Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Louisiana: View Programs

Breaking Down Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Louisiana

You won’t necessarily need a four-year degree to become a medical biller or coder — though like with all roles, the more education you have, the more competitive you can be for higher salaries and in-demand positions. Students typically choose to enroll in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree program — which can range from four weeks of training to two years of college.

Many medical and billing programs in Louisiana (including the two spotlighted below) feature 100% online coursework, most often delivered in an asynchronous format that allows students to log on and complete their studies at their convenience. Other programs are campus-based or offered in a hybrid format that combines online courses with in-person clinicals — such as the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate program at Southern University at Shreveport. It’s critical, therefore, that you fully understand the format for any medical billing and coding program before you enroll.

Ready to explore some top online medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana? Let’s get started.

Addressing Popular Medical Billing and Coding Student Questions

When researching medical billing and coding online schools in Louisiana, there are many factors to consider. But the goal of these programs is the same: to prepare you to obtain your professional certification and begin your career. If you still have questions, below are some answers to FAQs that may help guide you.

Are there specific specializations or customizations for medical billers and coders?

Medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana do not necessarily offer concentration or specialization tracks. However, it’s important to note that some programs (like the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate program at Delta Community College) are specifically for medical coding, while others prepare students for working as both medical billers and medical coders. Be sure you have a clear understanding of exactly what a program prepares you for before you sign up.

Is medical billing and coding hard?

The answer to this question depends on your specific skills and talents. Medical billing and coding work requires some technical knowledge of clinical language and standardized codes based on a coding classification system and software. If you are detail-oriented and possess a basic proficiency in using computers and software, then you likely won’t have a problem mastering the skills needed to work in the medical billing and coding field.

Do I need to go to an accredited school for medical billing and coding?

Yes, you should pursue your education at an accredited school. Along with ensuring the institution you choose for pursuing your medical billing/coding certification is accredited — which means it’s been reviewed and approved by an impartial third party to meet academic standards — it’s also common that these programs will meet the standards set forth by certification agencies.

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is one of the largest credentialing agencies for medical coders, but there are others like AHIMA and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Most employers of medical billing and coding workers in Louisiana either prefer or require employees to possess a professional certification, so you need to confirm that any program you consider will prepare you to sit for the exam for the professional certification you’re interested in receiving.

Is medical coding a good remote job?

Medical billing and coding professionals, particularly medical coders, are often able to work remotely from home or practically anywhere else with secure (as required for HIPAA compliance) internet access. Like other remote healthcare jobs, telecommuting in medical billing and coding roles requires a fair amount of organization and self-discipline. But if you’re skilled at working independently and getting assignments completed on time, then medical billing and coding can be a great remote job.

How do I choose and prepare for a certification exam?

Obtaining professional certification requires passing an examination, and each specific certification has its own exam and requirements. When considering which certification is right for you, you’ll want to align their outcomes with your career goals. Some online programs prepare you for specific exams by including test prep courses as part of their curriculum. For example, the Medical Coding Program at Delgado Community College in New Orleans prepares students to sit for the CPC and CCA certification exams. If the program you select does not include certification exam preparation, you can take online courses through the AAPC to supplement your education.

Louisiana’s Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Classes Ranked

Interested in a data-driven ranking of Louisiana medical billing and coding programs? Keep reading. After compiling a list of qualifying schools pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), our data scientists analyzed programs based on a variety of factors — including metrics such as the number of online programs in the subject area, percentage of total students taking at least one distance education class, average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full time, and more.

The results are tallied below.

Certifications and Professional Skill Enhancement

In the state of Louisiana, there are no guidelines requiring a specific license to work as a medical biller or coder. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many employers prefer candidates who have certification from an industry-recognized organization, such as the AAPC or AHIMA. The costs of certification exams vary, and some schools include a voucher for a test as part of your enrollment fees in a medical billing and coding course.

If you have earned a certification, you’ll need to renew or recertify after a specific time period. Once again, these guidelines vary depending on your certificate. For example, AAPC renewals happen every two years and involve completing continuing education credits (CEUs), which vary depending on your specific credential. Be sure to confirm renewal details with your certification agency.

What is the Potential Salary of a Medical Biller and Coder in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, medical billing and coding professionals are experiencing a favorable job market. The median annual salary stands at $48,810, with the top 10% earning up to $74,300. Salaries vary across regions; for instance, professionals in Baton Rouge have a median salary of $62,090, while those in Monroe earn around $36,540.

Employment opportunities are on the rise. Currently, there are approximately 2,110 positions in the state, with projections indicating an increase to 2,280 by 2030. This growth rate of 8.1% aligns closely with the national average of 8.5% for this profession. Annually, about 160 job openings are expected, encompassing new positions and replacements. These trends suggest a stable and growing field for medical billing and coding professionals in Louisiana, offering competitive salaries and expanding employment opportunities. Check out the tables below for more detailed information about your career prospects in Louisiana.