Accredited Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Florida to Consider

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Posted Nov 7, 2024

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If you're considering a career in medical billing and coding, Florida has plenty of excellent options to choose from. The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), and has a location in Orlando.

The Broward College in Fort Lauderdale offers an Associate in Science degree in Medical Billing and Coding that can be completed in two years. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

The Keiser University in West Palm Beach offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Administration with a specialization in Medical Billing and Coding.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Online Coding Schools Accredited

What is Medical Billing and Coding?

Medical billing and coding is a crucial part of the healthcare profession, responsible for processing information so providers get paid.

Medical billers and coders use cutting-edge technology to assign a diagnosis-related group (DRG) to a patient's bill, determining how much health insurance companies will pay.

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There are several hundred DRG codes, all of which are crucial for medical billing associates to understand.

A solid understanding of health insurance and the claims process is required for this role, and skilled billing and coding specialists are essential to a medical practice's financial success.

These workers ensure that money keeps flowing into the practice, making them a vital part of the healthcare team.

Education and Training

Medical billing and coding programs in Florida offer a range of educational paths to help you get started in this field.

You can choose from diploma, associate degree, or other programs that prepare you for entry-level roles or further education. Some programs specifically prepare you for certification, which is a big plus in this industry.

A Medical Billing and Coding Diploma Program is a great option if you're new to the field, as it teaches the field-specific skills you need to succeed. It's a shorter program that still gets you job-ready.

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In contrast, a Medical Billing and Coding Associate Degree Program offers a more comprehensive education that includes soft skills employers look for, along with field-specific knowledge. This program is a great choice if you want to stand out in the job market.

If you're looking for a more specialized program, some schools offer 18-month programs that focus on specific areas, such as Diagnostic Coding for MBC or Billing and Coding Application with Simulation. These programs can be a great way to dive deeper into a particular aspect of medical billing and coding.

Diploma Program

A diploma program can be a great way to get started in a new career.

The Medical Billing and Coding Diploma Program prepares you for entry-level roles in the field.

This type of program typically includes certification preparation, which can be a big plus when looking for a job.

You'll gain the field-specific skills needed to succeed in your chosen career.

Certification preparation can give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Associate Degree Program

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If you're interested in a more comprehensive education in medical billing and coding, an associate degree program is a great option. It includes soft skills that potential employers may be looking for, plus field-specific knowledge.

This type of program is designed to equip you with the skills needed to pursue entry-level roles in the field. Certification preparation is also included.

By choosing an associate degree program, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter and be better prepared for a career in medical billing and coding.

Program Details

You can earn a medical billing and coding certification in as little as 18 months through a program that includes diagnostic coding.

The Medical Billing and Coding program at Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology can be completed in just 38 weeks, making it a relatively quick way to enter the field.

This program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to complete coursework online and at your own pace.

Online Learning

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Online learning offers flexibility in study time, allowing you to complete classwork at any time of day. You can choose to study in the morning, at lunch, or even in the middle of the night.

UMA's online courses are designed to be flexible, providing support every step of the way. This includes online academic support, a student-friendly online library, and 24/7 tech support.

While UMA is not a traditional medical billing and coding school, they offer diploma and associate degree programs online. These programs include many student support services, such as one-on-one academic support and career assistance.

All of the online medical coding schools listed as top schools are accredited. Each school also has a range of financial assistance programs available, so be sure to check with the school's admissions office for exact costs.

Career and Certification

You're considering a career in medical billing and coding, and you're looking for accredited medical billing and coding schools in Florida. Let's start with the basics. Our graduates pass the CBCS Certification exam at a higher rate, 79%, than the national average, 78%.

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To become a certified medical biller and coder, you'll need to prepare for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam through AAPC. This certification is a great way to enhance your employment prospects. Graduates will be prepared to take this exam, but it's not required.

You can work in a variety of settings, including state, local, and private hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, and long-term care facilities. These are just a few examples of the many places you can work as a medical biller and coder.

Here are some potential work environments:

  • State, local and private hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Physician’s offices
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Cancer care centers
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Insurance companies
  • Government agencies
  • Remotely

According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment opportunities for medical billing and coding specialists are expected to grow at least 9% between now and 2030.

UMA Program Information

UMA's Medical Billing and Coding Diploma Program prepares you for entry-level roles in medical billing and coding, including certification preparation.

The program includes diagnostic coding for MBC, billing and coding application with simulation, and is a 18-month program.

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You'll also learn medical billing and coding concepts, diagnostic coding, medical terminology, and more, making you a more well-rounded candidate for employment.

UMA is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES.org), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

After graduation, you'll be prepared to pursue an entry-level position in medical billing or coding, with a projected 5% growth in the field from 2023 to 2033, and 41,300 job openings each year on average.

Is UMA Accredited?

Ultimate Medical Academy is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES.org), a national accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

UMA offers online diplomas and degrees, as well as blended healthcare programs, some of which include on-site externships/practicums and certification preparation.

The accreditation is a big deal because it means UMA meets certain standards for quality education.

You can check out ABHES.org to learn more about their accreditation process.

UMA is not a traditional university or college, but they still offer a range of programs that can help you pursue a healthcare career after graduation.

The accreditation also gives you peace of mind knowing that you're getting a quality education that can open doors to new opportunities.

UMA Graduates in This Program Have Found Entry-Level Work in:

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UMA graduates in this program have found entry-level work in a variety of environments, including physicians' offices, hospitals, healthcare organizations, and insurance companies.

These graduates have been able to apply the skills they learned in the Medical Billing and Coding Diploma Program to secure jobs in these fields.

Some of the specific job environments where UMA graduates have found entry-level work include:

  • Physicians' offices
  • Hospitals
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Insurance companies

Florida and Online Schools

Florida has a great selection of accredited online medical billing and coding schools. All of these online schools are accredited, which is a big deal when it comes to getting a good education.

Each of these schools also offers a range of financial assistance programs, so you can check with the school's admissions office to determine the exact costs. This is especially helpful for students who are looking for affordable options.

As an online student in Florida, you'll have some extra financial advantages, like not having to pay for housing, meals, transportation, and other incidentals.

Student Reviews

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One of the standout features of the US Career Institute is that it includes books in the cost of the course, which is a huge advantage for students like H. Wallace, who appreciated having all the necessary materials covered.

The institute's medical billing and coding program has received high praise from students, who appreciate the support and guidance they receive.

Students like Suzette S. have found the courses to be easy to understand and motivating, helping them stay on track and achieve their goals.

Florida

Florida is home to a public, Historically Black University that's one of the largest HBCUs in the United States - Florida A&M University.

The university has a student population of 9,000 and offers a highly flexible asynchronous Medical Coding Certificate program through the School of Allied Health Sciences.

This program consists of nine courses, including Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology and Pathophysiology, and Health Records and Medical Data Content.

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Students will also complete a Capstone Practicum and Review, which is designed to prepare them for the AAPC and/or AHIMA national exams.

The program was developed by industry experts and provides students with the skills they need to begin an entry-level career in professional coding.

Here are the courses included in the program:

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Medical Terminology and Pathophysiology
  • Healthcare Delivery Systems
  • Health Records and Medical Data Content
  • ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding
  • Medical Office Processes and Reimbursement
  • CPT Coding

The program can be completed online, but there is an on-campus practicum required, which allows aspiring medical billers to gain coding expertise in an actual healthcare setting.

Tuition for the program is $10,144.

Online Schools

If you're looking for a medical billing and coding program in Florida, you have the option to attend an online school. Online courses at UMA are designed to include flexible study time, allowing you to complete classwork at your own pace.

UMA offers both Medical Billing and Coding diploma and associate degree online programs, which include many student support services. These services include one-on-one academic support, academic assistance, career assistance, and job search help.

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All online medical coding schools are accredited, including those in Florida. This means you can rest assured that your degree will be recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

Many online medical billing and coding schools in Florida offer financial aid, including Federal financial aid. As an in-state student, you will usually pay less, and some colleges are now charging in-state rates to online students.

Careers and Specializations

You can work in a variety of settings and medical facilities, including state, local and private hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, and more.

Employment opportunities for medical billing and coding specialists are expected to grow at least 9% between now and 2030, with about 37,100 job openings projected on average over the decade.

You can work remotely, and many online medical billing and coding programs, like the one mentioned, offer flexibility and support to help you succeed in the field.

Here are some potential work environments for medical billing and coding specialists:

  • State, local and private hospitals
  • Clinics
  • Physician’s offices
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Cancer care centers
  • Outpatient care centers
  • Insurance companies
  • Government agencies
  • Remotely

What Is a Specialist?

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A medical billing and coding specialist plays a key role in patient care, translating medical information into codes for insurance billing and reimbursement.

These specialists need a sharp eye for detail and strong communication skills. You'll also need to know medical terminology, how health insurance works, and medical coding language.

Medical billing and coding specialists work in various settings, including hospitals, physician offices, and insurance companies. They enjoy regular working hours and a competitive salary.

Here are some of the key certifications for medical billing and coding specialists:

  • Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) through the National Health Career Association (NHA)
  • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
  • Certified Coding Associate (CCA) through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)

These certifications demonstrate expertise in medical coding, coding guidelines and regulations, and proficiency in a wide range of services. They also show a commitment to the coding profession and a level of professional capability valued by employers.

Other Skills in Program

In addition to medical billing and coding, some programs also prepare you for entry-level roles in the field.

You can expect to learn field-specific skills in a diploma program.

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Medical billing and coding associate degree programs include soft skills that employers often look for in candidates.

UMA's Medical Billing and Coding programs teach medical billing and coding concepts, diagnostic coding, and medical terminology.

Students also gain an understanding of healthcare settings, medical law and ethics, claims processing, and records management.

Careers

Careers in medical billing and coding are diverse and in demand. You can work in a variety of settings, including state, local, and private hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, and long-term care facilities.

According to the US Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment opportunities for medical billing and coding specialists are expected to grow at least 9% between now and 2030, with about 37,100 job openings projected on average over the decade.

You can also work remotely, which is a great perk for those who value flexibility. Medical billing and coding specialists play a crucial role in patient care, ensuring that healthcare practices are properly compensated for their work.

Ophthalmologist consulting young patient in medical clinic.
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Here are some of the work environments where UMA graduates have found entry-level work:

  • Physicians' offices
  • Hospitals
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Insurance companies

Medical billing and coding specialists can also advance their careers by pursuing certifications, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA), which can lead to higher-paying job opportunities and greater job satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a medical coder in Florida?

In Florida, becoming a medical coder typically takes 1-3 years, depending on the path you choose, whether it's earning a certification or an associate degree. With the right training, you can start a rewarding career in medical coding in just a year or less.

What is the best accreditation for medical billing and coding?

The most popular and widely recognized credential in medical billing and coding is the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) certification. However, other certifications may suit your career stage and goals, so consider your options carefully.

How much does it cost to get medical coding certification in Florida?

The cost of medical coding certification in Florida is approximately $5,600. Get certified and start your career in medical coding today!

What is the average salary for a medical biller and coder in Florida?

The average salary for a medical biller and coder in Florida falls between $28,000 and $37,400, with the 25th percentile being $28,000 and the 75th percentile being $37,400. This range suggests a moderate income for this profession in Florida.

How much do billing and coders make in Florida?

As of November 2024, billing and coders in Florida earn an average of $16.41 per hour. Check out our resources for more information on medical coding and billing salaries in Florida.

Landon Fanetti

Writer

Landon Fanetti is a prolific author with many years of experience writing blog posts. He has a keen interest in technology, finance, and politics, which are reflected in his writings. Landon's unique perspective on current events and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a simple manner make him a favorite among readers.

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