Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Michigan: Compare Programs

A Closer Look at Michigan’s Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes

For most medical billing and coding positions, you’ll need to complete a certificate program, which usually takes about a year. Some students choose to continue their education and earning an associate’s degree in medical billing and coding. This usually takes about two years to complete.

Most billing and coding classes in Michigan can either be taken in-person, online, or in a hybrid format (a combination of in-person classes and online coursework). Online courses are ideal for students who need flexibility to balance professional and personal commitments. If you pick an online format, remember to check if the course is completed asynchronously or synchronously. While some programs allow you to complete the coursework at your own pace, others require you to meet at specific times via video conference. Additionally, some programs may include an in-person externship. Explore some great options for prospective students like you by reading below.

Answers to Michigan Student Queries: Common FAQs

Enrolling in a medical billing and coding program is a big decision, so it’s normal to have questions about what you’ll study and the career opportunities you’ll have after graduation. Below, we’ve tried to answer some of the most common concerns that prospective students have. Keep reading for everything you need to know about becoming a medical biller and coder in Michigan.

Are medical billing and coding classes ever offered online or part-time?

Yes, and yes. Most universities in Michigan offer their medical billing and coding classes online both synchronously and asynchronously, offering you flexibility to manage other professional and personal responsibilities. However, each school and program is different, so always be sure to check the program details when researching programs. Each school’s website should tell you whether the program is available online and whether part-time study options are available. Some programs may include an in-person externship at the end of the program, so keep that in mind as you weigh options.

Are there any prerequisites for medical billing and coding programs?

Each school will have different requirements for its programs, so it’s important to examine each one individually when checking for prerequisite requirements. Typically, earning a certificate or diploma won’t have many (if any) prerequisites besides age and a high school diploma/GED. However, if the program you are considering is embedded in a degree such as an associate or bachelor’s degree, it’s reasonable to expect some prerequisites. However, there are many options that allow you to get started right away. For example, Central Michigan University doesn’t require any prerequisites for its online medical billing and coding classes.

Is medical billing and coding hard?

How difficult a medical billing and coding class will be will depend on the skills you cultivate factored in with your preferred learning style. The medical billing and coding field features its share of challenges, but with the right training, they can be overcome. If you’re detail-oriented, have an interest in healthcare, and feel passionate about helping others, then you would be well-equipped to become a medical billing and coding specialist.

What certification exam(s) do I need to take before I can start working?

Many employers will require a certification before they consider hiring you. You can obtain certification by taking one of several options available in Michigan. The two most common certification exams are the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification and the Certified Professional Biller (CPB) certification. These are both offered by the American Association of Professional Coders. You must complete at least one exam before you can start your career in the healthcare field. You will also need to become re-certified every couple of years. This will require paying renewal fees and completing any necessary continuing education requirements.

What is the process for applying to a medical billing and coding program?

Like everything else, this will depend on the specific program/university and its unique requirements for admission into its medical billing and coding classes. Some of the most common requirements are a high school diploma or GED, an ACT or SAT score, and an admission essay. You may also be asked to attend an information or orientation session, and some schools may require you to undergo a criminal background check or a drug screening. As this is an undergraduate certificate, you will not need any kind of college degree and admission is generally not highly selective.

Ranking the Best Online Medical Billing and Coding Classes for Students in Michigan

There are a lot of schools vying for your time and money, so to help you narrow down the options, we’ve created a rigorous ranking system that identifies some of Michigan’s top medical billing and coding programs. All of these accredited school feature comprehensive curriculum, a flexible online or hybrid format, and affordable tuition. As you begin your search, these schools can serve as examples of what to look for. For more details on our ranking system, see the methodology pop-up.

Certifications and Continuing Education: Your Options in Michigan

Many employers in Michigan require medical billing and coding professionals to have a related certification, but there is no statewide mandate for it. The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) both offer certification exams. Be sure to look at the details of your program as many include an exam fee as part of the tuition. At the very least, a program’s curriculum should prepare students to successfully sit for one of the national exams.

The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is geared toward entry level positions while the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is the most widely recognized accreditation in the industry.

To become certified, individuals must graduate from an approved program and pass a national exam. To maintain their certification, students need to complete continuing education requirements and pay any necessary renewal fees. While not strictly required by the state, certified medical billers and coders will have a better chance at advancing their careers and increasing earning potential.

Earning Potential: How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Make in Michigan?