Online Idaho Medical Billing & Coding Schools: Compare Programs
As an Idaho resident considering working in medical billing and coding in Idaho, an online program can be a great, flexible way to learn the skills you’ll need to start applying for jobs. Online medical billing and coding programs in Idaho can vary in length and qualifications earned, but all will prepare you for a dynamic career in healthcare. Read on to learn about different programs, and see which one might be right for you.
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An Inside Look: Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Idaho
You’ll want to look into different online medical billing and coding programs in Idaho before you start applying to any. Across the state, these programs vary in length, class offerings, tuition costs and financial aid opportunities, and other available resources for online students. Further, there are degree and pre-degree programs (where credits are designed to transfer easily), as well as stand-alone diplomas and certificates. Deciding which one is right for you will take some research, but below are a few high-quality online medical billing and coding programs in Idaho to give you an idea of what you might expect in a future program.
Medical Billing and Coding Professional Certificate — College of Western Idaho
The medical coding and billing professional program at the College of Western Idaho is a great online medical billing program in Idaho that’s offered in partnership with CareerStep, designed for those who are detail-oriented, analytical, and looking for a flexible way to start a healthcare career. This fully online, self-paced program lets you learn at home on your own schedule, making it a great option for busy adults balancing other commitments. After you’ve completed coursework, you’ll receive a voucher for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) as well as AAPC membership.
Duration: One Year
Mode: Online
Cost: $3,699
Admissions Requirements:
- Over 18 years of age
- Online Application
Curriculum:
- Program Orientation: Medical Coding and Billing Professional
- Introduction to Healthcare
- Digital Technology
- Comprehensive Medical Terminology
- Law, Liability and Ethics for Healthcare
- Anatomy and Physiology Essentials
- Health Information Management
- Comprehensive Electronic Health Records
- Outpatient Coding
- Medical Billing
- Program Completion: Medical Coding and Billing Professional
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Medical Billing and Coding Certificate — College of Eastern Idaho
The medical billing and coding program at the College of Eastern Idaho offers a flexible, self-paced online course. This program is crafted to fit into your busy life, allowing you to learn on your schedule while covering essential topics like medical terminology, coding guidelines, HIPAA compliance, and revenue cycle management.
With a full year of access and approximately 370 hours of coursework, this online medical billing program in Idaho lets you progress at your own pace and gain the skills needed to step into a rewarding career in healthcare. Plus, this program includes an exam voucher for one of three certification exams, tailored to your career goals and interests.
Duration: One Year
Mode: Online
Cost: $2,660
Admissions Requirements:
- Online Application
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology
- Legal, Ethical, and Regulatory Concepts (including HIPAA compliance)
- Official Coding Guidelines
- Revenue Cycle Management
Medical Coding Intermediate Technical Certificate — Idaho State University
Idaho State University’s medical coding program is designed with flexibility and opportunity in mind, admitting students each spring and fall semester. Whether you’re balancing work and study or seeking a swift path to a new career, this program offers both full- and part-time options and can be completed either online or on campus.
Graduates of this online medical billing program in Idaho will be eligible to sit for the AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) exam. You’ll be prepared to work in diverse healthcare settings, including the potential to work remotely. Other career paths include positions with insurance companies, medical clinics, health maintenance organizations, software companies, and even law firms.
Duration: 18 Months
Mode: Online
Cost: $12,915
Admissions Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- Pre-admission advisory meeting
- SAT minimum scores of 360 Math OR 14 Math in ACT/ALEKS
- Online Application
Curriculum:
- Medical Terminology OR Medical Terminology and Communication
- Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
- Introduction to Pathology OR Introduction to Pathobiology
- Health Information I
- Principles of Drugs and Their Uses
- ICD 10 CM Coding
- ICD 10 PCS Coding
- CPT Coding
- Medical Law and Ethics
- Introduction to Reimbursement
- Advanced Coding and Revenue Cycle Management
- Medical Coding Practicum
Your Questions, Answered: Common Idaho Student Queries
Before you make the time and financial commitment of enrolling in or applying to one of Idaho’s online medical billing and coding programs, it’s natural to have a few questions. In fact, most prospective students want some answers in your position. With that in mind, here are a few commonly-asked questions and answers for you:
How much do Idaho’s medical billing and coding programs cost?
The total cost of a given online medical billing and coding program in Idaho will vary significantly depending on the length of the program, the type of qualification earned, and more. As seen above, costs can range from under $3,000 up to over $10,000 for the whole program’s tuition. However, the listed or “sticker” price of your program may not accurately reflect what you can expect to pay. Many schools offer financial aid and scholarships for students with demonstrated need, so be sure to contact your school for further information on funding opportunities.
What does medical billing and coding training include?
While admissions processes may be slightly different by program, the outcomes tend to be consistent. Medical billing and coding training covers a range of topics that prepare you for the job. You’ll learn medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology to understand the basics of healthcare. Coding classes teach you how to assign the right codes to medical diagnoses and procedures using systems like ICD-10 and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT). You’ll also study billing processes, insurance claims, HIPAA compliance, and other healthcare regulations. Online programs will offer various resources for the duration of their studies, ensuring that you’ll have academic support the whole way. By the end of your training, you’ll be ready to interpret patient information and handle billing accurately, which is essential for any healthcare facility.
How do I know if a medical billing and coding program is accredited?
You can usually find accreditation information on the program’s website, or you can ask the school directly. Look for programs accredited by organizations like the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), recognized by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Accreditation is a mark of quality, and knowing how to find an accredited online medical billing program in ID can help ensure you’re getting a solid education. Accredited programs are more likely to be recognized by employers, which can help you stand out when you’re ready to look for jobs.
Is it worth studying medical billing and coding?
Yes, studying medical billing and coding can be a worthwhile investment. This field offers stability, good earning potential, and flexibility, especially with many remote work opportunities.Getting hired in healthcare often requires abundant education and experience, but this role lets you enter the healthcare field without needing a lengthy or expensive education — some4-week training programs even exist. The skills you learn can open doors to various roles and even further career advancement if you decide to continue your education. If you’re looking for a career with growth potential and job security, medical billing and coding can be a great choice.
How long does an online Idaho medical billing and coding program take to complete?
The time to complete an Idaho online medical billing and coding program varies from program to program, and can even vary from student to student. Some online programs can take as little as one year or even less to complete, while others can take a year and half or more for an associate degree. If you’re studying in a self-paced program, your time to complete it will also be dependent on how you build your course schedule and how long it takes you personally to complete the different course requirements.
Certifications and Continuing Education Options for Medical Billers and Coders in Idaho
There are no official licensure or certification requirements in the State of Idaho at present. However, given that the medical billing training program at Idahoworks.gov requires a high school diploma or GED to enroll, it’s a good idea to have this before you start your education and will likely help you in whatever program you choose. Beyond that, specialist education in medical billing and coding will give employers confidence in your capabilities when you start applying for jobs.
Moreover, you may want to consider becoming certified through a national organization, like the CBCS certification offered by the National Healthcareer Association. This type of certification can help you get the attention of employers in Idaho’s higher-paid and/or more competitive medical billing and coding roles, and some schools will even help you prepare for relevant certification exams as part of your program.
How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Make in Idaho?
Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
---|---|---|---|
U.S. | $35,080 | $48,780 | $77,810 |
Idaho | $36,480 | $49,650 | $69,060 |
Boise City, ID | $38,700 | $50,110 | $78,620 |
Coeur d'Alene, ID | $34,800 | $46,570 | $61,230 |
Idaho Falls, ID | $33,040 | $40,030 | $66,660 |
Lewiston, ID-WA | $32,740 | $43,330 | $63,270 |
Pocatello, ID | $36,600 | $46,890 | $59,290 |
Twin Falls, ID | $38,990 | $44,920 | $69,010 |
Source: Medical Records Specialists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.