Once making the decision to pursue certification, finding the appropriate program can be a daunting task with so many available options. The following information will put you on the right track to discovering your own path.
Many colleges offer certification in the form of associate degrees in medical coding and you can find certification programs online. Distance learning from an accredited college is a popular option towards certification because of its convenience and flexibility. There are specialty certification programs in the medical coding field which may be helpful to those who already know what niche they want to work in. If you can’t decide on one certification route, pursuing multiple certifications is another option although there’s no guarantee that this will be more beneficial in any way. It takes anywhere from 9 months to two years to complete the process. A program offering certification before 9 months time probably isn’t a trustworthy source.
It is important to note that no definitive standard for certification in medical coding currently exist. The most reputable certification is offered by the American Health Information Association (AHIMA). The only prerequisite required by candidates is a high school diploma and heavy preparation. A fee of a few hundred dollars must be paid during the application process and the candidate is able to pick the day, time and location of testing. If certified by the AHIMA, employers will likely view this highly above any other certification.
Top Medical Billing & Coding Schools
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Campus
Performance Training InstituteProgram
- Medical Office and Administrative Specialist with Billing and Coding
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Campus
Allen School (Online)Program
- Medical Insurance Billing and Coding
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Campus
Penn FosterProgram
- Medical Coding and Billing
- Medical Coding and Billing
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Campus
Ashworth CollegeProgram
- Health Records
- Medical Billing/Claims
- Medical Office Assisting
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Campus
Harrison College Online (2) (Outside IN)Harrison College Online (Indiana Only)Program
- Medical Reimbursement Technology
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Campus
BeltsvilleBaltimoreTowsonProgram
- Health Information Technology
- Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
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Campus
Columbus - OHLafayetteElkhartEvansvilleFort WayneTerre HauteColumbus - INMuncieAndersonIndianapolis - EastIndianapolis - DowntownProgram
- Medical Reimbursement Technology
- Medical Office Assistant
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Campus
El PasoProgram
- Medical Information Specialist
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Campus
AnaheimColtonProgram
- Medical Billing and Coding
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Campus
ClearwaterTampaProgram
- Medical Insurance Billing & Coding Specialist
- Medical Billing & Coding