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Best Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Oregon 2025

Top medical billing schools in Oregon. Certificate and degree programs in Portland. Online and on-campus medical coding training options available.

Staff Writers

If you've ever thought about getting into healthcare in Oregon but the clinical side isn't your thing, medical billing is definitely worth a look. It’s one of those essential, behind-the-scenes roles that keeps the entire system running smoothly. You're basically the person who makes sure clinics and hospitals can actually operate by managing the flow of money.

The healthcare industry is a major employer across the state, from the big hospital networks in Portland and Hillsboro to community clinics in Eugene and Salem. This consistent growth, driven by Oregon's expanding population, means there's a steady need for skilled people to manage the financial side of patient care. Every patient visit generates a claim, and someone has to process it correctly.

Getting into the field typically involves completing a focused certificate program, which are available at community colleges and vocational schools throughout Oregon, as well as online. These programs are designed to get you job-ready quickly, preparing you for industry-standard certification exams like the CBCS or CPB. Having that certification is what most employers look for on a resume.

As for the job itself, the outlook is solid, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady growth for medical records specialists nationwide. A huge plus is that many Oregon employers now offer remote or hybrid positions, giving you a lot of flexibility in where you work. It's a stable career with competitive pay where you can grow without spending years in school.

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

Oregon's healthcare sector is a mix of big players like Providence and OHSU, alongside a lot of smaller clinics and practices, especially outside of Portland. That means there's a consistent need for skilled medical billers and coders who can keep the financial side of healthcare running smoothly. With Oregon's high cost of living, especially in cities like Portland and Salem, finding an affordable and effective training program is key to launching a successful career in this field.

How I Ranked These Medical Billing and Coding Programs

When ranking these medical billing and coding programs in Oregon, I focused on what gives you the best bang for your buck. That means looking at tuition costs, program length, and what kind of career support they offer. A shorter, more affordable program that gets you ready for a nationally recognized certification is going to rank higher than a longer, more expensive one that doesn't necessarily lead to better job prospects. I also considered the flexibility of the program, since many people in Oregon are juggling work, family, and other commitments.

Beyond the hard numbers, I also looked at things like accreditation and industry connections. A program accredited by an organization like the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) signals a certain level of quality. And programs that have strong relationships with local healthcare employers can give you a leg up when it comes to internships and job placement. Finally, I considered whether the program prepares you for specific certifications, like the AAPC certification, which can significantly boost your earning potential.

Top Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Oregon

1. Clackamas Community College

Clackamas Community College's Medical Billing and Coding Certificate is a solid choice if you want to get into the field quickly and affordably. The program costs around $6,338 and can be completed in just one year. What I like is the flexibility – they offer online and evening classes, which is great if you're working or have other commitments. Plus, they focus on preparing you for national certification exams, which employers really value. Located in Oregon City, it's accessible to many in the Portland metro area.

2. Lane Community College

Lane Community College, located in Eugene, offers both a 1-year certificate and a 2-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Health Information Management. Check out Lane Community College's Health Information Management program. The estimated cost is between $19,401 - $50,250. The big plus here is that the program is fully online and accredited by CAHIIM, which is a major stamp of approval. They also have prep classes specifically designed to help you pass the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam. This is a good option if you're looking for a more comprehensive education and a higher-level certification.

3. Linn-Benton Community College

Linn-Benton Community College, in Albany, offers a one-year certificate program in coding and reimbursement. Their Coding Reimbursement Specialist program focuses on training you to translate medical information into the codes used for billing. What I found interesting is their emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in this field. They also have a good track record of placing graduates in jobs across multiple states. While the net price is around $10,759, the strong job placement rate makes it a worthwhile investment.

4. Umpqua Community College

Umpqua Community College in Roseburg offers a two-year Associate Degree in Medical Office Administration. The Healthcare Administration program is designed to prepare you for a range of support roles in medical offices. While it's not solely focused on billing and coding, it does provide a broader foundation in healthcare administration. They also partner with ed2go to offer online ICD-10 medical coding training. This might be a good fit if you're looking for a more general healthcare administration degree with some exposure to coding.

What These Medical Billing Programs Have in Common

All of these programs aim to equip you with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of medical billing and coding. They all touch on essential coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and they all emphasize the importance of accuracy and attention to detail. Many also recognize the value of professional certification, with some programs directly preparing you for exams like the RHIT or the AAPC certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical secretaries and administrative assistants (which includes medical billing and coding roles) is around $41,000, so getting the right training can definitely pay off.

Which Medical Billing and Coding Program Should You Choose?

If you're looking for the fastest and most affordable route into medical billing and coding in Oregon, Clackamas Community College is a great option. If you want a more comprehensive education and are aiming for a higher-level certification like the RHIT, Lane Community College's online program is worth considering. Linn-Benton offers a solid certificate with a focus on critical thinking, while Umpqua Community College provides a broader foundation in healthcare administration. Consider your budget, your career goals, and your learning style when making your decision. Also, remember to research organizations like AHIMA to learn more about the industry standards.

Top Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Oregon Students

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

1. Mt. Hood Community College - Billing and Coding Certificate

What's cool about this program is that it's a full certificate program offered entirely online by Mt. Hood Community College. That means you get the structure and support of a community college, but with the convenience of learning from anywhere. While details are limited on the exact curriculum online, the fact that it's a complete certificate makes it a strong option.

2. Chemeketa Community College - Health Information Management

This is a fantastic option if you want a more comprehensive education. Chemeketa's Health Information Management certificate is a 9-month program that you can complete online. Plus, it prepares you for certifications from both AAPC and CPC, which is a huge plus when you're looking for a job. You'll gain skills in medical coding and billing, making you a more versatile candidate.

3. Clackamas Community College - Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

Clackamas Community College also offers a Medical Billing and Coding Certificate with online classes available. I found that the program prepares you for AAPC and CPC certifications, which are industry-recognized credentials. The cost is something to consider, but the fact that it's a full certificate program from an accredited Oregon community college makes it a solid choice.

4. Portland Community College - Professional Medical Coding

If you want to get into the workforce ASAP, Portland Community College's Professional Medical Coding courses might be a good fit. These are online courses designed to prepare you for the AAPC National Coding Certification. What I noticed is that they focus specifically on certification prep, which can be really helpful if you already have some background knowledge or are a quick learner.

5. Oregon State University - Online Medical Billing and Coding Certification Prep

That's awesome! Oregon State University offers an online certification prep course. It's a great option if you're aiming for the CPC certification. While the cost is a bit higher, you're getting the backing of a well-respected state university. Keep in mind that this is a certification prep course, not a full certificate program.

6. AAPC - Oregon Medical Coding and Billing Training

This online training is offered directly by the AAPC, the leading certification body in the industry. While details are limited, the fact that it's targeted to Oregon residents and comes directly from the AAPC makes it a worthwhile option to explore. They are the gold standard for coding credentials, similar to how AHIMA is a leading organization in health information management.

Medical Billing And Coding Programs In Oregon

Clackamas Community College - Medical Billing and Coding Certificate

19600 Molalla Ave, Oregon City, Oregon 97045-8980 • 5153 students • 22% graduation rate • Certificate
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Clackamas Community College offers a one-year certificate program designed to get you into the high-demand field of medical billing and coding. It's a great fit if you're looking for a healthcare career that doesn't involve direct patient care. The program is built for flexibility, with online and evening classes, and focuses on preparing you for the national certification exams employers look for.

Duration:1 Year
Cost:$6,338
Format:Online, Evening Classes
Contact:[email protected] | 503-594-0623

What We Love

  • The program is designed to get you career-ready in just one year.
  • It's super flexible, offering both online and evening classes to fit around your life.
  • There's a strong focus on preparing you for nationally recognized certification exams, which is a big deal for getting hired.

Key Features

  • Flexible scheduling with online and evening options.
  • Prepares students for national certification exams.
  • Can be completed in one year (37 credits).

Lane Community College - Health Information Management (HIM)

4000 E 30th Ave, Eugene, Oregon 97405-0640 • 6507 students • 22% graduation rate • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree & 1-Year Certificate
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Lane's Health Information Management program is designed to get you career-ready by blending medicine, tech, and management. You'll learn the essential skills for the field, including in-depth medical coding with ICD-10 and CPT, all through a flexible online format. The program's main goal is to prepare you to pass the national Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification exam and step into a variety of healthcare roles.

Duration:2 years for the AAS degree, 1 year for the certificate
Cost:$19,401 - $50,250
Format:Online
Contact:Rick Riordan at [email protected] or 312.235.3255

What We Love

  • They offer specific prep classes to help you pass the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam, which is a huge confidence booster.
  • The entire program is online and asynchronous, meaning you can fit your classes around your work or family schedule without being tied to specific login times.
  • The program is accredited by CAHIIM, which is a big deal because it means employers will recognize and respect your degree.

Key Features

  • Offers both a 2-year Associate Degree and a stackable 1-year Medical Coding Certificate.
  • Prepares you to sit for the nationally recognized RHIT certification exam.
  • Fully online and asynchronous classes provide maximum flexibility.

Linn-Benton Community College - Coding and Reimbursement Specialist

6500 Pacific Blvd SW, Albany, Oregon 97321 • 4881 students • 25% graduation rate • One-Year Certificate
View Program

This program at Linn-Benton Community College trains you to translate medical services, diagnoses, and procedures into the universal codes used for billing and insurance. It's a critical role that ensures doctors and hospitals get paid correctly. The program is designed for detail-oriented people who enjoy solving puzzles and thinking critically, as you'll be responsible for making sure the revenue stream for healthcare providers is strong and secure.

Duration:1 Year

What We Love

  • They have a track record of placing graduates in jobs not just in Oregon, but in several other states, which speaks to the program's strong reputation.
  • The program description is refreshingly honest about who will succeed—it's a great fit if you're a natural problem-solver who loves digging into the details.
  • There's a clear emphasis on developing critical thinking skills, a key asset that will make you a more valuable employee in the healthcare field.

Key Features

  • This is a one-year certificate program, designed to prepare you for an entry-level job in healthcare reimbursement relatively quickly.
  • The curriculum is built to help you become a certified professional coder, a key credential for a successful career in medical billing.

Umpqua Community College - Healthcare Administration (Medical Office Administration Degree)

1140 Umpqua College Rd., Roseburg, Oregon 97470-0226 • 2387 students • 32% graduation rate • Associate Degree
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Umpqua Community College's Healthcare Administration program is designed to get you started in the business side of the medical field. You'll learn skills for roles like office assistant, reception, and document management in clinics or medical offices, all while working towards a two-year Associate Degree in Medical Office Administration.

Duration:2 Years
Format:On-Campus (with separate Online training options available)
Contact:1-704-329-820

What We Love

  • It's a full 2-year degree program, which can give you a more solid foundation than just a short-term certificate.
  • The program prepares you for a variety of support roles, which gives you more flexibility when you start your job search.
  • They also offer a separate, focused online training for ICD-10 Medical Coding through a partner, which is a great option if you want to specialize or need a fully online course.

Key Features

  • Culminates in a Medical Office Administration Associate Degree.
  • Focuses on a broad range of business support skills for the healthcare industry.
  • Partners with ed2go to provide a flexible, online ICD-10 medical coding training program.

Salary Information for Oregon

💰 Medical Billing and Coding Salary Calculator for Oregon

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

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Frequently Asked Questions: Oregon Medical Billing & Coding Careers

Do I need a state license to be a medical biller in Oregon?

Yes, as of 2023, Oregon has specific licensing requirements for medical billers. This is a significant distinction from many other states and is a critical factor for anyone pursuing this career in Oregon. The requirement was established by Senate Bill 217 and is detailed in the Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR).

This licensing is managed by the Oregon Health Authority's Health Licensing Office. It's essential to stay current with their regulations, as they can be updated. We highly recommend reviewing the official state resources directly to understand the application process, fees, and any continuing education requirements for maintaining your license.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the Oregon Health Authority's Health Licensing Office website. They provide official documentation and an FAQ document specifically about these new rules.

What is the average salary for a medical coder in Oregon?

Based on recent job posting data, the average salary for a coding specialist in Oregon is approximately $28.55 per hour. This translates to an annual salary of around $59,380 for a full-time position. This figure serves as a solid baseline for what you can expect to earn in the state.

It's important to remember that this is an average. Your actual salary can vary based on several factors, including your specific certification (e.g., CPC, CCS), years of experience, and the type of healthcare facility you work for. Salaries may also be higher in major metropolitan areas like the Portland metro area (including Gresham and Hillsboro) to account for a higher cost of living compared to smaller cities like Eugene or Salem.

This data was compiled from dozens of salaries posted on Indeed. For more detailed insights and to see how salaries might differ by city, you can explore the latest salary data for Oregon coding specialists.

Can I become a medical coder in Oregon without prior healthcare experience?

Absolutely. One of the great things about a career in medical billing and coding is that you do not need to have prior education or experience in the healthcare field to get started. Reputable training programs are designed to teach you everything you need to know from the ground up, starting with the fundamentals.

A quality certification program will cover essential topics like medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and the various coding systems (ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS Level II). According to the AAPC, a leading certification body, their training helps you build all the essential skills a medical biller or coder needs through a structured curriculum.

This makes it an accessible career path for individuals looking to transition from other industries. Your focus should be on choosing a comprehensive training program that provides a solid foundation and prepares you thoroughly for your certification exam. Start by choosing a comprehensive training program that provides a solid foundation.

Where can I find accredited medical coding training programs in Oregon?

Oregon has several excellent options for medical billing and coding education, primarily through its community college system. These institutions offer programs designed to prepare you for national certification exams. They provide a structured learning environment with experienced instructors who are often professionals in the field.

Two prominent licensed education providers in the state are Portland Community College (PCC) and Clackamas Community College. For instance, the program at Portland Community College focuses on helping students understand medical terminology and analyze reports for accurate coding. These programs are well-regarded and offer a direct path to certification readiness.

In addition to community colleges, there are also online training providers that offer flexible learning schedules. When choosing a program, ensure it is licensed and has a strong track record of preparing students for exams from recognized bodies like AAPC or AHIMA.

What is the job market like for medical coders in Oregon?

The job market for medical billers and coders in Oregon is stable and expected to grow, consistent with national trends in the healthcare industry. Opportunities are concentrated in the state's major population centers, including Portland, Salem, and Eugene, where most hospitals, large clinic networks, and specialized medical centers are located.

Oregon's economic landscape, with a large number of small businesses, also means there are many opportunities in smaller private practices, dental offices, and specialty clinics. These settings can offer a different work environment compared to a large hospital system. Furthermore, the state's strong technology sector has led to an increase in remote work opportunities, allowing coders to work for healthcare providers located anywhere in the state, or even nationally, from their home.

To succeed in this market, obtaining a professional certification is key, as most employers require it. Gaining specialized knowledge in a particular area, such as outpatient or surgical coding, can also make you a more competitive candidate.

How should I prepare for my certification exam in Oregon?

Effective preparation is crucial for passing your certification exam, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam. The best first step is to enroll in a comprehensive training program from a licensed education provider. As mentioned, institutions like Portland Community College and Clackamas Community College offer structured courses that cover all exam topics in depth.

Beyond your core coursework, consistent practice is key. Use official study guides and take as many practice exams as possible. This helps you get comfortable with the format of the questions, improve your time management, and identify areas where you need more review. Focus on mastering the use of your codebooks (ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II), as you will be using them extensively during the test.

Consider joining a local study group or an online forum to connect with other students preparing for the exam. Explaining concepts to others is a great way to solidify your own understanding.

How much does medical coding training cost in Oregon?

The cost of medical billing and coding training in Oregon can vary significantly depending on the type of institution and the length of the program. Certificate programs at community colleges, like Portland Community College, typically range from $3,000 to $10,000. This often includes tuition, fees, and textbooks, but may not cover the cost of the certification exam itself.

Online programs can sometimes be more affordable, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $7,000. However, it's important to verify the quality and accreditation of online providers. Some programs are self-paced, while others follow a more structured schedule. An Associate's Degree program in Health Information Management will be more expensive but provides a more extensive education and may open up more career opportunities.

When evaluating costs, be sure to ask what is included. Does the price cover codebooks, exam fees, and membership to professional organizations like AAPC or AHIMA? Also, investigate whether financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans are available to help manage the expense.

What are the career advancement opportunities for coders in Oregon?

A career in medical coding offers significant potential for growth beyond an entry-level position. After gaining a few years of experience and demonstrating proficiency, you can advance into more senior or specialized roles. This could include becoming a lead coder, a coding quality auditor, or specializing in a complex area like surgery, oncology, or risk adjustment coding, which often command higher salaries.

Further advancement often involves moving into management or administrative roles. With additional education and experience, you could become a Coding Manager, a Health Information Management (HIM) Director, or a Revenue Cycle Manager. These positions involve overseeing a team of coders, managing budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, and working on higher-level strategy for a healthcare facility.

Earning additional certifications is a key strategy for career growth. Certifications in medical auditing (CPMA), compliance (CPCO), or practice management (CPPM) can open doors to new leadership opportunities. Continuously developing your skills will make you an invaluable asset in Oregon's dynamic healthcare landscape. Consider working with a career advisor to map out your long-term career path.