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If you want a healthcare career without spending years in medical school, medical billing and coding is worth a close look.
This job focuses on handling patient records, insurance claims, and medical codes for diagnoses and procedures.
In most cases, you can complete training in less than two years and start work once you earn certification.
Here's what you need to know about the best training programs in Oklahoma.
What Medical Billing and Coding Involves
Medical billing and coding specialists review medical records, assign standard codes, and submit claims to insurance companies.
The role requires strong attention to detail and knowledge of healthcare regulations.
These workers often:
- Read doctors' notes and patient charts
- Assign correct ICD, CPT, or HCPCS codes
- Prepare insurance forms and verify patient data
- Work in clinics, hospitals, or remote settings
You usually need postsecondary training and certification to work in the field.
Oklahoma does not require a state license for medical billing and coding specialists, but most employers require national certification through organizations like AAPC or AHIMA.
Steps to Start Your Career in Oklahoma
Follow these steps to get job-ready:
- Choose a training program - Look for an accredited school with prep for national certifications.
- Complete coursework - Learn medical terminology, coding systems, healthcare law, and billing software.
- Apply for certification - Most graduates earn the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential.
- Gain experience - Some schools arrange externships with local hospitals or clinics.
- Stay current - Continuing education is needed to keep your certification valid.
Program Length Overview
Training time varies depending on the program you choose.
| Type of Program | Typical Length |
| Certificate or Diploma | 9-12 months |
| Associate Degree | 18-24 months |
| Accelerated Online Certificate | 6-9 months |
If you want to start working as soon as possible, a certificate program is the fastest route.
Top Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Oklahoma
Here are some well-regarded options in the state. Contact each school for admission requirements and tuition details.
1. Francis Tuttle Technology Center - Oklahoma City
- Offers a Medical Office Technology program with a coding and billing track
- Includes prep for CPC certification
- Options for full-time or part-time study
- Website: https://www.francistuttle.edu/
2. Tulsa Technology Center - Tulsa
- Medical Coding Specialist program
- Covers ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding
- Day and evening classes offered
- Website: https://tulsatech.edu/
3. Moore Norman Technology Center - Norman
- Medical Coding and Billing pathway under Health Careers
- Provides internship opportunities with local healthcare providers
- Website: https://www.mntc.edu/
- Associates in Applied Science in Medical Office Administration with Coding emphasis
- Includes more in-depth business and technology training
- Prepares for multiple certification exams
- Website: https://www.occc.edu/
5. CareerTech Centers Across Oklahoma
Many Oklahoma CareerTech campuses offer medical billing and coding or closely related health information programs.
Check the Oklahoma CareerTech directory for locations and details.
6. Rose State College - Midwest City
- Offers a Health Information Management degree and certificate tracks
- CAHIIM-accredited program with pathways to RHIT or CCA credentialing
- Website: https://www.rose.edu/
Choosing the Right Program
When picking a school, keep these factors in mind:
- Accreditation - Look for programs recognized by CAHIIM or other credible bodies
- Certification preparation - Make sure the curriculum matches CPC or CCA exam content
- Externships - Real-world experience is important for job placement
- Class format - Consider if you need evening, online, or full-time study options
- Location and cost - Factor in commute or living expenses
Certification Options Worth Knowing
Two main certifications dominate the field:
- CPC (Certified Professional Coder) - Offered by AAPC, focuses on physician-based coding
- CCA (Certified Coding Associate) - Offered by AHIMA, known for entry-level hospital and clinic coding
After gaining work experience, you can pursue advanced credentials for higher specialization.
Career Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for health information roles through 2032.
Healthcare facilities in Oklahoma regularly need trained coders and billers to handle patient records and insurance claims efficiently.
Final Tips Before You Start
- Visit campus or attend an online info session before enrolling
- Ask about job placement rates for recent graduates
- Verify course content matches the latest ICD, CPT, and HCPCS standards
- Plan for certification exam fees in your education budget
Starting in this field is straightforward if you choose the right program and stay committed to learning.
Once you finish training and pass your certification exam, you can step into a healthcare role that offers stability and clear growth potential.
Next step: Contact at least two schools from the list above, compare program details, and choose the one that best fits your schedule and career goals.
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