Medical Coding and Billing in Montana

The health care industry of Montana is unique in many days. Unfortunately for health care institutions, that also means that they often have to find new and untested ways to fix problems within the industry. In Montana, a large percentage of residents live very far from their nearest care providers. In many of these areas, poverty is a chronic issue. However, in keeping up with Affordable Care Act standards and improving the quality of life for residents, legislators must still find a way to make medical care accessible for residents.

One of the ways that Montana is tackling this problem is through an expanded health insurance program. By the end of 2016, the state hopes to cover an additional 78,000 residents under its insurance program (Live Insurance News, 2015).

With the expansion of this program comes a bigger demand for health care professionals, particularly those who work in finance. If you study medical coding and billing, you can find out how to make sure that services are paid for and uphold federal standards.

Take the first step in this new career and check out our list of medical coding and billing programs in Montana.

What to Expect in Montana Medical Coding and Billing Training

Coding and billing is not a licensed profession in Montana, setting it apart from health care professions like nursing, occupational therapy, and respiratory therapy. This means that there’s quite a bit of variability in programs. Depending on the school you decide to attend, you may graduate in as little as six months or as much as two years.

Whether you decide on a diploma, certificate, or Associate’s degree, you should take many of these same courses. If you want to stay in this industry for the long haul, consider choosing a program that prepares you for certification in this field. Your curriculum may include common courses like Professional Medical Coding, Facility Billing and Reimbursement, Principles and Practices of Medical Billing, and Fundamentals of Billing Reimbursement. If you attend an in-person program, you may get the chance to gain real work experience at local institutions.

Many students make financial aid a big part of their school choice. As you contact local schools and learn about their course offerings, you may also want to inquire about their financial aid programs. Local organizations may have different options, such as the Montana Health Care Association.

Working as a Medical Billing and Coding Professional in Montana

As noted earlier, some programs focus on preparing students for certification in this field. The largest and most respected certification organization in the United States is AAPC. After you go through their application and testing process, you may earn certification in coding, billing, or specialty coding and billing. This may make it easier for employers to set your application and qualifications apart from those of other applicants.

In Montana, the demand for coding and billing specialists is particularly strong. Between 2012 and 2022, O*Net reports an expected 22% boost in job openings (2015). This job growth statistic is on par with the national average (O*Net, 2015).

In Montana, the median income for a medical records technician is $30,800 per year (O*Net, 2015). Since the health care worker shortage seems to primarily affect rural communities in Montana, you may enjoy more employment benefits if you are willing to work in an underserved area.

The changes affecting the health care industry have created an environment that is perfect for those who are ready to make a career change. If this describes you, find out more now by reaching out to medical coding and billing programs in Montana.

Montana

Charter College
Campus Locations in: Billings, MT / Missoula, MT
Matching Programs: Certificate – Medical Assistant
Program Types Offered: Certificate

Flathead Valley Community College
Campus Locations in: Kalispell, MT
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant Program
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree
Programmatic Accreditation: CAAHEP

Montana State University-Billings
Campus Locations in: Billings, MT
Matching Programs: Medical Assistant Program
Program Types Offered: Associate Degree
Programmatic Accreditation: CAAHEP