Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs
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As the healthcare industry converts to digital records, professionals skilled in medical billing and coding are in high demand. An online associate degree in medical billing and coding is one possible pathway to this rewarding career.
This guide will explore the ins and outs of these programs, the jobs you can pursue after graduation, and how to decide whether this path is right for you.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Online Associate in Medical Billing and Coding Programs
Central Maine Community College
Auburn, ME- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,880
- Out-of-state$5,760
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,115
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment74%
- AccreditationYes
Northland Community and Technical College
- Thief River Falls, MN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,176
- Out-of-state$5,176
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,962
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College
- Johnstown, PA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,540
- Out-of-state$9,960
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,456
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment36%
- AccreditationYes
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$19,808
- Out-of-state$19,808
- In-State$27,162
- Out-of-state$27,162
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled20,330
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Cowley County Community College
- Arkansas City, KS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,040
- Out-of-state$3,480
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,475
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Northwest Technical College
- Bemidji, MN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,415
- Out-of-state$5,415
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate43%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled825
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment72%
- AccreditationYes
5 Key Things Medical Billers and Coders Do
Medical billers and coders translate patient information and healthcare services into standardized codes, which are then used to generate bills to make accurate and timely reimbursements from insurance companies.
Accurate coding protects patients from incorrect billing, helps healthcare providers receive the necessary compensation to continue offering quality care, and keeps track of their medical records.
Key roles and responsibilities include:
- Reviewing patient records: Reviewing patient records, including physician’s notes, lab results, and radiology reports, to gather all necessary details for coding.
- Assigning accurate codes: Selecting and assigning appropriate codes from standardized coding systems like ICD (International Classification of Diseases), CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), and HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System) to diagnoses, procedures, and services documented in the patient records.
- Ensuring accuracy: Verifying the accuracy of the codes to avoid errors that could lead to claim denials or incorrect patient records. This step is crucial for compliance with healthcare regulations and for preventing financial and legal issues for healthcare providers.
- Data entry: Entering assigned codes into medical records and billing systems so that healthcare providers receive proper reimbursement and patients’ medical records are accurate.
- Supporting healthcare operations: Checking for accurate and standardized documentation for efficiency in billing, reducing administrative costs, minimizing errors and fraud, and enhancing patient care and satisfaction. They also provide reliable data for healthcare research and policy making.
Medical Billing and Coding Associate vs. Certificate: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing between a medical billing and coding certificate and an associate degree, several factors come into play:
Salary
An associate degree provides a more comprehensive education and opens doors to higher-level roles and potentially higher salaries. Medical coders with an associate degree can earn more than those with just a certificate, with average salaries ranging from $46,660 to over $73,000 annually, depending on experience and additional certifications.
Cost
The cost of an associate degree program can vary widely, with tuition costs generally ranging from around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the institution and specific program. Factors that can influence these costs include the type of school, the duration of the program, and additional fees such as textbooks, lab fees, and certification exam fees.
Program Length
An associate degree in medical billing and coding usually takes about 18 months to two years to complete, depending on whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.
On the other hand, a certificate program can be completed in less than a year, making it a quick route to enter the field. However, the depth of study and the level of expertise gained can vary between the two programs.
Courses
Associate degree programs often offer a broader curriculum, encompassing not only specialized medical billing and coding courses but also general education classes in subjects like English, math, and social sciences. These programs provide a more comprehensive education, covering advanced topics like healthcare law, ethics, and data management.
In contrast, certificate programs are more narrowly focused on the fundamental skills required for entry-level positions in medical billing and coding.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students pursuing an online associate degree in medical billing and coding have several financial aid options available to them, including federal financial aid, state aid, scholarships, and grants. Federal financial aid can be accessed by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which may offer grants, loans, and work-study programs.
While scholarships are also available for certificate programs, the variety and amount might not be as extensive as those available for degree programs.
Training
Both associate degree and certificate programs provide practical training and hands-on experience in key areas of medical billing and coding. Students learn essential topics such as medical terminology, ICD-10 and CPT coding systems, healthcare regulations, insurance processes, and patient privacy.
Associate degree programs often provide more comprehensive training and hands-on experience, making graduates more competitive in the job market.
Credit Transfers
When planning to transfer credits from previous coursework or from a certificate program to an associate degree program, it’s essential to check the transfer policies of the prospective school.
Schools usually require a grade of ‘C’ or better for courses to be eligible for transfer. Keep in mind that accepting transfer credits is at the discretion of the receiving institution, and not all credits may be transferable.
Career Benefits
Though both an associate degree and a certificate in medical billing and coding can open the door to various career opportunities in healthcare, an associate degree often provides a wider range of career options and greater potential for career advancement. Graduates with an associate degree are eligible for certifications like the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) after gaining some work experience, which can further enhance their career prospects.
A certificate can help you secure entry-level positions quickly, but may not offer the same career advancement opportunities.
Medical Billing and Coding Salary and Job Outlook
The job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals is promising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 9% growth rate from 2023 to 2033 for medical records specialists, which include medical coders.
Several factors are driving this demand, including an increasing aging population pushing the need for healthcare services, the transition from paper-based records to electronic health records (EHRs), and the ongoing complexity of healthcare regulations.
According to the BLS, the median salary for medical billers and coders was $48,780 for 2023, with the highest 10% earning $77,810 and the lowest 10% earning less than $35,080. The highest levels of employment ranged from major hospitals to smaller facilities such as outpatient care centers. Those who get a certificate may get a higher average salary of $54,000.
As of 2023, the top three paying locations were Washington, D.C. ($70,900), Washington State ($64,250), and California ($64,070). Keep in mind that areas with a higher cost of living will sometimes be reflected by a higher salary. States with the highest employment for medical billing and coding were California, Texas, and Florida.
| Median Salary | Typical Entry-Level Education | On-the-Job Training | Job Outlook (2023-2033) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yearly: $48,780 Hourly: $23.45 | Postsecondary certificate | None | 9% |
| State | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 270 | $34.09 | $70,900 |
| Washington | 4,710 | $30.89 | $64,250 |
| California | 20,000 | $30.80 | $64,070 |
| Connecticut | 1,570 | $30.41 | $63,250 |
| Maryland | 3,040 | $30.26 | $62,930 |
| Industry | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 47,530 | $27.69 | $57,600 |
| Offices of Physicians | 35,910 | $22.12 | $46,010 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | 18,930 | $28.39 | $59,060 |
| Nursing Care Facilities | 9,530 | $22.79 | $47,400 |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 7,840 | $27.17 | $56,510 |
| State | Employment | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 20,000 | $30.80 | $64,070 |
| Texas | 19,870 | $23.09 | $48,030 |
| Florida | 16,470 | $24.15 | $50,230 |
| Pennsylvania | 9,120 | $23.88 | $49,680 |
| New York | 7,860 | $29.09 | $60,510 |
What Jobs Can I Get With an Associate Degree in Medical Billing and Coding?
An associate degree in medical billing and coding can lead to a few different job opportunities. Here are some potential roles you could pursue, along with their average salaries:
| Job | Job Description | Median Annual Salary (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Records Coordinator | Compiles, processes, and maintains medical records of hospital and clinic patients | $46,000 |
| Medical Records Technician | Manages and organizes patient records to verify accuracy and accessibility | $46,000 |
| Health Information Clerk | Handles data entry tasks, monitors trends in audits and denials from payers, and analyzes clinical data | $43,000 |
| Medical Records Analyst | Organizes, evaluates, and maintains patient medical records to check for accuracy, completeness, and compliance | $46,000 |
| Health Information Technician | Organizes, manages, and disseminates patient health information within electronic health records (EHRs) | $62,990 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing and Coding Programs
Yes, it may be worth it if you are interested in a career in healthcare administration and technology. An associate degree program would provide comprehensive training in key areas like coding, electronic records, and billing, which can improve job prospects in various healthcare settings and serve as a stepping stone for further advancement.
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