Online Medical Billing & Coding Schools in Washington: Top Programs

Breaking Down Online Medical Billing/Coding Classes in Washington

Generally, you can finish an online medical billing and coding program in Washington within four months to a year. In some cases, you may be able to find an accelerated medical billing and coding program that can be finished in as few as four weeks. The duration of your program will also depend on the level of education you pursue. For students who want to begin their career as quickly as possible, a certificate or diploma program can be completed in six months to a year. However, if you are interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree later on, a two-year associate degree program might be a better fit.

Also, if you’re working a full-time job or have family responsibilities, you may be wondering how you’ll incorporate an online medical billing/coding program into your busy schedule. If this is a concern, keep in mind that programs have resources for online students that allow flexibility about when you can take classes. Some programs may have evening and weekend options.

Online medical billing and coding schools in Washington provide programs that familiarize students with the medical and technological knowledge employers expect and need. Additionally, these programs prepare you to pass certification exams, which companies also frequently require. The following are some examples of standout programs to give you insight into what they have to offer.

Addressing Frequently Asked Questions by Washington Medical Billing/Coding Students

Although you may be sure that this is the right educational and professional path for you, chances are, you still have some questions about medical billing and coding online schools in Washington. The following are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. Continue reading to find out additional information that will help you on your journey.

Do I need to go to an accredited school for medical billing and coding in Washington?

When working to earn your medical billing and coding certification in Washington State, you’ll want to ensure your school meets certain standards. This means you should research and identify educational options exclusively from accredited schools. Accreditation ensures that you’re getting quality program content because the college has been given the seal of approval from a group of education experts. For example, Everett Community College and Pierce College are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, while UEI College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

How much does medical billing and coding pay in Washington?

As noted above and according to the BLS, medical billing and coding jobs in Washington pay annual salaries between $41,130 and $86,880. The mean annual wage for these professionals is $64,250 per year. Some of the highest average earners in the state work in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($70,760), Bellingham ($66,650), and Olympia-Tumwater ($57,060). The lowest paid workers are in Spokane-Spokane Valley ($54,590), Yakima ($53,230), and Walla Walla ($53,000).

Is medical billing and coding worth it?

Absolutely. In addition to a healthy earning potential, there is also a good chance of finding a job after being awarded a medical billing and coding certification in Washington state. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there will be an 8% increase in jobs between 2022 and 2032. This is higher than the national average for all professions in the country. Also, medical billing and coding offers a stable job market with both in-office and remote job opportunities. If education seems like too big an investment, there are financial aid resources and accelerated four-week programs that can help you launch this stable and satisfying career.

Is medical billing and coding hard?

Medical billing and coding is not an easy field. The vast knowledge of medical terminology and coding guidelines can make this field particularly rigorous. However, once you acquire the needed skills, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the role’s challenges. Medical billers and coders should have strong technology, communication, and customer service skills. In addition, these professionals should have a strong attention to detail.

Is medical coding a good remote job?

Yes. Because much of the role can be accomplished through technology and cloud-based applications, medical billers and coders are able to work from home as long as they have a reliable Internet connection. It is important to note that the best certification to get for remote medical coding work is the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The exam costs $399 and is the most preferred certification among employers.

Certification Pathways and Continuing Education in Washington

The first step to becoming a medical biller and coder is to complete a certificate program, which can generally be done in a year or less. After you complete your coursework in a medical billing and coding program, you’ll go on to take the certification exam. When choosing a school, it’s a good idea to look for a program that provides exam preparation, such as Spokane Community College, which has a five-credit CPC preparation course in its curriculum.

Although Washington doesn’t require medical billers and coders to have a license in order to work, companies do expect prospective employees to have certification from the AAPC or American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). There are several certification exam preparation courses available, such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Professional Biller (CPB), and Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). The AAPC even offers 5 classroom training programs in Washington to help you prepare for the exam, if your chosen program doesn’t already include preparation courses.

How Much Do Medical Billers and Coders Professionals Earn in Washington?

After completing your medical billing and coding education in Washington State, it's natural to wonder about the salary you can expect when you start working. Given that Washington has a relatively high cost of living, this concern can be especially pressing. However, you don't need to worry. As shown in the table below, medical billing and coding professionals in Washington State earn a solid living, with the state median salary at $58,580 as of 2023, and the top 90th percentile earning an average of $86,880 per year. Remember, though, that this can vary depending on the part of the state you're working in. For instance, as detailed below, the top 90th percentile of medical billing and coding professionals in Walla Walla earn an average of $68,540, while those in the Greater Seattle area earn over six figures, with a median of $102,930 per year.