How Long is Medical Billing and Medical Coding School? Your Guide to Education, Certification, and Career Prospects

Medical billers and medical coders might not be the most visible professionals in healthcare, but they play a crucial role in ensuring accurate billing and smooth financial processes for both providers and patients. If you're considering a career as either, you’ll be pleased to know that both professions offer flexible education options and opportunities for growth.

What Will You Learn in ACC’s Medical Billing Program?

As a student in American Career College’s (ACC) Medical Billing program, you'll learn the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the business side of healthcare. Medical billing involves processing patient data, working with insurance claims, and ensuring accuracy in billing to support healthcare providers and patients.¹ Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Core Courses: The program covers essential topics such as medical billing procedures, claims processing, reimbursement, and denial management. You'll also develop an understanding of healthcare terminology and the software commonly used in the field.
• Hands-On Experience: Through ACC’s Medical Billing program, you'll complete 100% of the coursework online, followed by an in-person externship that includes 180 hours of real-world experience. This externship helps prepare you to step into your role with confidence.

What Will You Learn in Medical Coding?

The Medical Coding program at ACC offers comprehensive training to equip you with the skills needed to classify healthcare procedures and diagnoses accurately. Medical coders ensure that healthcare providers are properly reimbursed by insurance companies through standardized codes.¹ Here's an outline of what you'll study:

• Core Courses: The program covers vital coding systems like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS, along with medical terminology and body systems. You’ll also practice using real-world coding software and tackle applied coding scenarios.
• Online Flexibility: The program is delivered 100% online, allowing you to earn your diploma in under 8 months while balancing other commitments. You’ll also prepare for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) exams, setting you up for certification success.

How Long Do Medical Billing Programs Take?

ACC’s Medical Billing program, which blends online coursework with an in-person externship, can be completed in approximately 7 months. This timeline makes it ideal for those looking for a shorter path into the healthcare industry.

Factors That Influence Program Length for Medical Billing

Several factors can influence how long it takes to complete your Medical Billing program:

• Prior Education: If you have transferable credits or relevant experience, such as previous healthcare or administrative training, you may be able to shorten the program length.
• Course Format: Coursework is completed fully online and follows a structured class schedule that helps you stay on track and progress confidently toward completing the program.
• Externship: The Medical Billing program includes a 180-hour externship to help students develop practical skills used on the job.
• Certification Preparation: A portion of the curriculum is devoted to preparing students for the CMRS and CPB certification exams.

How Long Do Medical Coding Programs Take?

The Medical Coding program at ACC is designed for flexibility and can be completed in less than 8 months. Since the program is 100% online, you can complete your coursework, master coding systems, and prepare for certification anywhere with an internet connection.

Factors That Influence Program Length for Medical Coding

Several factors can affect the duration of your Medical Coding program:

• Prior Education: If you’ve taken related courses or have previous experience in healthcare, medical records, or billing, you may qualify for credits that could shorten the program duration.
• Course Format: The 100% online format allows students to access their coursework from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Certification Preparation: The program offers one-on-one support to help you prepare for industry certifications like the CPC or CIC.

Certification Exams and Licensing

Earning certification is crucial for enhancing your job prospects in both medical billing and medical coding.

ACC’s Medical Billing program helps you prepare for certifications like:

• Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS)
• Certified Professional Biller (CPB)

ACC’s Medical Coding program helps you prepare for certifications like:

• Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
• Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC)

Although becoming certified is not required, certifications validate your expertise and open additional opportunities in the healthcare industry.

Real-World Preparation and Career Support

Graduates of ACC’s Medical Billing and Coding programs are prepared to succeed in a range of healthcare settings, including physicians’ offices, hospitals, and insurance companies.

ACC’s Career Services team offers free job search support, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and more, to help you take the next step towards your career.

Take the Next Step

Whether you're aiming for a career in medical billing or medical coding, ACC provides the hands-on training, flexibility, and certification prep you need to thrive in this growing field. Take the first step today!

^1.Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Records Specialists, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm (visited September 25, 2024).

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