In this post pandemic era where remote working and online study are far more commonplace than even 5 years ago there are a multitude of options available when it comes to finding a great online program to get started in your career in healthcare.
Below we have researched and summarized everything you need to know to find an online medical billing and coding program in 2024.
Online Program Options
There are many online courses and options available to prospective medical billing and coding students delivered by reputable organizations, and schools and colleges nationwide.
In choosing an online medical billing and coding program you will have a choice of 100% online or a hybrid/ blended model. In addition, you will need to decide if you would prefer to follow a self-paced program, or an instructor-led model.
Self-paced (asynchronous) models provide the most flexibility. You can listen to lectures and review class notes according to your own schedule.
On the other hand, instructor led (synchronous) models requires a timetabled attendance of virtual classes with a much higher level of engagement required. You will participate in class discussions, group work and presentations.
An entry level online class in medical billing and/or medical coding can be completed in as little as 4 months.
Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Training Programs 2024
If you are completely new to health information and medical billing and coding and have no experience working in the healthcare industry it is recommended that you take an entry level course in billing and/or coding before pursuing certification. Listed below are some of the top online programs offered by or approved by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
The AAPC CPC Exam Preparation Course
This course is suitable for beginners and offers a great introduction to medical coding, especially for those hoping to earn their Certified Professional Coder credential. The course is delivered online with a choice of self-paced or an instructor-led format. Prospective students are advised to have a good understanding of medical terminology before enrolling. The AAPC recommends their Fundamentals of Medicine course.
The course will take between 4 and 6 months to complete, depending on the pathway you choose, and costs over $2,600.
The CPC Exam Prep course is the most popular course offered by the AAPC. However, they do also have a CPB Exam Preparation Course (from $1,195) and a combined CPC & CPB Exam Preparation Course (from $3,245).
AHIMA Medical Coding and Reimbursement certificate
This online course is designed for those new to the healthcare industry and seeking an education in medical coding. The course will prepare candidates towards earning AHIMA certification. You will have 12 months to complete the course from date of registration.
AHIMA Professional Certificate Approval Program
AHIMA also has an approved list of accredited programs delivered by schools and institutions throughout the USA. These non-degree programs meet best practice standards of education and program delivery as defined by AHIMA and award a certificate of completion. See the table below for an up-to-date list of AHIMA approved programs.
| School | State | Delivery | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berkshire Community College | Massachusetts | Online | Program Page |
| Camden County Community College | New Jersey | Online | Program Page |
| Delaware County Community College | Delaware | Hybrid and Online | Program Page |
| Everett Community College | Washington | Online | Program Page |
| Great Falls College - Montana State University | Montana | Online | Program Page |
| Green River College | Washington | Hybrid | Program Page |
| Indian Hills Community College | Iowa | Online | Program Page |
| Loma Linda University | California | Online | Program Page |
| Miami Dade College | Florida | Hybrid | Program Page |
| CT State - Middlesex | Connecticut | Online | Program Page |
| Minnesota West Community and Technical College | Minnesota | Online | Program Page |
| Moraine Valley Community College | Illinois | - | Program Page |
| Nassau Community College | New York | - | Program Page |
| North Dakota State College of Science | North Dakota | Hybrid and Online | Program Page |
| Palm Beach State College | Florida | Online | Program Page |
| Phoenix College | Arizona | Hybrid and Online | Program Page |
| Pueblo Community College | Colorado | - | Program Page |
| Purdue Global | Indiana | - | Program Page |
| River Parishes Community College | Louisiana | Online | Program Page |
| Santa Barbara City College | California | Online | Program Page |
| Santa Fe College | Florida | Online | Program Page |
| Seminole State College | Florida | Online | Program Page |
| Shoreline Community College | Washington | Online | Program Page |
| South Suburban College | Illinois | - | Program Page |
| St Louis Community College | Missouri | Online | Program Page |
| Suny Westchester Community College | New York | Online | Program Page |
| Tulsa Community College | Oklahoma | On Campus | Program Page |
Online Billing and Coding Certifications
The two main certification bodies for medical billing and coding and the health information niche as a whole are the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
As mentioned above, both organizations offer fundamentals training in billing and coding for candidates with no previous experience. Upon completing your training you will be eligible to apply to sit a certification exam.
Detailed below are some of the most popular certifications available to medical billers and medical coders;
AAPC Certifications
Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
This option is one of the most popular professional certifications for medical coders and is particularly suited to those working or seeking work in a physician led setting. Exams can be taken online or in-person. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 4 hours. A pass rate of over 70% is required. The cost to take the exams start at $399.
Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
Similar to the CPC certification, the CPB exam consists of 135 multiple choice questions which can be taken online or in-person. The exam must be completed within 4 hours and requires a pass rate of 70%. The cost to take the exams starts at $399.
The AAPC also offer a dual CPC & CPB certification. For information on all certifications offered by the AAPC visit https://www.aapc.com/certifications/certifications-b
AHIMA Certifications
Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
The CCA certification tests for competency in medical coding across a variety of healthcare settings and scenarios. You will need a high school diploma and ideally have relevant work experience or have completed an AHIMA-approved coding program to be eligible to sit the CCA exam. The cost to take the exam starts at $199
Other popular certifications from AHIMA include Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Certified Coding Specialist – Physician-based. For more information on AHIMA certifications click here.
Pros and cons of online learning
Good time management, a sense of independence and good levels of self-motivation are all characteristics of students who excel in online learning. You will need to meet course deadlines while managing your other responsibilities, like work and family. Advantages to an online program include:
- Flexibility with your time and other commitments
- Convenience – no dealing with a commute or trying to find accommodation closer to campus.
- Cost-effectiveness – online teaching comes at a lower cost than in-person teaching.
Online learning uses mainly visual and auditory information and stimulation. If you are more a practical, present, hands-on learner and enjoy learning with more personal interaction from instructors and colleagues, you might do better studying in a campus-based program. Other possible drawbacks include:
- Distractions when learning from home – people, pets, phones. Online learning takes discipline.
- Limited interactions with peers.
Free Online Medical Billing and Coding Training
If you want to learn more about the basics of medical billing and coding before investing in a paid course then there are some great free classes available online.
Udemy: What is medical billing and coding?
This short 60 minute training provides an overview of day-to-day tasks of a medical biller and coder including the use of codes such as ICD-10-CM, CPT and HCPCS. Almost 90% of people who took this free training graded it as 4 star or greater.
Other free online courses worth exploring include:
To find out more about medical billing and coding in your state including campus based programs, salaries and employment click here.