How long will the training take?

CareerStep's online medical coding and billing courses are designed to be completed in 4 months of full-time study. However, the online format allows you to train on your own schedule and at your own pace, so your program includes 12 months of program access in case you need extra time.

Are medical billers and coders in high demand?

Jobs for medical coders are booming and expected to grow 13% through 2026. And not only are there more medical coding jobs, but there are fewer coders! 6,000 new professionals will be needed each year to fill the gap created by retirees. However, only about 2,000 newly trained individuals with inpatient medical coding certification enter the field each year. This shortage means great opportunities, great jobs, and great earning potential.

What type of training is needed for medical coding and billing?

The entry-level requirement for medical coding and billing is post-secondary training. Vocational training programs or an associate degree is a good start. Typically, medical coding and billing programs include courses in medical terminology, coding systems, healthcare reimbursement methods, and health data requirements, just to name a few.

What's the difference between an associate degree and a certificate programs?

Many people wonder about the differences between earning a certificate compared to earning an associate degree. A certificate program consists of taking courses focused solely on a specific professional or technical field. Associate degrees, on the other hand, usually require the learner to take additional courses in other subjects such as writing, math, or other general fields. Earning a certificate tends to be the more streamlined approach once you know what career you want to pursue. So getting that medical coding and billing certificate is faster than pursuing an associate degree, allowing you to focus on career training rather than spending time on unrelated courses.

What will I be learning?

The Professional Medical Coding and Billing program has been designed by experts with decades of experience working in and teaching medical coding. This experience has led us to a 3-part program design:



Foundations The first section of the program covers things like computer fundamentals (optional), the health information management process, and reimbursement methodologies so you thoroughly understand how medical coding fits within healthcare. Biomedical Sciences In order to correctly assign codes, you’ll need a good understanding of biomedical science. This section of the course teaches medical terminology and anatomy and physiology from a coding perspective. Coding Training The final section introduces learners to all of the different code sets. You will have access to use the 3M encoding software, which is a great tool for coders in the industry. You’ll gain hands on experience coding actual medical records provided by our employer partners.

Some of the largest and most respected names in healthcare (including the leading provider of healthcare services in the U.S. and one of the nation's largest managed healthcare companies) use our program to train their employees. Choose training employers prefer.

In addition to knowledge and skills gained through the comprehensive training, the program includes a one-year student membership in AHIMA, which will give you access to AHIMA’s mentor program, online peer communities, member discounts, and quality industry information. The connections you make with other HIM professionals through the membership will give you a distinct advantage in the job market.

Start your medical coding and billing classes online now!

Want more details about what's included in the program? Download the brochure or learning objectives.