entry-level positions at its 200+ partners too. So why should you consider further education? Transferring credits toward an associate degree will open the most professional doors. The Labor Department predicts 13 percent growth by 2026 for 27,800 new health IT jobs, but competition can still be fierce. Two-year associate programs frequently give a edge for medical coding and billing jobs with greater responsibility. Therefore, you’ll be able to apply for job titles like manager or supervisor for higher pay. Currently, 175 U.S. schools house these degrees. Excellent choices include Northwestern Technical College, Keiser University, Central Maine Community College, Herzing University, Delaware County Community College, and Daytona College. The extra effort can add more in-depth patient records expertise to your LinkedIn to become a medical coding and billing clerk with upward mobility.

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Medical coding and billing programs are one of the cheapest college-level routes into the $3 trillion health industry. Student Loan Hero reported that the average community college price is only $135 per credit or $3,570 yearly. That’s a big bargain considering that nurses and doctors can spend up to $250,000 on education! Medical billers and coders have found that getting an exciting, well-paid hospital career doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Low tuition is likely why Inside Higher Ed found that certificates constitute 22 percent of college awards now. Over half of these diplomas come from public institutions with state funding to reduce students’ out-of-pocket fees too. Nevertheless, any charges for medical coding and billing training could be tough to swallow depending on your financial situation. Scholarships are the answer to receive one-time or recurring checks that cover partial to whole MCB tuition. Based on max prize amount, we’ve arranged 20 of the top medical coding and billing scholarships that crush money woes.

1. Robert D. Kruse Memorial Scholarship

Amount: $5,000

Created for the Cleveland Clinic’s physical therapy director in 1962, the Robert D. Kruse Memorial Scholarship can support full-time certificate or associate students who pursue in-need health fields like medical coding with minimum 2.5 GPAs. Mail applications with 400-word essays, transcripts, two references, and the FAFSA by April 30th.

2. Steven Cutter Undergraduate Scholarship

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Amount: $5,000

The Foundation for Seacoast Health runs the Steven Cutter Undergraduate Scholarship until April 1st to help associate and bachelor’s majors, including medical coders or billers, afford full-time tuition. Residing locally in Portsmouth, North Hampton, Greenland, Rye, New Castle, Kittery, York, or Newington for 24+ months is required.

3. Swedish Institute NYC College Scholarship

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Amount: $5,000

Enrolling 735+ students, the Swedish Institute NYC is an ACCSC-accredited health sciences school offering the Medical Billing and Coding Scholarship for its 48-credit diploma with 95 percent exam success. Funding is reserved for career-changers with previous bachelor’s or master’s study who provide solid recommendations.

4. Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship Program

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Amount: $4,080

Medical coding majors at Sullivan University, Campbellsville University, or any KCTCS college qualify for full in-state tuition coverage by the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship Program. On a first-come basis, candidates who are U.S. citizens, high school or GED graduates, and academically eligible with cumulative GPAs over 2.0 are chosen.

5. Greater Illinois HIMSS Chapter Scholarship

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Amount: $2,500

Based in Chicago, the Greater Illinois HIMSS Chapter Scholarship aids undergrads who’ve finished at least one semester at accredited colleges for degrees focused on health information technology like coding. “Prairie State” residents send transcripts showing 3.0 GPAs, letters from superiors, and three short essays by 5:00PM on Halloween.

6. NTC Workforce Development Scholarship

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Amount: $2,500

Ranked 21st nationally on Niche, Northwest Technical College in Bemidji utilizes part of its $43.9 million budget to confer up to 400 Workforce Development Scholarships for five in-demand areas, including medical coding. Before February 16, Minnesota residents must prove high school diploma or GED receipt and full-time enrollment.

7. Mary Ann Stiefvater Medical Information Scholarship

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Amount: $2,500

Honoring her 50-year RHIT career, the Conway Regional Health Foundation awards the Mary Ann Stiefvater Medical Information Scholarship to Arkansas students age 18+ who’re choosing health records careers, such as billing and coding. Attach your 200-word essay, letter of acceptance, ACT score, or transcript by February 28th.

8. Melissa Anne Centrella Scholarship

Amount: $2,000

Since 2002, the Melissa Anne Centrella Scholarship has remembered the extraordinary 20-year-old who passed from dystonia by giving financial aid to New Jerseyans picking any medical sciences occupation, even coding. After March 15th, applicants are evaluated for academic merit, community service, essay content, and determination.

9. Oliver Joel and Ellen Pell Denny Scholarship

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Amount: $1,500

The Winston-Salem Foundation oversees the Oliver Joel and Ellen Pell Denny Scholarship to financially bolster North Carolina residents during their certificate, two-year, or four-year health education if overall 2.5 GPAs are maintained. Meet the July 31st deadline for the online applications, transcripts, tax returns, and acceptance letters.

10. Community Care College Military Spouse Scholarship

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Amount: $1,500

Established by Teresa Knox in 1995, Community Care College is a nonprofit, ACICS-accredited Tulsa institute where the Military Spouse Scholarship gives back to married partners of Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard service members. This 12-month fund applies to all 46 diplomas, including medical billing and coding.

11. Sharps Compliance, Inc. Scholarship Contest

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Amount: $1,500

For Fall 2018, the Sharps Compliance, Inc. Scholarship Contest asked entrants to submit 1,500-word original essays before June 11th that brainstormed how prescription drug collection programs aid the opioid epidemic. Both U.S. and Canadian citizens can apply if full-time attendance in accredited health-related programs is verified.

12. Kansas Career Technical Workforce Grant

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Amount: $1,000

The Kansas Board of Regents launched the Career Technical Workforce Grant for graduates of the Sunflower State’s high schools who choose qualifying vocational programs, such as medical coding and billing, at 19 KACCT campuses. Getting the four-semester renewable fund requires submitting the FAFSA application before May 1st.

13. Paula and Ron Lawlor Endowed Scholarship

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Amount: $1,000

Funded by the President of Accuity Delivery Systems, the Paula and Ron Lawlor Endowed Scholarship is an AHIMA Foundation option for working learners choosing HIM careers like coding and billing. Nontraditional students taking 6+ credits for a minimum 3.5 average can’t miss the online application window of July 1st to September 30th.

14. ACHF Medical Assistant Student Scholarship

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Amount: $1,000

Partnered with Ridgewater College, the Affiliated Community Health Foundation (ACHF) began the Medical Assistant Student Scholarship in 2004 to assist those applying by April 15th. Coding specialist students qualify if they’re admitted at least half-time, completing 67 percent or higher of credits, and carrying minimum 2.0 GPAs.

15. Kim Fuller & Louise Bighaus Scholarship

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Amount: $1,000

Linked to 5,606 LinkedIn alumni, Rogue Community College is a two-year, NWCCU-accredited institution ranked eighth in Oregon by Niche that helps students into 80+ programs with funds like the Kim Fuller & Louise Bighaus Scholarship. Learners with at least nine credits and 2.5 GPAs in the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate qualify.

16. St. Mary Mercy Livonia Medical Scholarship

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Amount: $1,000

Until June 1st, the St. Mary Mercy Livonia Medical Scholarship processes official transcripts, résumés, and 500-word essays from Michigan residents who’ve chosen vocations in healthcare, including medical coding. Note only Stevenson, Churchill, Franklin, Ladywood, Clarenceville, Livonia Technical, or Western Wayne seniors are eligible.

17. A Place for Mom Senior Wisdom Video Scholarship

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Amount: $1,000

Each quarter, A Place for Mom hosts the Senior Wisdom Video Scholarship Contest for U.S. or Canada, excluding Quebec, residents who are starting accredited medical certificate or degree programs like coding and billing. Simply record a two-minute MP4 video sharing stories of how older adults positively influence our lives and overall society.

18. Scott W. Hulstein Scholarship Fund

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Amount: $750

Medical billing and coding majors who finish high school in Wisconsin’s Jefferson County can receive the Scott W. Hulstein Scholarship from Fort HealthCare, a 2016 AHA Gold Achievement Award winner. Eligibility relies on devotion to medical education, two non-familial references, overall 3.0 GPAs or better, and application by April 1st.

19. Waldo County General Hospital Scholarship

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Amount: $600

Administered by Lauri McLean, the Waldo County General Hospital Scholarship utilizes MaineHealth profits to help the newest generation of medical staff, such as records coding technicians. By March 5th, Belfast residents or hospital employees and their dependents with unmet financial need must submit the one-page online application.

20. Portage Health Foundation Scholarship Program

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Amount: $500

Founded in 1990, the Portage Health Foundation Scholarship Program gifts $5,500 total to 11 Michigan high school seniors with GPAs above 2.5 who’ve chosen a medical-related college vocation or engaged in HOSA Future Health Professionals. Please submit a cover letter, transcript, proof of acceptance, and activity list by March 5th.

Ranked 13th by the U.S. News & World Report, this healthcare support career is struggling to recruit enough new talent for its 14 percent growth. Therefore, the possibilities for medical coding and billing scholarships keeps going with the Parley Health Professional Scholarship, Aboriginal Health Careers Scholarship, Good Samaritan Foundation Scholarship, Pearl Scholarship, Becky Burrows Memorial Scholarship, Ruth Shaw Board Scholarship, and more.

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For this article, we’ve set out to find the 25 Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing School Programs on U.S. campuses that provide training and maximize career investments. We accessed the NCES College Navigator to locate the cheapest MCB majors based on average in-state tuition data for 2017-18. Our advanced search filtered out certificate and associate degrees at public institutions for medical billers or coders. When the tuition max was marked to $5,000, the database returned 67 inexpensive results! Our next task was checking these low-cost options for quality regional accreditation. Preference was also given for accredited colleges on the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM) website. After arranging suitable schools from low to high, we kept only the 25 Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training School Programs costing under $3,200 yearly below.

1. San Juan College

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Granted the 2000 Zia Award for Quality New Mexico, San Juan College is a public open-access, HLC-accredited junior institution with an 87,442-square-foot Farmington facility to serve nearly 13,000. The School of Health Sciences has July 1st, November 1st, and April 1st deadlines for individuals with minimum 2.5 GPAs to enter the Medical Insurance Coder/Biller Certificate. Chaired by Prof. Deborah Honstad, this 40-credit, online program blends Canvas courses with 40-hour internships for CCA exam prep.

Annual Tuition: $1,474

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training School Programs at San Juan College here.

2. Meridian Technology Center

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Directed by Dr. Douglas Major, Meridian Technology Center is a public, two-year Oklahoma CareerTech institute and 2018 HOSA Silver Star Chapter Award winner in Stillwater that’s linked to 82,500 in 400 districts. The Health Insurance Coder Certificate is a full-time, adult-only option that aligns to the latest ICD-10 practices and physician notes. Finishing the 1,260-hour curriculum takes 11.5 months of real-world projects in Anatomy, Reimbursement Methodology, Patient Privacy, and more.

Annual Tuition: $1,800

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training School Programs at Meridian Technology Center here.

3. School District of Indian River County

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Ranked Florida’s 12th best district with the #1 top teachers by Niche, the School District of Indian River County led by Dr. Mark Rendell expands beyond its 27 K-12 buildings in Vero Beach with cheap adult education. The Medical Coder/Biller Certificate lets TABE exam passers study electronic health records Mondays through Thursdays at Treasure Coast Technical College. Boasting 90 percent completion, the 1,110-hour program can lead to National Healthcareer Association certifications.

Annual Tuition: $1,920

4. Tooele Technical College

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Located in Forbes’ 10th friendliest town below Oquirrh Mountain, Tooele Technical College is a public, two-year Utah System of Higher Education member opened in 2009 with 27 programs. For instance, the Allied Health & Nursing Division headed by Prof. Sheila Sferas awards the Medical Billing and Coding Certificate of Proficiency in just six months. This 630-hour, Pell Grant-eligible option admits students age 16+ into modules like Claim Processing for median starting pay of $16.74/hour.

Annual Tuition: $2,293

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing School Programs at Tooele Technical College here.

5. Oakland Community College

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Worth $25 billion total, Oakland Community College is Michigan’s 12th best public, lower-division school on BestColleges.com that’s grown since June 1964 to teach 82,000 Raiders at six locations. In Highland Lakes, the CAAHEP-accredited Medical Assisting Program grants a Medical Insurance Coding Certificate with 100 percent CPC success. The 16-credit track coordinated by Prof. Judy Hayes partners with Henry Ford Health for courses like Medical Ethics and a no-cost apprenticeship.

Annual Tuition: $2,360

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing School Programs at Oakland Community College here.

6. Lee College

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Chosen a 2018 Bellwether Award Finalist, Lee College is a public, Hispanic-serving Texas Aspen Prize winner ranked 76th nationally by Niche for training over 9,000 Runnin’ Rebels from a 40-acre Baytown campus. In the McNulty-Haddick Complex, the CAHIIM-accredited Allied Health Department grants the Certificate of Completion in Medical Coding in three terms. The 33-credit plan organized by Prof. Howard Bushart involves affordable courses like Health Data Content and AHIMA exam review.

Annual Tuition: $2,488

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing School Programs at Lee College here.

7. Collin County Community College

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Given a $3.99 million NSF Advancing Technology Education Grant, Collin County Community College is a public, SACS-accredited junior institution founded in 1985 that’s ranked fifth in Texas by BestColleges.com with 53,000 Cougars. The School of Health Sciences led by Prof. Gary Hodge prepares for the CPC exam with the Medical Coding Certificate Series. On Blackboard or in McKinney, the 352-hour, eight-month track integrates courses like HIPAA Compliance and Pathophysiology.

Annual Tuition: $2,538

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing School Programs at Collin County Community College here.

8. San Jacinto College

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Placed 28th nationally by Community College Week, San Jacinto College is a public, Hispanic-serving “Achieving the Dream Leader” institution opened in 1961 that’s enrolling 30,000 Gators in Greater Houston. The CAHIIM-accredited Health Occupations Division started the Certificate of Technology in Medical Bill and Coding for median salary of $37,685. Directed by Prof. Carla Ruffins, RHIA, the 30-credit curriculum applies North Campus courses like Classification Systems with 26 field experience hours.

Annual Tuition: $2,580

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at San Jacinto College here.

9. Mountainland Technical College

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Serving Provo-Orem Metro, Mountainland Technical College is a public, STEM-centric vocational institute established in 1989 and led by Clay Christensen, the 2016 UACTE Administrator of the Year, with 87 percent job placement. In Lehi or Spanish Fork, the Health Sciences Department provides the Medical Billing and Coding Certificate for $2,585. The 1,100-hour, open-entry program includes the CPC exam, CPR/First Aid certification, and possible credit transfer to Utah Valley University.

Annual Tuition: $2,585

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Mountainland Technical College here.

10. South Arkansas Community College

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First chartered by Governor Bill Clinton, South Arkansas Community College is a public, two-year El Dorado school and 2015 ABPG Workforce Development Award winner that’s budgeting $14.7 million to instruct 13,707 students. The Division of Health Sciences managed by Prof. Caroline Hammond starts a Technical Certificate in Medical Coding thrice yearly. Reporting a 75 percent AHIMA pass rate, the 36-credit program requires one clinical practicum after affordable courses like Information Processing.

Annual Tuition: $2,628

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at South Arkansas Community College here.

11. Columbus Technical College

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Named 10th nationally by The Knowledge Review, Columbus Technical College is a public, SACS-accredited junior institution that’s serving 5,231 students and hosting the 2018 FBLA Chapter of the Year in western Georgia. The Division of Health Sciences & Nursing in Wright Center confers the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate in 10-12 months. Headed by Prof. Nicole Jackson, the 24-credit option unlocks initial AHIMA certification after courses like Document Production are graded at least “C.”

Annual Tuition: $2,704

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Columbus Techniccal College here.

12. Southern Regional Technical College

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Gifting $17.9 million yearly, including the Non-Traditional Scholarship, Southern Regional Technical College is a public, two-unit TCSG constituent merged in 2015 under Dr. Craig Wentworth that’s ranked #1 in Georgia by BestColleges.com. The Medical Billing Clerk Technical Certificate utilizes the School of Health Sciences’ resources for 100 percent career placement in 28 weeks. At Thomasville, Moultrie, Tifton, and Cairo campuses, this 22-credit sequence accelerates toward CPB credentials.

Annual Tuition: $2,704

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Southern Regional Technical College here.

13. North Georgia Technical College

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Celebrating its 110th year, North Georgia Technical College is the oldest public, open-access TCSG member and 2015 GDEC Grant recipient that’s teaching 3,661 students with 70 percent retention. In Clarkesville or Blairsville, the Health Care Division guided by Prof. Farilyn Rearden has a Medical Coding Certificate worth around $2,734 total. The 24-credit, one-year program engages courses from Human Pathological Conditions to Medical Office Management with clinical partners like Habersham Center.

Annual Tuition: $2,734

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at North Georgia Technical College here.

14. Savannah Technical College

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Crowned America’s #1 best for vets school in Military Times, Savannah Technical College is a public, diverse market-driven TCSG member opened in 1929 that’s serving 4,500 in 150+ coastal programs. The Health Sciences Department has a 20:1 student-faculty ratio under Prof. Kathleen Bombery for its Medical Coding/Insurance Data Entry Certificate. Requiring Compass reading scores above 70, the 29-credit, three-term track covers ICD-10 methods in Savannah, Liberty, or Effingham.

Annual Tuition: $2,744

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Savannah Technical College here.

15. Georgia Northwestern Technical College

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Rated A+ by the BBB, Georgia Northwestern Technical College is a public, two-year Coosa Valley school and 2018 People’s Choice Award winner dedicated to giving 13,734 Bobcats “Education for Work.” The Health Technologies Department led by Prof. Frank Pharr offers the Medical Coding Technical Certificate at six campuses and 100 percent online via Blackboard. For 30 weeks, the 24-credit program prepares for healthcare documentation jobs with mid-career pay of $52,300 on PayScale.

Annual Tuition: $2,774

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Georgia Northwestern Technical College here.

16. Chattahoochee Technical College

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Home to the 2018 Rick Perkins Award for Excellence recipient, Chattahoochee Technical College is a public, eight-campus TCSG member in Marietta that’s ranked 10th by Atlanta Business Chronicle for serving 13,003 Eagles. Administered by Prof. Ron Webb, the Health Sciences Division starts a Medical Coding Specialization to the Health Care Assistant Certificate each August. The 33-credit, hybrid North Metro option adheres to AAPC guidelines with practice partners like Grady Hospital.

Annual Tuition: $2,782

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Chattahoochee Technical College here.

17. South Georgia Technical College

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Bestowed the 2018 Sumter County Partner of the Year Award, South Georgia Technical College is a public, Hope Grant-eligible junior institution marking its 70th year by training 2,100 Jets with 80 faculty. The Medical Assisting Division confers the Medical Coding Technical Certificate of Credit for $2,794 in-state in Americus or at Crisp County Center. Advised by Prof. Diana Skipper, the 24-credit, 30-week curriculum melds courses like Fundamentals of English and Procedural Coding.

Annual Tuition: $2,794

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at South Georgia Technical College here.

18. Augusta Technical College

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Ranked 19th nationally for education outcomes by WalletHub, Augusta Technical College is a public, SACS-accredited vocational school opened in 1961 that’s led by Dr. Terry Elam with nearly debt-free education for 4,379 Cougars. The Allied Health Sciences & Nursing Division maintains a 16:1 student-professor ratio for the Medical Coding Technical Certificate in Augusta and Thomson. Starting every Fall, the 24-credit, guided evening pathway has 99.8 percent job placement after courses like Human Disease.

Annual Tuition: $2,794

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at August Technical College here.

19. West Georgia Technical College

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Runner-up for the 2016 Sonny Perdue College of the Year Award, West Georgia Technical College is the third-largest public, seven-county TCSG constituent generating $70.6 million with 9,525 Golden Knights enrolled. Chaired by Prof. Daphney Bryan in Waco, the School of Health Sciences powers the Medical Coding Technical Certificate with Blackboard for high school or GED graduates typing 30+ wpm. The 24-credit, one-year online journey includes courses like Human Body Structure and Insurance Billing.

Annual Tuition: $2,838

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at West Georgia Technical College here.

20. College of the Mainland

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Operating a Five-Star Phi Beta Kappa Chapter, College of the Mainland is a public, two-year Galveston County school founded in 1966 that’s ranked fifth for STEM in Community College Week with 4,328 Fighting Ducks. The CAHIIM-accredited Health Information Management Program led by Prof. Kay Frieze offers a standalone Medical Coding Certificate in 1.5 years. Reporting 28.6 percent attrition, the 34-credit diploma includes hands-on CPC prep in courses like Patient Data and clinical internships.

Annual Tuition: $2,973

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at the College of the Mainland here.

21. Coahoma Community College

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Declared America’s #2 cheapest HBCU by Best Value Schools, Coahoma Community College is a public, historically Black career institute opened in 1924 that’s training 2,999 Tigers at its 99-acre Mississippi Delta campus. The Allied Health Training Center in Clarksdale launched an A.A.S. in Medical Billing and Coding Technology for initial RHIT certification. Overseen by Prof. Beverly Overton, the 61-credit, applied program integrates 270 work hours into courses like Mechanics of Communication.

Annual Tuition: $2,803

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Coahoma Community College here.

22. Atlanta Technical College

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Established as Smith-Hughes Vocational School in 1967, Atlanta Technical College is now America’s third fastest-growing campus according to Community College Week with 4,859 students in Forbes’ ninth best city. The Division of Health & Public Safety hosts a CAHIIM-accredited Health Information Management Coding Diploma for 64-week completion. Headed by Prof. Aletta Spence, the 52-credit plan requires 3.0 GPAs throughout cheap courses from Basic Psychology to Revenue Cycle Management.

Annual Tuition: $2,816

23. Arkansas State University-Mountain Home

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Adjacent to Baxter Regional Medical Center, Arkansas State University-Mountain Home is a public, open-admission school opened in 1995 that’s budgeting $10.7 million to instruct 1,500 Trailblazers in America’s 80th best associate degrees on Niche. The Health Sciences Division delivers a Technical Certificate in Professional Medical Coding with ICD-10 books included. Coordinated by Prof. Sarah Smith, the 32-credit program strengthens medical document interpretation with optional Fran Coulter Honors.

Annual Tuition: $2,832

24. Highland Community College

Ranked 177th nationally for value by WalletHub, Highland Community College is a public, two-year Kansas institution and 2017 PTK International Hallmark Award winner that’s teaching 3,300 Scotties at 33 HLC-accredited locations. The Health Sciences Center utilizes Moodle for its Online A.A.S. in Medical Coding that only costs $3,057 twice. Directed by Prof. Elizabeth Wingo, the 64-credit, two-year program meets CCA competencies in courses like Pharmacology and virtual practica.

Annual Tuition: $3,057

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Highland Community College here.

25. Panola College

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Occupying a 135-acre East Texas campus in Carthage, Panola College has placed in the Center for Digital Education’s top 10 five times as a public, two-year Ed2Go member serving 2,584 Ponies with 100 percent admission. The Health Sciences Department headed by Prof. Kelly Reed-Hirsch reports average income of $35,000 for Medical Coding Technician Certificate graduates. Taking 32 weeks, this 36-credit, TSI-waived program has blended Canvas courses like Ambulatory Coding with CCA review.

Annual Tuition: $3,120

Learn more about the Most Affordable Medical Coding and Billing Training Schools at Panola College here.

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Putting enough pennies together to attend top medical coding schools can sometimes be a challenge. CNBC reported that today’s college tuition prices are up 163 percent from 30 years ago in 1988. The College Board found that public, two-year institutions have the most affordable average at $3,570 per year. However, picking four-year universities like Purdue Global, Indiana, Alaska Southeast, Grantham, and Herzing for your medical coding training will bring up median costs of $9,970 to $34,740. That’s even before certification expenses, such as the $300 AAPC professional exam, become due. Scholarships are great financial aid tools that bequeath non-repayable money to reduce your out-of-pocket price. Let’s look into nine of the best scholarships for medical coding programs.

AHIMA Foundation Veteran’s Scholarship

Open July 1st to September 30th each year, the Veteran’s Scholarship from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Foundation suits returning, honorably discharged heroes. The $1,000 award is reserved for former active-duty Army, Navy, Air Force, Maine Corps, Coast Guard, and National Guard members or their spouses who seek associate HIT programs, including medical coding. Please submit two letters of support, DD214 forms, verification of enrollment in 6+ college credits, and a maximum 400-word goals essay.

Health Record Services Endowed Scholarship

Founded by President Wendy Copland-Gould, RHIA, in 2018, the Health Record Services Endowed Scholarship will gift $1,000 on November 30th annually to single working mothers who are pursuing associate-level study in medical coding or health information technology. Eligibility criteria requires having at least one dependent under age 18, entering a CAHIIM-accredited college, taking six or more credits, and holding cumulative GPAs above 3.5. Work experience, leadership skills, life challenges, essay clarity, and dedication to the HIM profession are evaluated.

ASAHP Scholarship of Excellence

Located in Washington, DC, since 1967, the Association of Schools of Allied Health Professions (ASAHP) under president Susan Hanrahan is conveying the $1,000 Scholarship of Excellence to entry-level healthcare, including medical coding, majors. Qualified nominees need to have finished one term at one of the 116 member colleges, such as Drexel University, Indiana University, University of Utah, and Bowling Green State University. Four copies of the application, endorsement letter, résumé, and 200-word typewritten personal essay must arrive by June 11th.

Steve Lieber Innovator Scholarship

Worth $5,000, the Steve Lieber Innovator Scholarship is granted by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society to current HIMSS members in good standing at accredited undergrad schools of health. Medical coding students entering by September 25th must outline an original idea for using digital technology to revolutionize patient records acquisition. Linked to Smart City Networks, the program requires a 1,000-word project description, two letters of reference, and agreement to attend the HIMSS Annual Conference.

Sarah Bush Lincoln Volunteer Guild Scholarship

Accredited by The Joint Commission, the 129-bed Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center launched the Volunteer Guild Scholarship in 1979 to support the selfless, unpaid service of regional caretakers. This $1,000 prize helps SBL members living in a 19-county area of Illinois afford finishing medical-related community college or university programs with GPAs of 3.5 or greater. Don’t miss the April 15th deadline for submitting the work history, educational budget, one-page personal profile, official transcript, proof of enrollment, and two current references.

Horatio Alger Career & Technical Scholarship

Named for the 1868 Ragged Dick author of the Gilded Age, the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans Inc. grants the $2,500 Career & Technical Scholarship to 1,020 U.S. high school graduates or GED holders each year. It’s ideal for individuals under age 30 who’ve overcome hardship and great financial need to attend vocational programs, especially medical coding, at two-year, nonprofit colleges. By June 15th, create an online ID for submitting the adversity statement, support form, transcript, tax return copies, and citizenship proof.

Richard and Louise Varco Scholarship Fund

Managed by Scholarship America, the Richard and Louise Varco Scholarship Fund carries on the St. Paul couple’s legacy by presenting up to $5,000 to high school seniors or displaced workers returning to school. Opening December 15th, the contest could help medical coding majors enrolling full-time at accredited two-year institutions, such as Anoka Technical College or Normandale Community College, in Minnesota with at least a “B-” average. The SPMCF application needs a transcript, personal statement of intent, reference form, and proof of financial need.

OMACCS Workforce Tuition Scholarships

Totaling $40,000 each year, the Ohio-Michigan Association of Career Colleges and Schools (OMACCS) Workforce Tuition Scholarships offer $600 to five certificate, $1,200 to 10 diploma, or $2,500 to 10 degree students in vocational study. Medical coding qualifies if majors live in these Midwest states, enroll at least half-time, have unmet funding, and apply before April 6th. Applications are incomplete without high school attendance records, LEADS! nomination forms, transcripts, two recommendations, and 250-word written merit statements.

George & Lucille Cushnie Scholarship Fund

Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Hawaii Community Foundation (HCF) says aloha to $4.5 million in annual financial aid, including the George & Lucille Cushnie Scholarship Fund that caters to healthcare professionals like medical coders. The $1,000 award picks Big Island residents with financial need and minimum 2.7 GPAs who are enrolling in medical curricula full-time at two- or four-year nonprofits. Log into your account before January 31st to send the transcript, Student Aid Report, one recommendation, and 900-word personal statement.

Community college graduates face average debt of $11,384 in the Class of 2018. To avoid over-borrowing loans, it’s important to apply for all types of federal, state, and college aid. The FAFSA application can be submitted until June 30th annually for Federal Pell and FSEOG Grant funds. Look for local grants like the New York Tuition Assistance Program and Florida Resident Access Program. Paychecks twice monthly are possible with Federal Work-Study jobs on campus too. Building up a comprehensive financial assistance package with these and other medical coding scholarships, such as the Coding with Confidence Scholarship, AAPC Hardship Scholarship, Robert D. Kruse Memorial Scholarship, Scott W. Hulstein Scholarship, and Kathleen A. Frawley Scholarship, will help save big.

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Many allied health professionals are bucking the “traditional” trend by attending remote medical coding and billing training programs that use Web-based classrooms to practice. According to Babson’s 2017 Digital Education State Almanac, 29.7 percent of the 20.92 million U.S. college students are taking at least one course online. Instead of flooding big lecture halls, adults increasingly choose to harness 21st-century technologies for mastering HIT procedural systems at home. EdTech Magazine reported that 60 percent of remote learners work full-time, 70 percent are female, and 80 percent live within their school’s 100-mile radius. Online training is an attractive offer for good work-life balance, but some question whether it’s really effective. Let’s evaluate whether remote medical coding and billing programs are as good as traditional face-to-face programs for achieving CPC or CCS certification.

Quality of Remote Medical Coding and Billing Training

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Online colleges with physical campuses will typically have the same faculty deliver an identical medical coding and billing training curriculum to remote students. The U.S. Department of Education made the monumental move to declare online learning as effectual as traditional instruction in 2010. One Inside Higher Ed survey found that 95 percent of survey takers believed online classes are equivalent or superior. Though three-fourths of employers respect distance education, many university transcripts won’t even distinguish between online and traditional programs. However, please note that asynchronous remote learning isn’t right for everyone. The Brookings Institution discovered that online course grades drop an average 0.33 points relative to face-to-face ones.

Unique Benefits of Medical Coding and Billing Online Programs

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Remote medical coding and billing training can be “better” than traditional degrees in numerous ways because they’re extremely flexible. Online courses have 24/7/365 access to fit health care preparation into work and childrearing schedules anytime as long as deadlines are met. The Huffington Post stated that revolutionizing remote study builds computer-savvy tech skills, which HIT workers need, using everything from databases to blogs and discussion boards. Students can apply to online medical coding and billing certificates not available in their geographic location to increase admission chances. Studying remotely can also make financial sense to cut campus fees, room and board, and transportation off the College Board‘s mean community college cost of $3,440 per year.

Potential Cons to Studying Medical Coding and Billing Remotely

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Skipping campus commutes for online medical coding and billing training can create some troubles though. For example, eLearn Magazine warned that many virtual classrooms lack the ability to foster face-to-face communication skills unless apps like Skype are used live. Online learners need discipline to avoid falling behind coursework in self-paced modules without faculty supervision. Making one’s home a classroom can add unlikely distractions, such as barking pets and crying children. Web technology is generally a friend, but it can become foe when a Wi-Fi connection is lost and assignments can’t be uploaded. Remote medical coding and billing training programs also often still require hand-on practicum, which can be tough to arrange when living out of state.

Several steps can be made to ensure remote medical coding and billing training is as equivalent to traditional on-campus classes as possible. Accreditation is a key value indicator that ensures schools’ compliance with third-party review standards. Many of the best coding degrees are delivered by the 160 online colleges with CAHIIM accreditation or AHIMA recognition. The U.S. News & World Report suggests asking academic officials if the curriculum’s credits are transferrable to judge eminence. Check with the Online Learning Consortium to determine whether the college is endorsed by its Quality Scorecard Report. Invest some time questioning the institution’s course policies, resources, and student testimonials too. Some great remote medical coding and billing training places include Charter Oak State College, Dakota State University, Great Basin College, Weber State University, Moraine Park Technical College, Fisher College Boston, and Collin County Community College.

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The 20 Best From Home Top Medical Coding Schools and Programs

Medical billing and coding technicians are just those people. They are the front office and back office practitioners specializing in the field of healthcare informatics and administration as well as a number of other duties. From the administration of managed care and patient records to data coding of records for processing across entire networks of healthcare providers, qualified and experienced medical billing and coding technicians are highly trained and highly sought. Since the enactment of the U.S. Affordable Care Act, the expansion of the healthcare sector has led to new employment opportunities for medical coding professionals. The national outlook for clinical and hospital institutions indicates that the ageing patient population is expected to increase. Add the global shortage in licensed nurses and other practitioners, and the impact on medical office administration is clear. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, by 2022, the rate of growth for medical billing coding technicians will be approximately 22%. Graduates of medical billing and coding schools work within a variety of settings including in hospitals, doctor’s offices, nursing and residential care facilities, and even public health and government agencies and may earn up to $34,160 or more per year.

To enter the field of medical billing and coding, candidates must enrol in an accredited certificate, associate degree or bachelor degree Medical Billing and Coding program. Most certificate and associate degree programs are one to two years in length. For those who wish to continue their education, many go on to earn bachelor degrees in healthcare administration fields. A number of medical billing and coding programs are offered by private and public colleges, non-degree granting career training institutions, and vocational schools. Selecting the program which best suits your academic needs and career goals is often not an easy process. To help in maximizing your training experience while ensuring the program you choose is the best for you and your career goals, here is a list of the 10 Best Online Medical Coding Programs. Participating in any of the programs listed here ensures you receive quality education from an accredited, reputable organization and opens the door to exciting career opportunities within the dynamic, fast evolving healthcare industry.

1. Kaplan University

Founded in Iowa in the late 1930s, Kaplan University has grown to a nationwide higher education institution with both traditional onsite and online campuses. The school offers a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate that trains healthcare professionals in the administration of patient records. Participation within Kaplan’s program provides a well rounded understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, medical terminology, medical office management, and data information processing as well as hands on, real world experience through an externship program. Completion of the certificate program at Kaplan gives individuals the opportunity to go on to attain an Associate degree, Bachelor degree or Master degree in healthcare administration, healthcare informatics, or healthcare management or gain employment as qualified professionals. All programs at Kaplan University are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The University is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). Tuition cost per unit is an affordable $371.

For more about Kaplan’s online medical coding programs, go here

2. Penn Foster College

Penn Foster is a great choice for future medical billers and coders. As the first distance learning school in the United States established in 1890, this college has trained more than 13,000,000 since the founding. Offerings include undergraduate Certificate, Associate degree, Bachelor degree programs in a number of subjects, including Medical Billing and Coding. What makes Penn Foster’s Medical Billing and Coding program unique is that it conforms to ICD-9 and ICD-10 coding standards. This, in turn, prepare students for hospital institutions and AHIMA certification following graduation and opens pathways to many career opportunities. Accreditation by the Distance Education and Training Council and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and five other accrediting bodies ensure the highest quality instruction. Tuition ranging from $678 – $798 ensures affordability. And a diverse number of online programs ensures convenience. All of this and more makes Penn Foster a great choice for online education.

For more about Penn Foster College’s online medical coding programs, go here

3. Everett Community College

Everett Community College is a seven division learning institution located in Snohomish County, Washington. A long history of catering to the educational needs of a diverse student body combined with affordable, accessible, and convenient learning environments gives students a well-rounded experience. Since it’s early beginnings within a converted elementary school in 1941, Everett has expanded to provide a number of associate degree and certificates programs within thirty fields through both on-campus and online programs. It’s unique nine-month, online Medical Coding Program includes a comprehensive program of courses like Healthcare Vocabulary, Legal Compliance, Healthcare Reimbursement, Coding with ICD-10-CM/PCS (PR), Advanced Coding with ICD-10-CM/PCS, Basics of Pharmacology, Principals of Procedural Coding (PR), Health Information Management, and Medical Coding Practicum. This online program prepares students for the American Health and Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Successful completion of both the training and examinations results in a Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Professional Coder (CPC) designation required for long-term employment and career success. Since this and all programs offered through Everett are accredited by the Washington State Board of Community and Technical Colleges, the training and experiences offered at Everett are guaranteed to be worthwhile. Contact the school for information about tuition.

For more about Everett Community College’s online medical coding programs, go here

4. Drexel University

Drexel University, first established in 1891 in Philadelphia, is ranked as one of “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S.News & World Report for programs offered by the private university on its traditional and distance learning campuses. The University’s Certificate in Medical Billing and Coding is an accredited, online, and a fast-paced six-course certificate program. Students learn the three (3) main coding scripts: 1) CPT, 2) HCPCS, and 3) ICD-9-CM. All of this combined gives students the ability to advance to the ICD-10 in preparation for the American Medical Billing Association (AMBA) exam qualifying trainees to become a Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS); as well as sitting for the American Academy of Professional Coder’s (AAPC), American Health Information Management Association’s (CCS or CCS-P), and Certified Professional Coder’s (CPC or CPC-H) board exams. Drexel is accredited by the Middle States Association Commission on Higher Education, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), National Accrediting Agency for the Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS). Tuition is $707 per credit.

For more about Drexel University’s online medical coding programs, go here

5. Carrington College

Founded as part of Apollo College in 1976, the Phoenix, AZ based Carrington College is a nationally accredited institution providing Certificate or Associate degree in Medical Billing and Coding training to students in the healthcare sector. This college has eleven campus locations across the Western United States as well as online programs geared toward busy individuals seeking to expand their education and advance their careers. Carrington offers students training in the different aspects of healthcare information technology, including healthcare management information systems (HMIS) support of medical records administered by medical billing and coding specialists. Tuition and fees vary by program and location. Active duty service personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces may be eligible for special tuition rates. The College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

For more about Carrington College’s online medical coding programs, go here

6. Herzing University

Herzing University was established in 1965 to train students in a range of fields, including dynamic programs in medical billing and coding. The University offers 50 different Associate degree, Bachelor degree, and Master degree options in Business, Design, Healthcare, Public Safety, and Technology. Internship opportunities allow students to practice skills learned in the classroom in a professional setting so that they are prepared to enter or advance in their chosen field. Herzing University courses enable students to study according to their own schedule in an asynchronous environment. Contact for tuition information. Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and North Central Association (NCA).

For more about Herzing University’s online medical coding programs, go here

7. DeVry University

DeVry University and DeVry Institute of Technology are both divisions of DeVry Education Group. The for-profit higher education institution was established in 1931. Students interested in medical coding and billing may participate in the University’s online associate degree in Health Information Technology program. This program was designed to train students in medical billing and coding in an asynchronous, online setting. The comprehensive education in healthcare information technology offered by DeVry is distinct in that it covers IT infrastructure and healthcare management information systems used in medical operations; as well as the technical applications involved in medical billing and coding. Popular with professionals working in the healthcare management and technology sector. DeVry’s course programs prepare students with entry-level competencies as provided for by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

For more about Devry University’s online medical coding programs, go here

8. Grantham University

Founded in 1951, Grantham University offers special assistance to returning veterans enrolled in one of the University’s thirty eight accredited, online Certificate, Associate degree, Bachelor degrees, and Master degree programs. The University’s degree programs are designed to advance the professional interests of students working in the healthcare field. Medical billing and coding curricula offered through the University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health is available in online format. The breadth of courses offered in the range of certificate and degree programs within the College of Nursing, enable students to tailor their training to fulfil criteria for preparation of knowledge for credentialing exams. The online Associate degree in Medical Billing and Coding on Grantham University’s distance campus trains students for taking the ICD-9 and ICD-10 exams. The latter will be required beginning October 2014. The College’s focus on healthcare informatics for billing and coding makes the program a robust curricula for healthcare administration education. Students graduate with a thorough education in healthcare informatics, as well as knowledge about the application of those skills in clinical, hospital, insurance company, and private practice environments. Grantham University is accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council. Undergraduate Tuition is $265 per credit hour with Graduate Tuition at $325 per credit hour.

For more about Grantham University’s online medical coding programs, go here

9. Ultimate Medical Academy

Ultimate Medical Academy, a leader in the medical billing and coding training field, offers an associate degree and diploma program in one of the most dynamic and advanced programs available online. Both Ultimate Medical Academy programs train students for eligibility in application to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) licensure exam. The Diploma program in Medical Billing and Coding can be completed in as little as 10 months. The Associate degree program is affordable and requires 18 to 24 months until completion. During the course of study, students are introduced to the fundamental principles of healthcare informatics, coding structure used in medical operations and recording keeping, and other essential fundamentals of the field of medical billing and coding. When studying for a Medical Billing and Coding diploma or associate degree, students may elect to train on the Academy’s onsite campuses at Clearwater, Florida, or through the online campus. Ultimate Medical Academy also provides ongoing professional employment search assistance to Academy graduates to help them establish long term and lasting careers. Ultimate Medical Academy is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities (APSCU), and the National Healthcare Association (NHA).

For more about Ultimate Medical Academy’s online medical and billing programs, go here

Related Links

Top 10 Medical Billing and Coding Schools
15 Best Remote Medical Coding Training Programs Online
10 Best Online Health Informatics/Health Information Management Degree Programs

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Work from home medical billing and coding jobs can be the biggest draw to healthcare IT training for adults seeking great work-life balance. Global Workplace Analytics reports that the number of telecommuters has risen by 115 percent to 3.7 million since 2005. Nearly 50 percent of U.S. labor is now suitable for working at home at least half time! That’s especially apparent in healthcare where secured patient records can be sent digitally to medical coders and billers’ own homes. Working remotely can be beneficial for setting one’s own schedules, saving money on childcare, avoiding office politics, wearing comfortable wardrobe, and reducing stress along with pollution. Therefore, we’ve surveyed the work from home openings at top employers like Maxim Health, Aviacode, SourceMed, and Robert Half to outline the four most important qualifications for coders and billers.

Medical Coding and Billing Education

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Typing up applications for healthcare work from home jobs won’t be very successful with only a high school diploma or GED. Attending a community college or private school for medical coding and billing training is virtually required today. Employers will expect new hires to have spent six to 18 months in a certificate program or two to three years for an associate degree. Some may even require that one’s education be accredited by the CAHIIM for high-quality informatics expertise. Studying medical billing and coding will generally involve six to 20 courses, such as Pathology, Electronic Medical Records, Body Systems, and Insurance Reimbursement. Picking schools with real-world practicum and/or virtual labs is suggested to jumpstart experience. Approved coding programs are usually sufficient to start telecommuting, but some outliers might request a B.S. in Health Information Technology.

Advanced Knowledge of HIT Procedures

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In 2017, Medical Billing Advocates of America reported a high error rate of 80 percent that costs 7 million U.S. citizens $1,300 more on average! To fix inaccuracy problems, healthcare companies are seeking coding and billing staff with advanced knowledge of HIT operations. Work from home jobs will require being fluent in the classification codes used to file confidential records. Considering the Becker’s Hospital Review counted 71,924 procedural and 69,823 diagnosis codes in the ICD-10 system, this necessitates plenty of training. Medical billers and coders telecommuting will need basic clinical proficiency to know terminology like dysphasia from dysphagia. Proficiency of high-tech HIT software, including NueMD and Encoder Pro, is expected. Employers also seek work from home candidates with communication skills, ambition, moral integrity, focus, and good critical judgment.

AHIMA or AAPC Professional Certification

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Seeing a medical coding and billing worker’s certification can help convince employers that they’re trained to function without in-office supervision. The majority of work from home opportunities will rely on candidates’ completion of one of two hallmark credentials. First, the American Health Information Management Association has the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) designation. Eligibility requires a postsecondary certificate or two years of coding-related experience. Hopeful coders submit a $75 application fee to take the 97-question, four-hour exam at Pearson VUE testing centers. Second, the American Association of Professional Coders offers the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB) titles. Applicants with college training need to score at least 70 percent on the 150-question, five-hour exam that currently costs members $300.

Two or More Years of Coding/Billing Experience

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Healthcare facilities and staffing agencies generally won’t feel comfortable handing out independent, work from home positions to newbies. Most telecommuting jobs for medical billers and coders will stipulate having at least 24 months of relevant résumé experience first. The U.S. Department of Labor shows that HIT operations will stimulate 27,800 new jobs by 2026 for swift 13 percent growth, so one’s job search won’t be long. The AAPC Jobs Board makes finding experience-building healthcare employment simple by keyword or zip code. Updating LinkedIn profiles, job shadowing, joining associations like the Healthcare Business Management Association, and networking at the AMBA National Conference or other events can get feet in doors. Also don’t underestimate the power of medical coding and billing internship programs, such as Project Extern with 200+ approved sites.

Now’s an excellent time to begin training for work from home jobs to make certain patient charts are factually coded for smooth insurance claim processes. Some great schools offering certificates on-site or online include Cape Cod Community College, Joliet Junior College, Phoenix College, Jackson College, St. Catherine University, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and Delaware County Community College. With more advanced training, work from home medical billing and coding jobs could even lead to health IT careers like cancer registrar, revenue cycle specialist, nurse informaticist, health data analyst, and records technician.

Related Links

The 20 Best From Home Top Medical Coding Schools And Programs

Completing the top medical coding and billing programs online is an inexpensive move with tremendous salary return on investment (or ROI). According to Money magazine, community college remains the cheapest education route with annual mean tuition of $3,520. Two-year associate degrees in medical coding and billing only cost $7,040 on average, less than nine months at most senior universities. Plus, many students qualify for up to $2,500 from the American Opportunity Tax Credit to cover costs. Considering you’ll have little debt, medical coding and billing careers lead to comfortable salaries above the 2016 Census median personal income of $31,099. Let’s dig into specific numbers to discover what you can earn post-graduation as a medical coder or biller.

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Average Earnings in Medical Coding and Billing

Based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2016 report, it’s determined that the median yearly wage for medical coding and billing professionals is $38,040. The 200,140 U.S. health informatics jobs garnered pay from $12.05 to $30.21 per hour. The bottom 10th percentile earns $25,070 per year, while the top 10th percentile snags $62,840 annually. PayScale showed that medical coding and billing specialists earned bonuses of $184 to $5,135 this year for total pay of $24,562 to $50,508.

Medical coding and billing staff with AAPC membership report a mean salary of $49,872. Non-certified members make $39,956 and certified members bring home $52,588 on average. Entry-level medical coding and billing jobs unsurprisingly earn the lowest average at $35,906. Yet, workers with 30+ years of experience make a typical salary of $67,162. Sixty percent of AAPC survey respondents were satisfied with their job and only 12.3 percent sought better pay.

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Salary Expectations by Medical Coding and Billing Workplace

How much you earn after the best medical coding and billing programs online will fluctuate based on your job placement. Most health information technicians (68,820) work in general medical and surgical hospitals for yearly average earnings of $44,160. Medical coding and billing jobs in physician offices make below average at $35,490. On the other hand, those working for specialty hospitals, government agencies, and insurance carriers claim the highest mean salaries at $44,370, $47,520, and $54,620 respectively.

Generally, health care facilities that employ bigger workforces will compensate better. Certified medical coding and billing graduates working in single-specialty practices with one to 10 doctors earn $45,722 on average. Mean health informatics salaries rise to $47,773 at outpatient care centers, $49,452 at large medical groups, and $51,389 at multi-group health systems. Inpatient facilities are also hiring many medical coders and billers for 5.4 percent growth since 2015.

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Top-Paying Regions for Medical Coding and Billing Staff

Regional demographics play a pivotal role in determining salaries for medical coding and billing job offers. According to the AAPC 2016 Salary Survey, certified members in the Mid-Atlantic saw a 2.9 percent salary increase to $53,757. Only the Pacific Region pays better with a mean wage of $57,005. Other pay averages include $51,310 in the Mountain States, $48,213 in the Midwest, $49,767 in the Southeast, and $53,504 in New England. Certified medical coders and billers earn the least in the East South-Central Region for $47,587 on average.

Closer looks into income diversity by location show that the best-paid medical coding and billing jobs are in New Jersey for a median wage of $60,000 per year. The BLS crowns Alaska, California, Maryland, and Colorado as runner-ups with mean salaries of $56,920, $48,840, $48,730, and $48,730 respectively on the BLS website. The Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale Metro employs the most medical coders and billers (5,790) for average pay of $47,330. However, New Jersey’s Newark Metro provides the highest mean wage of $63,450.

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Pay Potential for Different Medical Coding and Billing Jobs

Medical coding and billing has an attractive job outlook that’s expected to create 27,800 new positions by 2026 for faster-than-average growth of 13 percent. That’s partly because the Health IT Dashboard found that 96 percent of hospitals eligible for Medicare and Medicaid have adopted electronic health records (EHRs). Combine this with the fact that the United States’ number of senior citizens will double to 98 million by 2060 and you’ve got a red-hot medical sector. Here are income expectations for several jobs under the medical coding and billing umbrella.

• Inpatient or Outpatient Coder – Using ICD-10 and CPT codes, inpatient or outpatient coders translate complex patient documents for billing with mean pay of $39,953.

• Medical Billing Specialist – Medical billing specialists are compensated $39,055 on average for using coded charts to create patient invoices and insurance claims.

• Medical Scribe – For a mean annual wage of $32,307, medical scribes act as physician’s personal assistants to organize clinical patient data into EHRs during treatment.

• Coding Compliance Specialist – Coding compliance specialists are CPCs who audit medical records to check quality standards for a median wage of $58,192.

• Cancer Registrar – For $41,431 on average, cancer registrars capture essential medical history, diagnosis, and treatment data in EHRs for every oncology patient.

• Medical Records Coding Manager – With 5+ years of experience, medical records coding managers make mean salaries of $66,512 for supervising coders.

• Enrollment & Billing Supervisor – Enrollment & billing supervisors are experienced medical staff who oversee staff responsible for processing claims at $62,958 per year.

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Increasing Your Medical Coding and Billing Career Profits

Although wages enlarge naturally with years of experience, there are steps medical coding and billing program graduates can take to spark better revenue. One of the best ways to rack up dollar signs is earning more credentials. One AAPC credential garners a mean salary of $52,605, but three certifications pay off with $66,999. The Certified Documentation Expert Outpatient (CDEO) program gifts the biggest annual earnings at $83,654. Certified Professional Compliance Officers (CPCO) also snare a profitable mean wage of $75,680.

Advancing your education is another smart choice to bolster your income. Coders and billers can attend CAHIIM-accredited bachelor’s degrees to qualify for the RHIA exam that unlocks a median salary of $88,580. Some become full-time community college professors for average pay at $72,470. If you’re tech-saavy, you could pursue training in health IT management and software development for mean wages of $111,500 and $100,690 respectively. Transferring credits from the best medical coding and billing programs online into bachelor’s education may even open HIT executive jobs worth $127,500.

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Remote medical coding training programs are short-term, Web-based educational course sequences where students transform into health documentation specialists. These online programs use platforms like Canvas, Blackboard, and Moodle to teach the fundamentals of coding patient records at a distance. Medical coding training helps remote learners master the CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS methods used to translate complex clinical procedures into ciphers recognized by billers. Registering for remote medical coding training lets adults easily prepare for AAPC credentials, including Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). Online medical coder programs foster virtual discussions on topics like diagnostic coding and pathophysiology to enter today’s healthcare market where job growth will surpass 21 percent through 2020.

Types of Remote Medical Coding Training Programs

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Most remote medical coding training programs will confer a postsecondary certificate in as little as three months after a high school diploma or GED. Accredited online medical coding certificates cover 18 to 42 credits of career-specific basics for entry-level practice without a general education core. Medical coding associate degrees are the next step up for perfecting a wider range of healthcare skills. Requiring 60 to 75 credits, these two-year, full-time remote training programs mix academic subjects like English with career and virtual coding practicum courses. Although rarer, some online degrees can award a Bachelor of Science in Heath Information Management for coders. This four-year, 120-credit remote option would nurture the administrative capabilities for clinical leadership with the esteemed RHIA title.

Remote Medical Coding Training Program Examples

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Eighty percent of today’s coders have attended community colleges or universities for specialized healthcare training. Here are great examples of medical coding programs that are conveniently available in remote formats.

• Lone Star College Harris – Medical Coding Certificate
• Lanier Technical College – Medical Coding Specialist Certificate
• Grantham University – Associate of Applied Science in Medical Coding and Billing
• Central Maine Community College – Medical Coding and Electronic Health Records A.A.S.
• University of Mississippi – B.S. in Health Informatics and Information Management

Benefits of Going Remote for Medical Coding Training

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Logging into remote medical coding training programs can happen anytime 24/7 to fit online courses into your off hours. You’ll waste less time and money than commuting to a physical campus, instead accessing digital textbooks, recorded lectures, and Web conferences. Computer-based medical terminology quizzes will provide rapid online feedback for evaluating your progress without grading time. Online medical coding degrees give you the tech skills and self-discipline needed for future remote coding jobs. Healthcare employers usually won’t view remote medical coding training programs as inferior, so your credits will be recognized for job promotions. If your city doesn’t have medical coding training, remote schools also give you more geographic freedom to reach your aspirations.

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The 15 Best Remote Medical Coding and Training Programs Online