Medical billing and coding are vital healthcare careers that keep records accurate and claims paid. Coders assign diagnostic codes; billers use them to submit insurance claims. This guide will help you explore training, certification, and job paths in both fields.
What does a medical biller do?
A medical biller converts healthcare services into billing codes and submits claims to insurance companies for payment. They verify patient insurance, prepare invoices, track claim status, and resolve denied claims. Medical billers ensure providers get paid and patients receive accurate bills by managing the entire medical billing process.
Daily medical billing tasks:
- Verifies patient insurance coverage
- Converts procedures into billing codes
- Prepares and submits insurance claims
- Follows up on denied or unpaid claims
- Sends invoices and collects patient payments
What does a medical coder do?
A medical coder reviews clinical documentation and assigns standardized codes for diagnoses, treatments, and procedures. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and healthcare data tracking, ensuring accuracy and compliance in medical records.
Daily medical coder tasks:
- Reviews patient charts and clinical notes
- Assigns code classifications including ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT and HCPCS
- Ensures coding accuracy and compliance
- Works with providers to clarify documentation
- Updates records for billing and audits
What is needed to become a medical billing or coding specialist?
Becoming a coder or biller does not require formal education, but training and certification are preferred by many employers. The recommendation for working in the field include a training program and earning certifications.
- Complete your high school diploma or GED.
- Enroll in a medical billing or coding training program. There are options for in-person and online learning experiences.
- Earn relevant coding or medical billing certifications.
Medical billing & coding certifications
Please note the data below is reviewed annually. Please check provider websites for the most current information.
| Certification | Organization | Estimated Cost | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPC (Certified Professional Coder) | AAPC (online/instructor-led prep) or community colleges (e.g., Lehman, BMCC, Penn Foster) | Exam: $399–$499 (core exam – 1 attempt, non-student) Prep courses: $2,200–$7,100 (e.g., Penn Foster $2,199; AAPC instructor-led $3,549–$7,098) | 4–16 weeks (self-paced) to 32 weeks (instructor-led) |
| CPB (Certified Professional Biller) | AAPC (bundled with CPC prep or standalone via providers like Fellow Health Partners) | Exam: $399–$499 (member/non-member) Prep: e.g., Fellow Health Partners $2,695 (16 weeks) | 16 weeks (live + self-paced) |
| CCA (Certified Coding Associate) | AHIMA-approved programs (e.g., CUNY SPS certificate, BMCC voucher) | Exam: $199 (member) / $299 (non-member) Prep bundles: AHIMA 13-course bundle at $3,887 | 4–6 months depending on pace |
| CBCS (Certified Billing & Coding Specialist) | U.S. Career Institute, BMCC voucher prep | Exam: $117–$200 Program: $2,000–$3,000 total | 4–8 months online programs |
| AHIMA Medical Coding & Reimb. Cert. | AHIMA (13-course online bundle) | Bundle: 13×$299 = $3,887 | 4-8 months online programs |
| CCS / CCS-P (Advanced AHIMA) | AHIMA preparation via online/textbook resources | Exam: $299–$399 (member/non-member) Prep: $300–$800 | 1–3 months post-CCA with 1 year experience requirement |
| NHA Billing & Coding Cert. (CBCS) | National Healthcareer Association via partner schools | Exam: $117–$200 Prep program: $2,000–$3,000 | 4–8 months certificate programs |
Where do billers and coders work?
- Hospitals: Manage inpatient billing cycles and coordinate with coding departments
- Private Practices: Handle end-to-end billing for smaller clinics
- Billing Services: Work for third-party providers managing billing for multiple healthcare entities
- Insurance Companies: Assist with claims validation and reimbursement processes
- Remote/Telehealth Companies: Process billing from a home office using cloud-based platforms
What is the job outlook for medical billing and coding professionals?
The job outlook is strong, with employment projected to grow 9% by 2033. Demand is driven by aging populations, digital health records, and the need for accurate insurance billing.
What is the salary for a medical biller or coder?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical records specialists was $50,250 in May 2024.
A 2025 medical records specialist* salary report from AAPC shows an average salary of $61,022 for non-certified professionals and $66,979 for certified. Salaries are much higher for those that go on to receive multiple medical record certifications.
*This report includes salaries for medical billers, auditors, coders and more.
Is medical billing a good job?
Yes, medical billing is a good job for those seeking stability, flexibility, and entry into healthcare without a degree. It offers remote work options, steady demand, and strong growth potential – especially for professionals skilled in digital tools and medical billing software.