Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Oklahoma: Compare Programs

Understanding Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Oklahoma

Many medical billing and coding programs are offered fully online, and some are even self-paced. This gives you the flexibility to remain employed, tend to personal responsibilities, and avoid relocation while completing your education. There’s no state licensure required to work as a medical biller or coder in Oklahoma, however most employers require applicants to have completed a medical billing and coding program and successfully passed a national exam. We’ll cover those exams in detail below.

As you evaluate potential programs, remember that online courses vary. Some are synchronous, meaning you must be in your virtual classroom at a specific time just like you would be for an in-person class. Other programs are asynchronous, meaning you can complete your coursework anywhere and anytime that works for you. You may also encounter hybrid programs, which include a combination of in-person and online instruction. Think about how you learn best and which format would be best for you.

If you’re ready for more insight into a medical billing and coding career, as well as examples of first-rate programs, continue on to get started.

Your Questions, Answered: Common FAQs for Oklahoma Students

You may still have some questions left unanswered about your potential education and career prospects. Keep reading to find out what students like you typically are wondering about. Whether you’re thinking about salary, state requirements, accreditation, or program costs, we have the answers you need.

How can I increase my starting salary as a medical biller or coder in Oklahoma?

To increase your starting salary, successfully complete a medical billing and coding program, pass a national certification exam, and negotiate when you receive a job offer. By living in a less expensive area, you can maximize your salary. Medical billing and coding is well-suited for remote work, so another option is to pursue a work-from-home position. Saving time by not having to commute can also save you time and expenses that go along with traveling to the office.

What are the Oklahoma state requirements for medical billing and coding?

Medical billing and coding professionals don’t require state licensing in Oklahoma, but that doesn’t mean anyone can get a job in the field. Most entry-level positions require applicants to complete a certification program and one of the national exams. The three main medical coding and billing exam options are the CPC exam, CCA exam, and CBCS exam. Once you have your certification, you’ll need to earn continuing education units so you can stay current with medical billing and coding trends and changes and thereby keep your certification up to date.

What is the average cost of a medical billing and coding program?

It depends. In the schools highlighted above, the average program cost ranged from about $1,800 to $3,000 for a six- to 12-month fully online program. If you’re interested in a medical billing and coding program at a private institution such as Sullivan University, you may pay closer to $15,000 for the program’s 36 credit hours. In some cases, if you’re eligible for financial aid and scholarships, you’ll be able to complete a program at little to no cost. Keep in mind that some programs offer certification exam vouchers, and others do not. If you’re paying that fee out of pocket, you’ll need to add several hundred dollars to the total cost of your program.

How can I find an accredited medical billing and coding school online with financial aid?

To make sure a program is accredited, check the institution’s website, look for the accrediting agency body, and validate their legitimacy with the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP). Accreditation ensures that a school meets certain quality standards when it comes to coursework and the student experience. Investing in your education is well worth your time and money if you choose a quality school. It’s important to note that only students at accredited schools are eligible for federal financial aid. You may also be eligible for state aid, institutional aid, scholarships, and grants.

What roles will I be qualified for after I complete a medical billing and coding program?

Once you’ve completed your program, you’ll be ready to carve your own path. Popular medical billing and coding careers include:

• Billing analyst, which involves managing payment relationships between providers and patients. In short, billing analysts work to ensure healthcare organizations receive income from insurance companies and patients.
• Coding auditor, which involves checking the work of other coding professionals to ensure providers are receiving accurate payments and that insurance companies aren’t over or underpaying.
• Medical records coordinator, which involves working behind the scenes at healthcare facilities to keep patient medical records accurate and complete.
• Reimbursement specialist, which involves processing and submitting invoices and insurance claims, coordinating insurance coverage with the correct medical services, and managing both medical records and financial data.

Your Options for Certifications and Continuing Education in Oklahoma

If you’re worried about meeting licensing requirements to be a medical biller and coder in Oklahoma, you don’t need to be concerned: Oklahoma doesn’t require a license to work in the field. Keep in mind, however, that potential employers do set requirements that typically involve completing a medical billing and coding program at an accredited school and taking a certification exam to show you have the knowledge needed to succeed in this field.

Choosing the certification test you take will also carve out your path for employment. Some tests, such as the CPC exam, focus on coding. Other tests, such as the CBCS exam, cover both billing and coding. Once you select the certification that you want to pursue, make arrangements to take the test. Some exams must be taken at a testing center, others can be taken online, and others allow you to choose. No matter which you choose, you’ll want to review your class materials and take advantage of study guides and practice tests so you feel ready to ace the exam.

Oklahoma Salary Overview: How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Make?