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If you live in New York and want a stable career in healthcare without direct patient care, medical billing and coding is one of the fastest ways to get started. New York has many accredited programs that prepare you for industry-recognized certifications and entry-level jobs in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies.
The best program for you will depend on location, budget, schedule, and whether you want in-person or online learning.
Before you enroll, focus on choosing an accredited school. This ensures you can take national certification exams like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA).
What to Look for in a New York Medical Billing and Coding School
Not all programs are the same. Here's what to check:
- Accreditation - Look for schools recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) or regional accrediting agencies.
- Certification Preparation - The curriculum should align with exams like CPC, CCA, or CCS.
- Flexible Schedules - Many students work while training, so evening, weekend, or online courses can be a plus.
- Externships - Hands-on experience in a healthcare setting makes you more job-ready.
- Job Placement Assistance - Some schools work directly with employers to help graduates find jobs.
Tip: In New York, there is no license requirement for medical billing and coding. Employers usually expect certification from recognized national organizations.
Top Medical Billing and Coding Schools in New York
Below are some of the strongest options based on accreditation, course offerings, and graduate support.
1. New York Medical Career Training Center - Flushing & Manhattan
- Offers a Medical Billing and Coding Specialist program
- Includes ICD-10, CPT-4, and HCPCS coding instruction
- Designed for certification exam preparation
- Day, evening, and weekend schedules available
2. CUNY School of Professional Studies - Online
- Fully online Medical Coding Certificate program
- Accredited and taught by experienced healthcare professionals
- Prepares for AHIMA's CCA exam
- Designed for working adults
- Medical Billing and Coding Certificate Program
- Includes training in electronic medical records
- Offers career services and job search support
- Affordable tuition through CUNY system
4. Monroe College - Bronx & New Rochelle
- AAS in Medical Administration with coding focus
- Combines coding with business and healthcare administration skills
- Externship placement included
- Option to continue toward a bachelor's degree
5. Mildred Elley - New York City and Albany
- Career-focused Medical Office Assistant program with coding modules
- Prepares for billing and coding certifications
- Offers lifetime career assistance for graduates
- Flexible schedules, including hybrid learning
- Offers a Medical Office Management AAS degree
- Strong focus on billing, coding, and healthcare software
- Financial aid available for qualified students
- Prepares for both AHIMA and AAPC certification exams
Typical Program Lengths in New York
| Program Type | Average Duration | Format Options |
| Certificate | 6-12 months | In-person / Online |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months | In-person / Hybrid |
Steps to Start Your Medical Billing and Coding Career in New York
- Research Accredited Schools - Focus on those with strong graduate placement records.
- Apply for Admission - Many schools have open enrollment but may require placement testing.
- Apply for Financial Aid - Use the FAFSA if you need help covering costs.
- Complete Training - Stick to your schedule and make use of tutoring or support if needed.
- Earn Certification - Most employers require a credential from AAPC or AHIMA.
- Apply for Jobs - Target hospitals, private practices, billing companies, and insurance carriers.
Certification Options
Common certifications include:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) - American Academy of Professional Coders
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) - American Health Information Management Association
- Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) - AHIMA, more advanced certification
Each has its own requirements and testing process. Choosing the right one depends on your career goals.
Note: While New York does not require certification by law, most employers do not hire without it.
Online vs. In-Person Training in New York
Both formats can prepare you for a billing and coding career:
Online Programs
- Flexible for working adults
- Often self-paced
- Require strong self-discipline
In-Person Programs
- Hands-on instruction
- Peer and instructor interaction
- May include on-site labs and externships
Many schools now offer hybrid programs to blend the benefits.
How to Choose Between Programs
When comparing, ask:
- What is the total tuition and what does it cover?
- Is the program accredited and by which body?
- Will I get help preparing for certification exams?
- Are externships included?
- What is the job placement rate?
Visiting the campus or meeting the program advisor can help clarify your choice.
Final Thoughts
New York offers a wide range of medical billing and coding training programs that can prepare you for national certification and an entry-level career in healthcare administration.
Your main priorities should be accreditation, exam preparation, and support services after graduation.
Here's what to do next:
- Make a list of 3-5 schools that fit your schedule and budget.
- Confirm accreditation and certification preparation details.
- Enroll in the program that best aligns with your career goals.
Once you complete training and earn certification, you'll have the foundation to start a stable healthcare career in New York.
Sources:
[^1] :U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Records Specialists
[^2] :O*NET Online - Medical Records Specialists
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