Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in North Carolina: Top Programs

Reviewing Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in North Carolina

The best medical billing and coding programs are relatively short in duration, affordable, and offer convenience through one of three formats: asynchronous, synchronous, and hybrid. Asynchronous classes tend to be the most popular because you can study course content on your schedule and commonly turn in a few assignments each week. Synchronous courses, on the other hand, offer real-time instruction that give students the chance to ask questions and interact with instructors and classmates. There are also hybrid courses, a mix of online and in-person instruction that is best for students who want more in-person interaction in their studies.

Other than the instruction type, the duration of the program is also an important factor to consider. Medical billing and coding programs are most commonly offered as certificate/diploma programs that can be completed in less than a year. However, for students who may want to pursue a bachelor’s degree later on, there are associate degree programs that can be completed in two years. To help you get your bearings, consider the three popular medical billing and coding schools in North Carolina below.

Responding to Common Asked Questions from Students

Even if you’re committed to earning your medical billing and coding certificate, you likely have some questions. That’s normal since there is a lot to consider when selecting a program and preparing for a new career. This section tackles some of the most common questions from North Carolina’s prospective medical billing and coding students.

Is it difficult to have a medical billing and coding career, and what should I be watching out for before I try for it?

If you’re great with details, you’ll probably find the transition into billing and coding to be pretty easy. Otherwise, it may be more difficult to get the hang of the position. Billing and coding roles do require excellent computer skills, attention to detail, and consistency with repetitive tasks, as well as knowledge of medical terms and conditions. Some people love those kinds of things and take to it naturally, while others may struggle to stay engaged or learn new technologies. Fortunately, if you’re struggling to get a feel for the job, there are plenty of free online resources to help you out.

Is medical billing and coding a good opportunity to work remotely?

Yes. Many companies hire remote employees for medical billing and coding roles. Because your certificate is recognized nationally, you can apply to specialist jobs anywhere in the country without having to abandon your North Carolina lifestyle. Note that since you’ll be working with confidential patient data, you’ll likely need to comply with certain data security measures. So, remote work in this case may not include working from public spaces like coffeehouses or libraries. There may be fewer remote roles out there, as some healthcare companies reinforce in-office work, but there may be chances to work partially from home in a hybrid situation.

Is it important that my school be accredited before I opt for their medical billing and coding program?

Accredited online programs are evaluated by a third party to ensure their operations and curriculum meet certain standards of quality. People generally think about accreditation when it comes to degree programs since it legitimizes your diploma, allowing your education to be recognized by future employers. It’s worth earning your medical billing and coding certificate at a fully accredited school for that marker of quality. North Carolina is home to dozens of accredited schools with affordable medical billing and coding classes — check their websites to see which accreditations they’ve earned.

What is a good way to plan for taking an online course if you have other responsibilities besides being a student?

Having a plan that is centered on realistic time management is the way to go with a medical billing and coding course, and it doesn’t even have to be 100% remote on your own time. Before you look for programs, consider how much time you’d have to study each week and when you’d like to graduate. Some students try to balance full-time work and family responsibilities, and these students benefit from taking one class at a time and earning their certificates over a longer period. Others are anxious to get in and out as soon as possible, so accelerated programs are best.

Why should I stay within North Carolina for my medical billing and coding education, and can I get financial help with it?

North Carolina has tons of affordable, high-quality opportunities to earn your building and coding credentials. Cost doesn’t always equal quality, though, so focus on finding a program that fits your budget. Take advantage of in-state tuition rates by sticking to North Carolina-based schools. Community colleges also tend to offer excellent programming at a lower cost than four-year universities. Many colleges also offer financial aid programs in order to get more students in the door. As you’re considering your options, reach out to the admission offices to see if financial aid or scholarships are available.

What Certifications and Continuing Education Opportunities are there in North Carolina?

Certification is not a requirement for employment in North Carolina. However, most employers will require candidates to be certified by either the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). A coding credential demonstrates your expertise and dedication to the profession.

Once you’ve finished coursework, the next step is to take a professional exam to earn your credentials. Your certificate program should have amply prepared you to ace the exam of your choice. Tests from the AAPC include ones for Certified Professional Coder (CPC), which cost $400. The AHIMA has its Registered Health Information Technician and the Registered Health Information Administrator exams, both of which cost $300.

As for recertification, you will likely need to take courses for continuing education credits, or CEUs, while you work at a healthcare facility. The time to renew varies depending on the designation you have earned, but most need to be renewed every one to two years.

How Much Are Medical Billers and Coders Paid in North Carolina?