Online medical billing and coding programs teach students how to perform medical insurance billing and coding duties using specific computer software platforms. These programs are best suited for those who demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, apply professional standards of confidentiality, and have strong technical capabilities. Medical billing and coding degree programs are available at the associate level, and select schools may offer a career diploma or certificate option.

Those who graduate with a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in medical billing and coding may seek employment in hospitals, physicians’ offices, dental offices, or outpatient clinics. Programs may provide students with the training and skills required to become a medical secretary, medical manager, health services manager, medical transcriptionist, or medical records technician.

Available Degree Levels

• Career Diploma: Varies
• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete

Online medical billing and coding diploma programs may teach students how to manage fundamental medical records and deal with insurance processing issues. Individuals may study administrative procedures, allied health law and ethics, word processing programs, biochemistry, and pharmacology. Upon completion of select diploma programs, students may opt to take the American Health Information Management Association’s (AHIMA) Certified Coding Associate (CCA) exam.

Students enrolled in online medical billing and coding certificate programs may study diagnostic and procedural coding, medical terminology, and complex coding software programs. Coursework may include information technology, legal and ethical issues, medical terminology, and reimbursement methodologies. Upon completion, students may qualify to sit for the CCA, Certified Coding Specialist – Hospital Based (CCS), or Certified Coding Specialist – Physician Based (CCS-P) exams.

Online associate-level degrees in medical billing and coding prepare students for entry-level employment. Individuals may learn about the standard medical coding system, compliance with federal regulations, and the different medical billing platforms. Typical courses cover medical terminology, reimbursement methodologies, pathophysiology, and healthcare delivery systems.

Career Options

Individuals who complete online medical billing and coding programs may know how to document patients’ healthcare information, organize clinical databases, use classification software applications for reimbursement, and protect patients’ health information for confidentiality. Graduates may pursue employment opportunities in a variety of medical and healthcare facility settings, including doctors’ offices, hospitals, dental offices, or outpatient clinics.

Possible career fields include:

• Medical Records and Health Information Technician
• Medical Transcriptionist
• Medical Manager
• Health Services Manager
• Medical Secretary