Online & Campus Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Idaho: Discover Your Perfect School Match
If you live in Idaho and want an abundance of remote career prospects, find the online or hybrid medical billing coding program right for you below.
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Deciding on a future in healthcare is an exciting and meaningful journey, and for some, choosing the right online medical billing program in Idaho is a crucial first step. But getting started can feel overwhelming — there are so many options, requirements, and details to consider. The good news is that with online programs, you have the convenience of studying from anywhere while balancing your other commitments, leading you to a flexible, stable career with ample growth opportunities.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about online medical billing programs in Idaho. Whether you’re looking for a short-term certificate or a more comprehensive degree, you’ll find details about various program options, learn what credentials are available, and decide which path best suits your goals. You’ll also find key considerations like program costs, accreditation, and what to expect from your coursework.
Finding the right program is essential for your success, so use this guide to take that first step with confidence. Read on to get started on this rewarding career path in healthcare.
Idaho’s Popular Medical Billing & Coding Programs
You’ll find a wide variety of online medical billing programs in Idaho designed to fit different schedules, budgets, and career goals, and each will prepare you for a meaningful career in medical billing and coding. In this section, explore some of the top programs available, and learn key details like program length, costs, student resources each offers, and certification options to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
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 and is 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.
In just 12 months, you’ll build a solid foundation in medical terminology, coding systems, and billing processes. You’ll complete 14 comprehensive courses at a total program cost of $3,699, covering key areas such as digital technology, law and ethics, anatomy and physiology, health information management, and billing and coding.
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, giving you the tools and resources you need to start your career with confidence.
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:
- CPC exam offered by the AAPC
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
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, opening doors to a range of career opportunities. 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.
The medical coding technical certificate is a 38-credit program, typically completed in a year and a half. And, with the credits you earn, you’ll be well on your way to advancing your education, as they easily transfer to an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology or a Bachelor of Science in Health Science.
Salary & Career Outlook in Idaho for Medical Billing and Coding Specialists
The data provided in the tables below gives you valuable insights into the career prospects and earning potential of medical billers and coders across the United States and specifically in Idaho. Please note that since career and salary data are not available for “medical biller/coders,” career data for “medical records and health information technicians” was used below; similarly, salary information was pulled for “medical records specialists.”
Salaries in healthcare can range widely depending on location, but as you’ll see below, the salaries for medical coding positions in Idaho are close to the national median salary.
The first table outlines salary ranges. Nationally, the median salary is $48,780, which is slightly below Idaho’s median salary of $49,650. Ranges can vary depending on whether cities are urban or rural; for example, the densely populated Boise has a high 90th percentile salary compared to national averages, whereas figures from the more rural Coeur d’Alene suggest lower salary potential.
The second table shows the number of current and projected medical coding jobs, along with expected job growth. Idaho shows almost three times the national job growth at 21%, which translates to 250 new jobs in the state and an increase from 1,190 to 1,440 jobs over the coming years.
Overall, the data highlights a promising career path with room for advancement and an increasing number of opportunities, particularly in Idaho, where growth rates suggest a rising need for qualified professionals.
| Area | 10th Percentile | Median | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,080 | $48,780 | $77,810 |
| Idaho | $36,480 | $49,650 | $69,060 |
| Boise City | $38,700 | $50,110 | $78,620 |
| Coeur d’Alene | $34,800 | $46,570 | $61,230 |
| Idaho Falls | $33,040 | $40,030 | $66,660 |
| Lewiston | $32,740 | $43,330 | $63,270 |
| Pocatello | $36,600 | $46,890 | $59,290 |
| Twin Falls | $38,990 | $44,920 | $69,010 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2023
| Area | Current Jobs | Projected Jobs | New Jobs | Job Growth | Avg. Annual Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 194,300 | 210,900 | 16,600 | 8.5% | 15,000 |
| Idaho | 1,190 | 1,440 | 250 | 21.0% | 30 |
Source: Projections Central, 2020-2030
Medical Billing and Coding Careers
Billing Analyst
A billing analyst plays a vital role in making sure healthcare services are billed correctly and fairly. If you’re interested in this role in your future career, you’ll review and process invoices to ensure accuracy and timely payments, helping both patients and healthcare providers feel confident in the billing process. By identifying and fixing any errors, you’ll help prevent overcharges or missed payments, supporting a smooth experience for everyone involved. You’ll also work with other teams to streamline billing procedures, making sure the organization runs efficiently.
Coding Auditor
A coding auditor is dedicated to ensuring that medical codes assigned to healthcare services are correct and compliant with regulations. If you’re passionate about details and accuracy, this may be an ideal role for you, as you’ll carefully review patient records and assigned codes, checking for accuracy so that patients and providers receive the right outcomes. If you spot any mistakes, you’ll provide guidance to improve coding accuracy, helping to avoid issues with billing or reimbursement. Coding auditors play a key role in making sure that healthcare organizations remain compliant with coding standards, which ultimately supports better patient care and financial stability for the organization.
Medical Record Coordinator
A medical record coordinator helps keep patient information organized, accurate, and accessible when needed. Working in this role means you’ll manage both digital and paper records, ensuring everything is up to date and secure. Your work ensures that doctors and other healthcare providers have the right information at their fingertips, which can be crucial for patient care. By maintaining accurate records and responding to information requests, you also protect patient confidentiality. This role is essential for smooth healthcare operations, as you’ll provide the support that helps both patients and providers trust that everything is in order.
Reimbursement Specialist
A reimbursement specialist is there to make sure healthcare providers are fairly compensated for the services they provide. If this is a future role in your career, you’ll be in charge of handling medical claims, submitting them to insurance companies, and following up to make sure payments are processed. This role requires a strong understanding of insurance processes so you can resolve any issues if a claim is denied. By securing timely payments, you’ll help healthcare providers focus on their important day-to-day work: patient care. Reimbursement specialists work as patient advocates, too, ensuring that insurance companies cover promised services.
Answering Your Top Questions
How much do Idaho’s medical billing and coding programs cost?
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. 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.
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. 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?
Accreditation is a mark of quality, and choosing an accredited online medical billing program in ID can help ensure you’re getting a solid education. 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). You can usually find accreditation information on the program’s website, or you can ask the school directly. 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 — some 4-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.
