Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in South Dakota: Top Programs
If you are thinking about pursuing a healthcare career but aren’t interested in direct patient care, consider a career in the medical billing and coding field where you can enjoy the comforts of working remotely. Continue on to learn about online medical billing programs in SD and how they can prepare you for a prosperous career. See profiles of specific schools that offer this training, explore career outlook for the profession, and learn how much workers earn by reading below.
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Understanding South Dakota’s Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes
Getting the right training is essential for starting your medical billing and coding career on the right foot, so you’ll need to find the best program for you. There are a few ways to get the education you need. You could go for an associate’s degree which will give you a broad overview of the healthcare field. If you want to start your medical billing and coding career in a matter of a few weeks or months, you could opt for a certificate program that will focus on foundational medical billing and coding concepts.
if you’re looking for flexibility, online programs are a great option. You can learn at your own pace, which is perfect if you have other commitments like work or family. Many online medical billing and coding programs are self-paced or asynchronous so you can learn at your convenience. The following is a look at schools that offer online medical billing programs in South Dakota.
Healthcare Coding Certificate — Dakota State University
Dakota State University has a Healthcare Coding Certificate that can be earned entirely online or in a hybrid format for students who want to spend some of their time learning on campus. During their studies, people learn how to properly document patients’ symptoms and diseases in addition to the therapies, operations, and procedures they may undergo. Some of the specific courses students take include human health and biology, basic medical terminology, and the legal implications of healthcare.
In addition, students learn the technological side of the profession. This includes courses about computing basics and digital health informatics, as well as the ICD-10 CM/PCS coding classification systems professionals are expected to know.
To help people succeed after they’ve completed the program, Dakota State is partnered with the South Dakota Workforce and Innovation Opportunity Act program. Through WIOA, people who complete this online medical billing program in South Dakota have access to support that can help them navigate the state’s labor market and find employment in the field.
Duration: 1 year
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $8,956.50 per semester
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
Curriculum:
- Learn how to code symptoms, diseases, surgeries, and other treatments using standard classification systems
- Discover how to analyze health records for reporting purposes
- Learn to assist with an organization’s billing process and help with strategic planning
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Medical Coding and Billing Training — American Academy of Professional Coders
The Medical Coding and Billing Training offered by AAPC is designed to prepare students to earn the Certified Professional Coder and the Certified Professional Biller certifications when they have completed their coursework. Although not required for admission, there are some prerequisite classes that AAPC suggests students complete to be successful in the program. By taking the fundamentals of medicine, medical terminology, pathophysiology, and anatomy, students receive the foundation needed to understand program material and get a head start on certification exam preparation.
During a training course, students learn about the insurance claims process and the regulatory compliance healthcare professionals must understand when working with insurers. As a result, graduates are able to prepare and submit forms to insurance companies so providers can be paid for services in a timely manner. Students also gain expertise in the ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding standards.
Duration: 20 weeks
Mode: Live, virtual
Cost: Varies
Admissions Requirements:
- None
Curriculum:
- Learn to accurately code a wide range of medical diagnoses, procedures, and treatments
- Receive comprehensive training and resources to successfully pass the national certification exam
Medical Coding — Black Hills State University (in Partnership with Ed2Go)
The six-week Medical Coding Program from Black Hills State University provided online through Ed2Go begins with medical coding basics. This gives students a look at the history of the profession so they understand the context for work in today’s field. Also, people study the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality and privacy.
Students then learn the realities of working as a medical biller and coder. This includes gaining an understanding of the ICD-10-CM and CPT coding systems. In addition, there is instruction on how to code medical services related to different parts of the body, including the respiratory, endocrine, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems.
Duration: 6 weeks
Mode: Online, self-paced
Cost: $135
Admissions Requirements:
None, but students need access to the following:
- Personal email account
- A computer with Windows 8 or macOS 10.6 and the latest version of the web browser they use (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Safari)
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
Curriculum:
- Learn to use the CPT and ICD-10-CM manuals to accurately code diseases, conditions, treatments, and procedures
- Understand the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of a medical coder
- Learn medical terminology, conditions, and procedures related to major body systems
Answering Common Questions for Students in South Dakota
As a potential medical billing and coding student in South Dakota, there are likely more questions you’re still wondering about. Below, you’ll find answers to additional questions that are common in this field, so continue on to explore more.
Is it worth studying medical coding and billing?
Yes, it is worth it to complete an online medical billing program in SD. This is because professionals will see growth in the field in the coming years, especially considering the aging population who will need access to quality Medicare. Between 2020 and 2030, according to Projections Central, there will be a 13.9 percent increase in jobs. It is also worth studying medical billing and coding because professionals can earn annual salaries that are between $34,080 and $74,240. In addition to job security, medical billing and coding offers flexibility and a variety of remote work opportunities, making it an attractive option for many.
How much is medical billing and coding training?
The tuition for medical billing and coding training depends on where you enroll. For example, Dakota State University charges a per-credit rate of $354.75 for in-state students and $464.90 per credit for those from other states. Students in the program offered by Black Hills State University (in partnership with Ed2Go) pay a flat $135 rate.
Financial aid options may be available, such as grants, scholarships, student loans, and tuition payment plans to help handle the cost of tuition and other expenses. Contact the financial aid offices of the institutions you are considering for more information on available assistance programs.
How long is a medical billing and coding program?
Online medical billing programs in South Dakota can be completed relatively quickly, so students are able to begin their careers in a timely manner. This training can take about one year to complete, though some programs can be finished within a matter of weeks. While accelerated options exist, it’s important to choose a program that fits your learning style and schedule. Keep in mind that degree programs typically take longer to complete than certificate programs, so factor that into your timeline. Consider factors such as the pace of the program, the amount of time required for coursework and assignments, and any required in-person components before making your decision.
How do I find an accredited online medical billing and coding program?
The best way to find out if an online medical billing program in South Dakota is accredited is to get information from the school. It may be posted on a program’s website, or you may want to call or email a school to find out accreditation information.
Accreditation is important because it ensures that the program meets specific educational standards and prepares graduates for professional success. 1 Look for accreditations from recognized agencies such as the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Is medical billing and coding hard to learn?
Whether medical billing and coding is ‘hard’ really depends on the individual and your abilities. If you enjoy working with details, have strong analytical skills, and are comfortable with complex systems, you’ll likely find it easier to grasp. However, if you struggle with details, it might be more challenge.
Some people find medical terminology challenging, while others excel at it. The key is to identify your strengths and weaknesses and choose a learning path that caters to your learning style.
Don’t be discouraged by the complexity; many successful medical billers and coders started with no prior experience. With dedication and the right resources, you can certainly achieve your goals.
Certifications and Continuing Education in South Dakota
While not legally required in South Dakota, professional certifications are highly recommended for medical billers and coders. Many employers in the state prioritize or even require candidates to possess credentials such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the AAPC or the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Earning these certifications not only improves job prospects but also often leads to higher earning potential and better career advancement opportunities.
Ongoing professional development is crucial for medical billers and coders to maintain their skills and stay current with industry changes. Certification maintenance often requires completing a specific number of approved educational activities within a designated timeframe, typically two years, with requirements varying between certifying organizations. These activities might include online courses, seminars, workshops, conferences, or self-study modules, all designed to keep professionals updated on the latest coding guidelines, regulatory changes, and advancements in technology.
How Much Can Medical Billers and Coders Make in South Dakota?
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | $35,080 | $48,780 | $77,810 |
| South Dakota | $34,080 | $49,950 | $74,240 |
| Rapid City, SD | $31,530 | $49,950 | $63,690 |
| Sioux Falls, SD | $34,080 | $54,060 | $82,290 |
Source: Medical Records Specialists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 194,300 | 210,900 | 16,600 | 8.50% | 15,000 |
| South Dakota | 1,150 | 1,310 | 160 | 13.90% | 100 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
