Program Review: Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Oregon

Understanding Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Oregon

If online learning is your preference, then you’re in luck: Oregon schools offer lots of options to earn your medical billing and coding certificate online. Oregon medical billing and coding programs can be completed in less than a year and get you into the workforce quickly.

Dig into the materials for any program you‘re considering to determine if classes are synchronous or asynchronous. If you prefer learning in person, Oregon schools offer options there, too. Hybrid programs give you a bit of both if you’re not sure which one is right for you.

Ultimately, the right online medical billing and coding program in Oregon will not only provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed, but it will also fit your learning style, schedule, and budget.

Your Questions, Answered: Oregon Students’ FAQs

Still have questions? That’s to be expected. With multiple programs to choose from and different approaches for each, choosing the right online medical billing and coding program isn’t a simple task. Below we’ll tackle some of the most common questions gathered from prospective students.

How long is a medical billing and coding program?

Oregon has many medical billing and coding programs available with varying degrees and timeframes. You’ll quickly find diploma, certificate, and associate degree programs. Ultimately, the length of the program will depend on the type and institution offering it. Certificate programs can usually be completed in under a year, while degree programs typically take two years or more. Many programs offer students the choice between part-time and full-time study. Obviously, you’ll finish more quickly with full-time study, but that isn’t always an option for students juggling other responsibilities. What’s most important is finding a high-quality program that will prepare you for a challenging job in medical billing and coding.

How much does a medical billing and coding program cost?

The cost of a medical billing and coding program varies significantly depending on the institution, the type of program, and whether you attend a public or private school. In some cases, online medical billing and coding programs in Oregon cost less than traditional on-campus programs — and even if they don’t, you’ll still save time and money by eliminating the commute to campus. Regardless of the program you choose, you can expect to pay tuition, fees, and textbook costs. Some online medical billing and coding programs in Oregon offer financial aid options, such as grants or scholarships, to help minimize the financial burden.

How should I choose which online medical billing and coding program to take?

When choosing an online medical billing and coding program in Oregon, consider the following:

• Cost: Compare tuition and financial aid options to make sure the program you favor is affordable.
• Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
• Curriculum: Review the program’s curriculum to make sure it covers all the necessary terminology and topics to succeed as a medical billing and coding professional.
• Job placement assistance: Some online medical billing and coding programs have people specially trained to help you land a job.
• Schedule and flexibility: It’s crucial to find a program that you can fit seamlessly into your life.

Once I complete my program, what jobs will I be qualified for?

Here are some popular jobs that are a good fit once you’ve completed a medical billing and coding program:

• Billing analysts ensure accurate and timely financial transactions, verify insurance coverage, submit claims, and investigate and correct errors.
• Coding auditors review medical records to ensure that diagnoses and procedures are accurately coded.
• Medical records coordinators play a vital role for patient privacy and HIPAA compliance by ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality of patient records. They also complete record audits as needed.
• Reimbursement specialists ensure healthcare organizations receive payment for the services they provide. They also negotiate rates and appeal denied claims.

How do I maintain medical billing and coding certification?

Medical billing and coding specialists need to complete continuing education units (CEUs) within a designated timeframe and keep up with the annual fees to maintain membership for a certifying organization, such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). Different certifications will need a certain amount of CEUs within about two years. It’s also important to keep renewal deadlines in mind so that your CEUs and renewal fees are received on time. By fulfilling these requirements, you can ensure your status as a credible medical biller or coder stays active and valid.

Your Options for Certifications and Continuing Education in Oregon

Like many states, Oregon doesn’t require licensure to be a medical biller and coder. That said, employers expect you to have the knowledge and skills to do the job well, so your best option is to complete an online or in-person medical billing and coding certificate or diploma program and then to pursue a certification exam. With those credentials, employers will be assured that you have the know-how to do the job well.

You’ll have multiple certification options to choose from. Two popular examples include:

• Certified Professional Coder from the AAPC, which starts at $399. Take your exam online with a remote proctor or at one of Oregon’s eight testing centers.
• Certified Coding Specialist from the American Health Information Management Association, which starts at $299. Take your exam at one of more than 25 Pearson VUE testing centers.

Once you’ve completed your program and gotten your certification, keep an eye on the requirements to keep your certification. Most require a certain number of continuing education units to show you’re keeping up with changes in the industry. Tap into industry resources to help yourself stay up to date.

Salary Potential for Students: How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Make in Oregon?