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Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Kentucky 2025

Top medical billing schools in Kentucky. Certificate and degree programs in Louisville, Lexington. Online and on-campus training options available.

Staff Writers

Ever thought about getting into healthcare but without the hands-on patient care? Medical billing is one of those essential, behind-the-scenes jobs that keeps hospitals and clinics running smoothly. In Kentucky, it’s a particularly steady field because the healthcare industry is so established and isn't really affected by economic ups and downs.

Kentucky's healthcare sector is a major employer, especially with the large hospital systems in Louisville and Lexington, plus growing medical communities in places like Bowling Green, Owensboro, and Covington. All of these facilities, from huge hospitals to small private practices, rely on skilled people to manage the complex process of billing and insurance claims. It's the financial backbone of the entire local healthcare system.

Getting into the field typically involves completing a certification program, which can often be done in less than a year. These programs are designed to teach you the specific coding languages, like ICD-10, and the billing software that medical offices use every day. You can find flexible training options across the state that directly prepare you to pass a national certification exam.

After you're certified, you can find opportunities in hospitals, specialized clinics, or third-party billing companies. A big advantage is that many of these roles now offer remote or hybrid work arrangements, giving you more flexibility. The career outlook is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting consistent job growth nationally, and Kentucky's need for qualified billers aligns with that trend.

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

Kentucky's healthcare system, anchored by major players like Norton Healthcare and UK HealthCare, needs skilled medical billers and coders. With a significant manufacturing and logistics sector, Kentucky understands the importance of efficient processes, and that extends to healthcare administration. Plus, given the state's challenges with chronic diseases and the health disparities in rural Appalachia, accurate and timely billing is crucial for ensuring healthcare providers can continue to serve their communities. Getting the right training is the first step, so I've researched the best medical billing and coding programs in Kentucky to help you make an informed decision.

How I Ranked These Medical Billing and Coding Programs

When ranking these programs, I focused on what gives you the best value for your money and time. That means looking at factors like tuition costs (especially important in a state with a lower cost of living like Kentucky), graduation rates, and whether the program prepares you for professional certifications. A program that sets you up to pass the AAPC certification exam, for instance, gets a big boost in my book. I also considered program format (online vs. in-person) and the availability of different degree or certificate options to fit various career goals.

Beyond the numbers, I also looked at the program's specific features. Does it offer career services to help you find a job after graduation? Does the curriculum cover the essential coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT? Does the school have strong ties to local healthcare employers? These "intangibles" can make a big difference in your overall learning experience and job prospects, especially in Kentucky's unique healthcare landscape. I also gave preference to programs with video resources available, as it shows the school is invested in showcasing their offerings.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Kentucky

1. Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) in Bowling Green takes the top spot because of its flexibility and affordability. They offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, a diploma, and several certificate options, allowing you to tailor your education to your specific career goals. What I found especially appealing is that SKYCTC advertises the "lowest tuition in Kentucky" and mentions the "Work Ready KY Scholarship," which could potentially cover tuition costs for eligible students. Plus, the medical information technology program has a dedicated contact person, Professor Amy Norrod, making it easy to get your questions answered. With a graduation rate of 52% and a net price of $6,532, SKYCTC offers a solid education at a great value.

2. Jefferson Community and Technical College

Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) in Louisville is another excellent option, particularly if you're looking for a focused, career-oriented program. Their certificate program is designed to prepare you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, a key credential for medical billers and coders. The program runs on a Fall-to-Spring semester schedule, providing a clear timeline for completion. JCTC's medical coding and reimbursement specialist program focuses on physician-based billing and coding, which is a valuable specialization. With a net price of $8,102, it's also quite affordable. The program also has a video resource, which is a nice bonus.

3. Sullivan University

Sullivan University, located in Louisville, offers a fully online Medical Coding Certificate that can be completed in just 9 months. This program is a good choice if you need a flexible learning environment and want to quickly gain the skills needed for a career in medical coding. I noticed that the curriculum is aligned with CAHIIM standards, which signals a commitment to quality. The medical coding certificate program also includes a dedicated review course to help you prepare for your certification exam. However, with a net price of $22,766, it's the most expensive option on this list, so you'll want to carefully consider your budget.

4. ATA College

ATA College, also in Louisville, offers both a 12-month diploma and a 17-month Associate Degree in medical coding. The program is fully online and designed to prepare you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam. Graduates also become members of the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC), providing a valuable networking opportunity. The medical coding program covers essential coding systems and includes career services to assist with job placement. However, with a net price of $26,483 and a graduation rate of 33%, it's the riskiest investment on this list.

What These Medical Billing Programs Have in Common

All four programs aim to equip you with the skills to translate medical documentation into accurate codes for billing and reimbursement. They all cover the core coding systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS. A big selling point for most of them is the focus on preparing you for professional certifications, especially the CPC exam. Whether it's SKYCTC's multiple pathways or Sullivan's CAHIIM alignment, they all recognize the importance of industry-recognized credentials. Also, the programs are either located in or easily accessible to residents of Kentucky's major cities: Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green.

Which Medical Billing and Coding Program Should You Choose?

If you're looking for the most affordable and flexible option, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College is a great choice, especially with the potential for tuition assistance through the Work Ready KY Scholarship. If you want a focused program specifically designed to prepare you for the CPC exam, Jefferson Community and Technical College is a solid bet. Sullivan University offers a convenient online format, but be prepared for a higher tuition cost. While ATA College also offers online learning and CPC prep, its higher price and lower graduation rate make it a riskier investment. Ultimately, the best program for you depends on your individual circumstances, budget, and career goals. Remember to also research organizations like AHIMA to understand the broader landscape of health information management. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical records specialists is expected to grow, so investing in the right training can lead to a rewarding career in Kentucky's healthcare industry.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Kentucky Students

If you're looking for flexibility but still want a solid program, online options are actually pretty great. While many Kentucky programs have a campus component, I found several quality online programs that serve Kentucky residents. Let's dive into some of the best!

1. Eastern Kentucky University - Online Medical Billing and Coding (Voucher Included)

What's awesome about this program is that it's offered through EKU's career training portal, which gives it a lot of credibility right off the bat. Plus, the fact that it includes a certification voucher suggests it's a really complete, career-focused program designed to get you certified and working. That's a huge plus!

2. Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) - Medical Coding - Certificate

This is a full certificate program from the state's official community college system, so you know it's a solid option. While the description notes that it "may be available completely online," the fact that it prepares you for the CPC certification and offers clinical experience is a major win. It's worth checking with KCTCS to confirm the online availability in your area.

3. Sullivan University - Medical Coding Certificate

Sullivan University, a well-known Kentucky institution, offers a fully online Medical Coding Certificate program. This is a comprehensive, for-credit academic program, which means it could potentially transfer to further education down the line. If you're looking for a more traditional academic route, this is a great choice.

4. Kentucky Wesleyan College - Online Medical Billing and Coding Certification Prep

Kentucky Wesleyan partners with EKU to offer this 100% online certification prep course. What I noticed is that it prepares you for certifications from both AAPC and AHIMA, which could make you a more versatile candidate when you're job hunting. Plus, it includes a voucher to cover the cost of the exam!

5. US Career Institute - Kentucky Online Medical Coding & Billing Program

If you want to get into the workforce ASAP, the US Career Institute's program is worth a look. They specifically market this program to Kentucky residents, and it's designed to be completed in as little as 5 months. They also include the cost of your CBCS certification exam, study guide, and practice test, which is a nice perk.

6. Campbellsville University - Medical Coding Certificate

Campbellsville University offers a Medical Coding Certificate program that is fully online. This program prepares you for the CPC certification, which is a highly recognized credential in the field. While details are limited, it's worth investigating if you're looking for a program from a reputable Kentucky university.

Medical Billing And Coding Programs In Kentucky

ATA College - Online Medical Coding Programs

10200 Linn Station Rd Ste 125, Louisville, Kentucky 40223 • 337 students • 33% graduation rate • Associate Degree or Diploma
View Program

This is a fully online program designed to get you into the business side of healthcare. You can choose a faster 12-month diploma or a more comprehensive 17-month Associate Degree. The curriculum focuses on the essential skills for the job, covering ICD-10-CM, HCPCS, and CPT coding to prepare you for a career in places like doctor's offices, hospitals, or insurance companies.

Duration:12 months for the Diploma or 17 months for the Associate Degree
Format:Online
Contact:Specific contact information wasn't available in the data, but the program website has a 'Request Information' form you can fill out.

What We Love

  • The program is laser-focused on getting you certified, specifically preparing you to sit for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam.
  • You get a great head start on networking, as graduates become members of the American Association of Professional Coders (AAPC).
  • It's flexible—you can choose between a quicker diploma or a full associate degree, depending on your career goals.

Key Features

  • Offers both a 12-month Diploma and a 17-month Associate Degree option.
  • Program is delivered entirely online.
  • Curriculum covers the key coding systems: ICD-10-CM, Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS), and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT).

Jefferson Community and Technical College - Medical Coding and Reimbursement Specialist

109 East Broadway, Louisville, Kentucky 40202 • 12574 students • 31% graduation rate • Certificate
View Program

This program at JCTC gets you ready for a career in a doctor's office or clinic, focusing on the billing and coding side of things. You'll learn how to read patient charts, assign the right medical codes for treatments and diagnoses, and prepare insurance claims to make sure the doctor's office gets paid.

Duration:2 Semesters (Fall to Spring)
Contact:Kristi Couch, Program Coordinator | [email protected] | (502) 213-2221

What We Love

  • A huge plus is that the program is specifically designed to prepare you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, which is a key certification employers look for.
  • The program has a clear, focused timeline, starting in the Fall and finishing the following Spring, which makes planning your education straightforward.
  • You'll learn the exact skills needed for the job, like reading medical records, assigning codes, and troubleshooting payment issues.

Key Features

  • Prepares students to sit for the AAPC's Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam upon graduation.
  • Specializes in physician-based billing and coding functions.
  • Program runs on a Fall-to-Spring semester schedule once prerequisites are met.

Program Video

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College - Medical Information Technology

1845 Loop Dr, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42101-3601 • 5084 students • 52% graduation rate • Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Diploma, and Certificate options
View Program

This program is designed for students who are interested in the healthcare field but prefer the administrative and technology side over direct patient care. You'll learn the skills needed to work in an administrative role in a medical office, clinic, or hospital, supporting other healthcare professionals.

Duration:Up to 2 years for an Associate degree (full-time)
Contact:Professor Amy Norrod | [email protected] | (270) 901-1031

What We Love

  • You have a ton of options! You can go for a full two-year Associate degree or pick from several shorter certificate programs in specialized areas like Medical Coding or Electronic Health Records.
  • The program is very upfront about helping with costs, mentioning they have the 'lowest tuition in Kentucky' and highlighting the 'Work Ready KY Scholarship' which could mean free tuition for those who qualify.
  • It's great that they provide a direct contact person, Professor Amy Norrod, so you can easily reach out with specific questions about the program.

Key Features

  • Offers multiple tracks for the Associate degree: Medical Administrative, Medical Coding, and Medical Office Management.
  • Provides a wide range of career-focused certificates, including Medical Coding, Electronic Health Records Specialist, and Hospital Admissions Specialist.
  • Clear academic standards are set for progression, requiring a 'C' or better in each course to continue in the program.

Program Video

Sullivan University - Medical Coding Certification

3101 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, Kentucky 40205 • 2855 students • 30% graduation rate • Certificate
View Program

Sullivan University offers a 9-month, fully online Medical Coding Certificate designed to prepare you for the healthcare industry. The program focuses on translating medical documentation into the correct diagnostic and procedural codes for billing and reimbursement. It's built to meet the standards of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and prepares you for official certification.

Duration:9 months
Format:Online

What We Love

  • The curriculum is aligned with CAHIIM standards, which is a big sign of a quality program in this field.
  • They emphasize small classes, so you're likely to get more personalized attention from your instructors.
  • The program is specifically designed to prepare you for official medical coding certifications, which is what employers look for.

Key Features

  • The program is offered entirely online, offering a lot of flexibility for students.
  • Covers essential coding systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and ICD-10-PCS.
  • The curriculum provides a strong foundation with courses in pathophysiology, pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology.

Salary Information for Kentucky

💰 Medical Billing and Coding Salary Calculator for Kentucky

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

Medical Billing & Coding Videos

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Medical Billing And Coding In Kentucky FAQs

Get answers to common questions about medical billing careers in Kentucky

How much do medical billers make in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, medical billers generally earn an average of around $18.05 per hour Indeed. It's common to see roles that combine both medical billing and coding, which can sometimes impact salary figures.

For positions encompassing both medical billing and coding responsibilities, the average hourly wage in Kentucky tends to be higher. You could see rates around $30 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $62,115.00 Nurse.org. Keep in mind that specific pay rates can fluctuate depending on your experience, the employer, and your exact duties within the role.

What are the certification requirements for medical billing in Kentucky?

Kentucky does not appear to have a specific state-level licensure or certification mandated for medical billers to practice within the state, unlike roles such as Community Health Workers which have statutory requirements outlined in KRS 309.460, 309.462, and 309.464 Office of Community Health Workers. Instead, the focus for medical billing professionals in Kentucky is on completing specialized training that leads to national certifications.

To become a certified medical billing specialist, you generally enroll in a dedicated online or in-person training program. Institutions like Western Kentucky University Online Medical Billing and Coding and Kentucky Wesleyan College Online Medical Billing and Coding Certification Prep offer courses designed to prepare you for industry-recognized certification exams. These programs equip you with the skills needed to handle claims, understand payer rules, and manage patient accounts.

While specific state-mandated certification is not listed, training is key for employment. For those working in this field, medical billers in Kentucky can expect to make around $22.83 per hour. This figure reflects the typical earnings for professionals who have completed certification preparation and entered the field, often through programs similar to those at Eastern Kentucky University Community Education.

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

To become a medical biller in Kentucky, you'll typically complete a specialized training program. Institutions like Eastern Kentucky University https://www.eku.edu/community-education/ and Western Kentucky University https://careertraining.wku.edu/training-programs/medical-billing-coding-voucher-included/ offer medical billing and coding courses. These are often non-credit or career training programs, focusing on practical skills for the healthcare industry.

While the exact duration of these specific programs isn't provided, they are structured to prepare you for industry certification in medical billing and coding. This means they are generally designed for efficient skill acquisition, allowing you to enter the field relatively quickly after completion. The goal is to equip you with the technical knowledge needed for this in-demand healthcare role.

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

Yes, you can absolutely work from home as a medical biller in Kentucky. There are numerous remote opportunities available across the state, with companies actively hiring for these positions. You'll find over 145 remote medical billing job openings in Kentucky [Indeed remote KY jobs], indicating a robust and flexible market for work-from-home roles.

Regarding compensation, remote medical billing positions in Kentucky typically pay between $15 and $50 per hour. For roles specifically in Louisville, you might find rates ranging from $16 to $52 per hour [ZipRecruiter remote KY and Louisville jobs]. Companies are actively seeking skilled individuals for these technical healthcare positions.

What is the job outlook for medical billers in Kentucky?

The job outlook for medical billers in Kentucky appears stable, with the state noted for a high concentration of these positions uscareerinstitute.edu/blog. This indicates a consistent demand for skilled professionals in medical information technology, including billing, throughout Kentucky's healthcare sector.

Specifically within Kentucky, the number of jobs in this field is projected to reach 4,760 by 2032 uscareerinstitute.edu/online-medical-coding-and-billing-school/kentucky. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that approximately 15,000 new jobs for medical billers and coders are expected annually on average over the coming decade.

Regarding compensation, the median salary for medical billers in Kentucky is reported to be $48,020 per year uscareerinstitute.edu/online-medical-coding-and-billing-school/kentucky. This represents a competitive income for a technical role in the healthcare industry, making it a viable career path for those entering the field.

How much does medical billing school cost in Kentucky?

Medical billing school costs in Kentucky can vary depending on the institution and program type. Western Kentucky University offers an online Medical Billing and Coding certification course for $3,295.00 USD Western Kentucky University Online Medical Billing and Coding. This price generally covers the training to prepare you for industry certification exams.

Other educational institutions, such as Eastern Kentucky University, also provide Medical Billing and Coding training programs through their Community Education department Eastern Kentucky University Community Education. While specific costs for their programs aren't listed in the available information, it indicates various options are typically available beyond fully online courses.

For those looking into potentially lower-cost education, West Kentucky Community and Technical College (WKCTC) highlights having the "lowest tuition in Kentucky" and offers financial aid for programs like Medical Information Technology West Kentucky Community and Technical College Medical Information Technology. However, a specific price for a dedicated medical billing program at WKCTC isn't detailed in these results.