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If you want to start a medical billing and coding career in Oregon, your first step is getting the right training. Employers look for candidates who know current coding systems, understand insurance claim processes, and can work within HIPAA privacy rules.
In Oregon, you don't need a state license to work in medical billing and coding. However, most employers prefer or require industry certification, such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) from AHIMA . Choosing the right school can prepare you for these exams and help you get hired faster.
How to Choose a Medical Billing and Coding School in Oregon
When comparing programs, look for:
- Accreditation - Check if the school is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or regional college accreditation.
- Certification exam prep - Make sure the curriculum prepares you for AAPC or AHIMA certification exams.
- Flexible learning options - Many Oregon schools offer online or evening classes for working students.
- Externship opportunities - Hands-on experience in a medical office or hospital can make you more competitive.
- Job placement support - Some schools have employer connections or career services.
Tip: Even if a program is 100% online, confirm it includes practice with current versions of ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.
Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Oregon
Here are some of the top training options to consider. Contact each school for current tuition, schedules, and admission requirements.
1. Portland Community College (PCC)
- Program: Medical Coding (Certificate)
- Format: Online with instructor support
- Length: 1-1.5 years
- Highlights: Offers preparation for the CPC exam, flexible scheduling, and access to online coding tools.
Website: https://www.pcc.edu
- Program: Medical Office Assistant - Coding Assistant Certificate
- Format: Hybrid (online and in-person)
- Length: About 1 year
- Highlights: Includes training in billing software, anatomy and physiology, and healthcare law.
Website: https://www.lanecc.edu
3. Central Oregon Community College (COCC)
- Program: Medical Office Specialist - Health Information
- Format: In-person and online
- Length: Certificate or associate degree paths
- Highlights: Offers internship opportunities and hands-on lab practice with electronic health record (EHR) systems.
Website: https://www.cocc.edu
4. Pioneer Pacific College
- Program: Medical Billing and Coding Diploma
- Format: In-person or online
- Length: Around 10 months
- Highlights: Focused program designed to prepare graduates for immediate entry-level employment and certification testing.
Website: https://www.pioneerpacific.edu
- Program: Medical Coding
- Format: Online distance learning
- Length: 1 year
- Highlights: Prepares students for the CCA (AHIMA) or CPC (AAPC) certifications.
Website: https://www.linnbenton.edu
Oregon Medical Billing and Coding Certification
While Oregon does not require licensing, national certification shows employers you meet industry standards. Common options include:
| Certification | Issuing Organization | Focus |
| CPC | AAPC - American Academy of Professional Coders | Outpatient coding |
| CCA | AHIMA - American Health Information Management Association | Entry-level coding across settings |
| CCS | AHIMA | Mastery-level coding for hospitals |
You can take these exams after completing training. Some schools include the exam fee in tuition.
Steps to Get Started in Oregon
- Research schools - Start with community colleges, private trade schools, and online programs listed above.
- Confirm accreditation - This ensures your training meets industry standards.
- Apply for enrollment - Some programs have prerequisites like keyboarding skills or basic anatomy courses.
- Complete your training - Focus on accuracy, attention to detail, and understanding billing procedures.
- Prepare for certification - Use study guides, online practice exams, and your course materials.
- Apply for jobs - Look at hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and specialty practices.
Note: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical records specialists, including billing and coding, is expected to grow faster than average through 2032 .
Online vs. In-Person Programs
Both formats can prepare you for the job, but they come with tradeoffs.
Online Advantages:
- Flexible schedules
- Learn from anywhere in Oregon
- Often more self-paced
In-Person Advantages:
- Face-to-face instruction
- Hands-on practice with billing software
- Easier networking and connections
Choose the one that fits your learning style and schedule.
Summary and Next Steps
The best medical billing and coding school for you depends on your schedule, budget, and career goals. In Oregon, you have solid choices ranging from local community colleges to fully online programs. Look for accredited training that covers coding systems, billing procedures, and HIPAA compliance - and sets you up for national certification.
Here's what to do now:
- Contact at least two schools from the list above.
- Ask about class start dates, tuition, and certification results.
- Compare flexibility, externship opportunities, and exam prep support.
Getting your medical billing and coding training is one of the fastest ways to enter a growing healthcare career in Oregon. The right school will help you build the skills, earn certification, and start working in under two years.
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