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Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Iowa 2025

Top medical billing schools in Iowa. Certificate and degree programs in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids. Online and on-campus medical coding training options.

Staff Writers

If you're looking for a solid career path in Iowa that doesn't require a four-year degree, medical billing is definitely worth a look. It's one of those essential background roles that keeps the healthcare system running smoothly. Because people always need medical care, the demand for professionals who manage the financial side of it stays pretty consistent.

Iowa's healthcare sector is a significant part of the state's economy, with major hospital networks and specialized clinics centered around cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Iowa City. This creates a steady need for skilled administrative staff who can accurately handle the complex billing and coding process that happens after every patient visit.

Getting started usually involves completing a focused training program to earn a certification. You can often find these at community colleges or vocational schools, and many offer flexible schedules. The goal is to get you job-ready quickly by teaching you the specific coding systems like ICD-10 and the software used in the industry.

After you're certified, you can find opportunities in hospitals, doctors' offices, or even insurance companies. A lot of these roles are also shifting to remote or hybrid work, which adds a lot of flexibility. The job outlook is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady growth nationwide, and Iowa salaries are competitive for the cost of living.

Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Iowa - Ranked by Value

Iowa's healthcare system, with major players like University of Iowa Health Care and MercyOne, needs skilled medical billers and coders. The state's growing insurance and financial services sectors, coupled with a significant number of smaller, rural hospitals, creates a demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of medical billing and coding. This ranking focuses on programs that offer the best value for Iowans looking to enter or advance in this field, considering factors like cost, program length, and career readiness.

How I Ranked These Medical Billing and Coding Programs

When ranking these medical billing and coding programs, I looked at several key things. First, I considered the cost of the program, including tuition, fees, and estimated expenses for books and supplies. I also looked at graduation rates, as this can be an indicator of student success and program quality. The program's curriculum was also important; I favored programs that covered nationally recognized coding systems and the connection between coding, insurance, and reimbursement. Finally, I considered how well the program prepares students for certification exams, like those offered by the AAPC, which can significantly boost job prospects.

Beyond the numbers, I also considered the unique aspects of Iowa's healthcare landscape. With a large aging population and many rural hospitals, understanding the nuances of billing for different patient demographics and healthcare settings is crucial. I gave extra weight to programs that emphasized practical application and provided a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare revenue cycle, preparing graduates to hit the ground running in Iowa's diverse healthcare environment. I also looked for programs that offered strong support services, like career counseling or job placement assistance, which can be particularly valuable for students entering the field.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Iowa

1. Western Iowa Tech Community College

Western Iowa Tech Community College, located in Sioux City, offers a diploma program designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in medical billing and coding. With a student population of 5071 and a net price of $9,064, it's an accessible option for many Iowans. The Western Iowa Tech program focuses on assigning medical codes for diagnoses and procedures using nationally recognized systems. What I found particularly appealing is the program's emphasis on the connection between coding, medical insurance, and reimbursement systems. This gives students a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare revenue cycle, which is essential for success in the field. The estimated cost of the program is $11,229, which includes tuition, books, and supplies. The 40% graduation rate suggests there's room for improvement in student support, but the program's strengths in curriculum and practical application make it a strong contender. The program's direct connection of coding to insurance and reimbursement is a huge plus for employers, and the curriculum's focus on nationally recognized coding systems is essential for preparing for certification exams.

What These Medical Billing Programs Have in Common

The medical billing programs I looked at in Iowa share a common goal: to prepare students for entry-level positions in the field. They all emphasize the importance of accurate coding and billing practices, and they all cover the basics of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. They also tend to focus on preparing students for certification exams, which are increasingly important for landing a job in the field. Organizations like AHIMA offer certifications that can boost your resume. What I noticed is that the best programs go beyond the basics and provide students with a deeper understanding of the healthcare revenue cycle and the role of medical billing and coding within it.

Which Medical Billing and Coding Program Should You Choose?

Choosing the right medical billing and coding program in Iowa depends on your individual needs and goals. If you're looking for a program that offers a strong foundation in coding and billing practices and prepares you for certification exams, Western Iowa Tech Community College is a solid choice. Keep in mind Iowa's unique healthcare landscape. With a significant aging population, understanding Medicare and Medicaid billing is crucial. Also, given the number of rural hospitals, experience with critical access hospital billing can be a valuable asset. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that medical records specialists and health information technicians, including billers and coders, earn a median annual salary. Remember to factor in the cost of living in different parts of Iowa when considering salary expectations. Ultimately, the best program for you will be the one that fits your budget, learning style, and career aspirations.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Iowa Students

If you're looking for flexibility but still want a solid program, online options are actually pretty great. Most Iowa programs are campus-based, but I found several quality online programs that serve Iowa residents. It's all about finding the right fit for your learning style and career goals!

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) - DMACC Medical Billing and Coding Diploma

What's cool about this diploma program is that it's offered by DMACC, a really well-known and respected community college in Iowa. The program page specifically mentions online classes, so you know it's a legitimate option for distance learning. Plus, getting a diploma from DMACC can really boost your resume when you're job hunting.

2. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) - Medical Billing and Coding

This program from EICC is described as 100% online, which is awesome! It's a complete program from an established Iowa educational institution, so you can be confident in the quality of the education you'll receive. While details are a little limited on the page, the fact that it's directly from EICC's website is a good sign.

3. Northwest Iowa Community College (NWICC) - Medical Coding

This certificate program is a great option if you're looking to get certified. The curriculum is focused on preparing you for professional certifications like those offered by AAPC and AHIMA, which is a huge plus. NWICC is an accredited Iowa community college, so you know you're getting a solid education.

4. Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) - Online Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)

This online certification training course offered through EICC's career training portal includes a voucher, which could help offset the cost of your certification exam. It's a complete program designed to get you ready for the workforce. It might be a non-credit offering potentially run by a third-party partner, but it's still a solid option for focused training.

5. Hawkeye Community College - Certified Professional Medical Coder

This certificate program is fully online and self-paced, which is perfect if you need a flexible schedule. Hawkeye Community College is another reputable Iowa institution, and this program specifically prepares you for the CPC certification. The self-paced format means you can learn at your own speed, which is a huge benefit for many students.

6. Iowa Central Community College (via ed2go) - Medical Coding

This is an online course offered through a partnership between Iowa Central Community College and ed2go. It's a great option if you're looking for a more structured learning experience. While it's hosted on a third-party platform, the fact that it's affiliated with Iowa Central gives it some extra credibility. Plus, it preps you for multiple certifications, including CPC and CCS!

Medical Billing And Coding Programs In Iowa

Western Iowa Tech Community College - Medical Coding Specialist | Dipl

4647 Stone Ave, Sioux City, Iowa 51102-5199 • 5071 students • 40% graduation rate • Diploma
View Program

This diploma program from Western Iowa Tech is designed to get you job-ready by teaching you how to assign medical codes for diagnoses and procedures using nationally recognized systems. What's great is that it doesn't stop there; it also dives into how coding connects with medical insurance and reimbursement systems, giving you a bigger-picture understanding of the healthcare revenue cycle. The goal is to prepare you for the practical, day-to-day work you'll be doing in a medical facility.

Cost:11229
Contact:Fran De Jong | [email protected] | 712.317.3345

What We Love

  • The program directly connects coding to insurance and reimbursement, so you'll understand the 'why' behind your work, which is a huge plus for employers.
  • The curriculum is built around nationally recognized coding systems, which is essential for preparing for certification exams and landing a job.
  • They make it easy to get help by providing direct contact info for a program advisor, suggesting a supportive learning environment.

Key Features

  • Focuses on the practical application of coding systems used in real medical facilities.
  • Provides a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between coding, insurance, and billing.
  • Offers clear, upfront estimated costs for tuition, books, and supplies.

Salary Information for Iowa

💰 Medical Billing and Coding Salary Calculator for Iowa

$45,000/year
~$22/hour • Medical Billing & Coding Professional in Iowa

Medical Billing & Coding Videos

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Medical Billing And Coding In Iowa FAQs

Get answers to common questions about medical billing careers in Iowa

How much do medical billers make in Iowa?

In Iowa, a Medical Biller typically earns around $19.80 per hour https://www.indeed.com/career/medical-biller/salaries/IA. For roles specifically titled Medical Billing Specialist, the average hourly pay is very similar, at $19.27 an hour as of Sep 6, 2025 https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Billing-Specialist-Salary--in-Iowa. This gives you a clear expectation for entry-level or standard billing positions in the state.

It's worth noting that medical billing often goes hand-in-hand with medical coding. A Medical Coding Specialist in Iowa generally commands a higher hourly rate, averaging $26.42 an hour https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Medical-Coding-Specialist-Salary--in-Iowa. The pay difference usually reflects the added complexity or certification required for coding, making it a distinct but related career path within the healthcare administration field.

What are the certification requirements for medical billing in Iowa?

In Iowa, medical billing specialists are not licensed by the state. However, holding third-party professional certifications is very common, and many employers expect you to have these credentials to demonstrate your proficiency HealthcarePathway. The focus is on earning a recognized professional certification rather than obtaining a state-issued license, which is a key distinction.

You can prepare for these certifications through various programs offered by Iowa community colleges. For example, Hawkeye Community College offers training for the Certified Professional Medical Coder (CPMC) certification Hawkeye Community College. Similarly, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges provide programs that often include a voucher for a professional medical billing and coding certification exam EICC Career Training.

These diploma and certificate programs at institutions like DMACC prepare you for the necessary professional-level credentials by teaching you coding guidelines, compliance rules, and third-party payer requirements DMACC. Essentially, you'll complete a specialized educational program and then pass a recognized certification exam to qualify for most medical billing roles in Iowa.

How long does it take to become a medical biller in Iowa?

To become a medical biller in Iowa, you can typically complete a diploma program in about three semesters. For example, the DMACC Medical Billing and Coding program is designed to be finished in this timeframe, offering flexible options with daytime, nighttime, and online classes. This structured approach allows you to gain the necessary qualifications efficiently.

Beyond diplomas, you'll also find certificate programs available in Iowa, like the Medical Billing Certificate from SCC Iowa, which may also have options for tuition-free enrollment for eligible Iowans. Many training options, including those through Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and Hawkeye Community College, emphasize flexible online learning. Once you're trained, medical billers in Iowa can expect to make around $22.83 per hour.

Can I work from home as a medical biller in Iowa?

Yes, you can absolutely work from home as a medical biller in Iowa. There are many remote opportunities available in the state. You can find hundreds of remote healthcare billing jobs from various companies currently hiring, with listings totaling over 500 positions browse 506 Iowa remote healthcare billing jobs. Platforms like Indeed also list numerous remote billing roles, such as Medical Billing Specialist and Claims Examiner, across Iowa see remote billing jobs.

The pay for these remote roles in Iowa shows a significant range. Many remote healthcare billing positions list hourly rates from $16 to $69 explore salary ranges. For specific roles like a remote Billing Coordinator III in Des Moines, you might see compensation around $20 to $22 per hour check Des Moines job listings. These figures indicate that remote medical billing in Iowa can be a viable career path with competitive pay.

What is the job outlook for medical billers in Iowa?

The job outlook for medical billers in Iowa appears solid. Employment for related healthcare information roles, such as medical records specialists and health information technologists, is projected to grow significantly, ranging from 7% to 15% between 2024 and 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Iowa's healthcare system is consistently expanding, creating heightened demand for medical billers and coders, influenced by demographic changes and evolving insurance rules research.com/careers/how-to-become-a-medical-biller-and-coder-in-iowa.

As a Medical Billing Specialist, you can expect a median annual salary of around $56,000 per year indianhills.edu/academics/health/medical-coding.php. This reflects a steady, technical role critical to healthcare operations. The work involves processing patient files, managing medical information, and ensuring accurate billing and coding, which remains a consistent need within the growing healthcare sector in Iowa.

How much does medical billing school cost in Iowa?

In Iowa, the cost for medical billing school can vary depending on the program and institution. An online medical billing and coding program from Eastern Iowa Community College, which includes a voucher for the professional certification exam, has a list price of $3,890.00, with a potential saving of $595.00 EICC Online Medical Billing and Coding.

If you're considering a broader training program that incorporates medical billing, the University of Iowa Health Care offers a Medical Assistant Training Program. This program, which includes medical billing and coding as part of its curriculum, has a program fee of $7500, which covers a non-refundable seat fee University of Iowa Health Care Medical Assistant Program.

When you're looking at program costs, make sure to understand what's included. Some programs bundle certification exam fees, while others require you to pay those separately. Always check for any additional costs like textbooks or supplies that might not be part of the advertised program fee.