Online Medical Billing & Coding Programs in Louisiana

Program Breakdown: Medical Billing & Coding in Louisiana

You don’t need a four-year degree to become a medical biller or coder. However, as 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, typically 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, including the Medical Coding Specialist Certificate program at Southern University at Shreveport.

Let’s explore some top online medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana.

FAQs for Louisiana Medical Coding Students

When researching medical billing and coding online schools in Louisiana, there are many factors to consider. 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 to help guide you.

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

Medical billing and coding programs in Louisiana don’t offer concentration or specialization tracks. However, 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?

It’s not hard, but it’s challenging and requires specific knowledge, specialized skills, and refined 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?

Yes, 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.

If you’re skilled at working independently and getting assignments completed on time, medical billing and coding can be a great remote job.

How do I choose and prepare for a certification exam?

Ensure that the certification exam outcomes match your career goals when choosing which certification is right for you. Obtaining professional certification requires passing an examination, and each specific certification has its own exam and requirements.

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.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Louisiana

After compiling a list of qualifying schools pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), our data analysts looked at these 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.

To see how Louisiana medical billing and coding programs rank against each other, keep reading.

Certifications and Professional Skill Enhancement

There are no guidelines requiring a specific license to work as a medical biller or coder in Louisiana. However, 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. 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.

Medical Biller and Coder Salaries in Louisiana?