Guide to the Top Medical Billing & Coding Classes Online in Connecticut
Explore several popular medical billing and coding programs in Connecticut, learn features of top programs, and gain deeper insight into this rewarding field.
While doctors and nurses are often the most visible careers in healthcare, there are many prominent roles that work hard behind the scenes to make a difference. One of the most popular non-clinical careers in healthcare is in medical billing and coding.
Whether you’re a working adult looking to transition into healthcare or a recent high school graduate ready to launch a career, medical billing and coding is an attractive option for many. The medical billing and coding field offers great stability, predictable hours, healthy work-life balance, and the potential for remote work. Plus, the training to become a medical biller or coder can often be completed in one to two years, making it ideal for those looking to break into the field quickly.
If you’re considering becoming a medical biller or coder in Connecticut, you’re in luck. The state offers several popular training programs that will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience to succeed, so keep reading. In this guide, we’ll highlight several popular medical billing and coding programs in Connecticut, highlight key considerations to help you choose the right program, explore the field’s salary and growth potential, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Popular Online Medical Billing & Coding Programs in CT
Connecticut offers several medical billing and coding programs that provide you with the knowledge, skills, and experience to thrive in the field. With so many great hybrid and online options to choose from, it can be challenging to find the right fit for you. In this section, we’ll highlight three popular medical billing and coding programs in Connecticut, exploring curriculum, admissions requirements, and financial aid options.
Charter Oak State College
Charter Oak State College’s Medical Coding Certificate program equips students with the skills and knowledge to code patient medical records for accurate reimbursement. The program covers topics like healthcare terminology, medical coding concepts and guidelines, and record analysis. The 100% online program has six start dates per year and offers credits for prior experience, empowering you to finish your degree quickly and start your career sooner.
Charter Oak State College has scholarships, grants, and other financial aid awards that can help reduce costs. Additionally, the college offers payment plans that split up the cost throughout the semester, making the program more affordable.
Goodwin University
Through Goodwin University’s Medical Billing and Coding program, you’ll gain a foundational understanding of medical terminology, coding concepts, and insurance practices. In as few as 12 months, the flexible program will prepare you for a career at medical billing companies, consulting firms, hospitals, insurance companies, and large medical groups. The program emphasizes both technical and soft skills to ensure you’re fully prepared to launch a successful career once you graduate.
Goodwin University offers financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to help you pay for your education.
Three Rivers Community College
Three Rivers Community College’s Professional Medical Billing and Coding Program is a non-credit training program designed to prepare you for careers in medical billing and coding. The 100% online program can be completed in a little as a year and features five core courses: Medical Coding I (ICD-10), Medical Terminology, Medical Coding II, Medical Health Insurance, and Electronic Health Records. As a student, the price of a one-year American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Membership and Certification Exam are also included.
Please note that because this is a non-credit program, you may not be eligible for financial aid.
Features of Top Programs in Connecticut
Finding the right medical billing and coding program in Connecticut is an important first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. When researching potential programs, it’s important to understand your needs, goals, and learning preferences so you can thrive. Below we’ll highlight several key considerations when evaluating medical billing and coding programs.
Accreditation
You’ll want to make sure your medical billing and coding program provides a quality education that can effectively prepare you for a career. This is especially important in medical billing and coding, where following precise guidelines is crucial for accurate reimbursement and patient care. Accreditation verifies a program meets industry standards and ensures you’re learning the most up-to-date skills and knowledge to succeed in the field.
For example, Three Rivers Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, and the school’s Professional Medical Billing and Coding certification is sponsored by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Certification Exam Preparation
While medical billing and coding certifications aren’t always required by employers, they do help bolster your resume and help you stand out amongst other applicants. In medical billing and coding, national certifications validate your expertise and open doors to better career opportunities and potentially higher salaries. Most strong medical billing and coding programs will provide certification exam preparation to some degree — like in Goodwin University’s Medical Billing and Coding program, which can help you prepare for the nationally recognized Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of each medical billing and coding program in Connecticut will vary, so it’s important to find a program that matches your budget. When evaluating programs, make sure you factor in textbooks, software, and potential certification fees. Explore financial aid to make the program financially feasible and invest in your future career in this growing healthcare field.
For example, YTI Career Institute has a team of educational funding specialists to help students determine how to pay for their medical billing and coding education.
Curriculum and Specializations
Medical billing and coding involve specific coding systems and regulations, making a strong, up-to-date curriculum critical to success. Choose a program that covers these in depth, and consider specializations that align with your career interests. Additionally, you should ensure that the program regularly updates the curriculum to align with changing industry standards.
One example of a comprehensive coding curriculum with a medical science foundation for a well-rounded education can be found in Charter Oak State College’s Medical Coding Certificate program.
Duration and Flexibility
Most medical billing and coding programs can be completed in one to two years — Three Rivers Community College and Goodwin University both offer programs that can be completed in as little as a year. However, duration will vary by school and program, so be sure to do your research. Choose a program that fits your schedule, whether it’s full time or part time. Completing a program quickly allows you to enter the workforce and start earning sooner.
Format
While the programs listed above all offer online options, you’ll also find hybrid and on-campus programs available. Consider your schedule and learning style to help choose the right format for you. If you’re a working adult, you may prefer a 100% online program that offers greater flexibility, allowing you to earn your degree on your own terms.
For example, Goodwin University offers on-campus, online, and hybrid options to accommodate a variety of learners and schedules.
Salary for Medical Billers and Coders in Connecticut
Connecticut offers a competitive salary potential for medical billing and coding specialists that is significantly higher than the national average. Some areas in Connecticut are more attractive from a salary perspective than others. For example, New Haven offers the highest salary potential in the state at nearly $100,000 at the high end, while professionals in Danbury earn around $80,000.
Your experience in the field also plays a critical role in your earning potential. The bottom 10% of medical coding and billing specialists can expect to make around $40,000, which is where many entry-level professionals would fall. However, on the opposite side of the spectrum, the state’s top earners — who likely have far more experience in the field — can expect to earn around $90,000.
It’s important to keep in mind that while the state’s mean annual wage is nearly 20% higher than the national average, Connecticut has a higher cost of living. This means your salary may not stretch as far as it would in other states.
Below, find salary data for “medical record specialists,” which is the closest job title match provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
| Area | 10th Percentile | Mean Annual Wage | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $35,080 | $53,690 | $77,810 |
| Connecticut | $37,420 | $63,250 | $86,440 |
| Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT | $34,440 | $57,410 | $80,700 |
| Danbury, CT | $32,410 | $55,610 | $78,210 |
| Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT | $44,410 | $64,590 | $85,530 |
| New Haven, CT | $45,180 | $69,410 | $98,710 |
| Norwich-New London-Westerly, CT-RI | $38,350 | $68,060 | $93,130 |
| Waterbury, CT | $38,170 | $56,730 | $84,080 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023
Career Outlook for Medical Billers and Coders in CT
The national demand for medical record specialists is surging at a whopping 8.5% growth rate. In Connecticut, the growth for the profession is projected to be smaller but still averages 200 annual openings. While Connecticut has a slower growth rate and fewer job openings, remember that a career in medical billing and coding is remote-friendly, which could expand your job prospects beyond state lines.
| Area | New Jobs | Job Growth Rate | Avg. Annual Openings |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 28,600 | 8.5% | 27,400 |
| Connecticut | 100 | 3.8% | 200 |
Source: Projections Central, 2022 – 2032
FAQs About Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Connecticut
Enrolling in a medical billing and coding program is an exciting step towards an exciting career in healthcare. As you research programs in Connecticut, you might have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the selection process and find the perfect program for you:
How do I become a medical coder in Connecticut?
To become a medical coder in Connecticut, it’s recommended to complete a training program like those we’ve highlighted above. In Connecticut, certification isn’t mandatory; however, it can help you secure a job. You can consider national medical billing and coding certifications like CPC-A.
How much does medical billing and coding pay in Connecticut?
Salary data for medical coders in Connecticut varies by county, job, and years of experience. The average annual wage for medical billing and coding specialists in Connecticut is $63,250, which is significantly higher than the national average of $53,690. Within the state, New Haven offers the highest salary potential, with top earners making $98,710.
Is medical billing and coding worth it?
Medical billing and coding can be a rewarding career path, especially for those interested in healthcare. The demand for skilled coders is decent, making it a stable career choice. Additionally, the training for medical billing and coding can be completed quickly and offers competitive salary potential, making it a great option for those looking to fast-track a new career.
Is medical billing and coding hard?
Medical billing and coding often have stringent standards and regulations that need to be met, which can make it feel a bit overwhelming at first. However, many students find it manageable and are able to find success. Most programs offer a strong foundation and resources to help you excel.
Is medical coding a good remote job?
Medical coding is a prime field for remote work. The job involves analyzing medical records and applying codes, tasks that can be done efficiently from anywhere with a computer and internet access. Many employers in Connecticut offer remote coding positions.
