Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Louisiana

Data Sources: School data from U.S. Department of Education IPEDS database; salary data from Bureau of Labor Statistics OES (May 2023); job growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). All data verified January 2025.

Quick Answer: The best medical billing schools in Louisiana are community colleges like Delgado Community College and Bossier Parish Community College, which offer programs from $4,000-$6,500/year. Most programs take 12-18 months and lead to certification eligibility through AAPC credentials or AHIMA credentials.

Ranking Methodology: Rankings are based on estimated in-district community college tuition rates (40%), number of program options offered (30%), and availability of online/hybrid formats (30%). Data verified January 2025.

How Tuition Estimates Are Determined

The tuition estimates shown above are derived from:

• IPEDS Data: Official tuition and fee data reported by schools to the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System
• In-District Rates: Community college estimates use in-district tuition rates, which offer the lowest cost for residents
• Program Length: Costs are calculated for a typical certificate program (30-40 credits) or associate degree (60 credits)
• Data Verification: All estimates verified from official school websites and IPEDS reports in January 2025
• Additional Costs: Estimates do not include books ($500-$800), exam fees ($300-$400), or certification costs ($250-$400)

Note: Out-of-district and out-of-state students may pay 1.5-3x higher rates. Contact schools directly for your specific rate.

Major Healthcare Employers in Louisiana

Medical billing and coding professionals in Louisiana find employment with these major healthcare systems:

• LSU Health New Orleans: Major academic medical center with extensive billing and coding needs
• Ochsner Health System: Louisiana’s largest healthcare provider with multiple facilities
• Tulane Medical Center: Academic hospital with significant administrative healthcare operations
• Baton Rouge General Medical Center: Regional hospital system with comprehensive billing departments
• Shreveport Biomedical Research Foundation: Research and healthcare operations requiring coding specialists
• Private Medical Practices: Hundreds of physician offices and clinics throughout Louisiana
• Insurance Companies: Regional and national insurers processing Louisiana claims
• Medical Billing Companies: Third-party billing services serving multiple healthcare providers

What is the difference between a medical biller and a medical coder?

Medical coders assign diagnosis and procedure codes (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS) to patient records based on medical documentation. Medical billers use those codes to create and submit insurance claims for payment. Both roles are essential to healthcare revenue cycle management. Many programs teach both skills together.

Do I need a degree to work in medical billing and coding in Louisiana?

No formal degree is required to work in medical billing and coding in Louisiana. However, employers strongly prefer candidates with a certificate or associate degree from an accredited program. Certification (CPC, CCS, CCA) significantly improves job prospects and earning potential. Most entry-level positions require at least a certificate.

How much can I earn as a medical coder or biller in Louisiana?

Entry-level medical billers and coders in Louisiana earn $35,000-$45,000 annually. With experience and certification, earnings increase to $50,000-$65,000 per year. Health information managers earn $65,000-$85,000. Salary varies based on employer type (hospital vs. clinic), location, and credentials held.

Can I complete medical billing training online in Louisiana?

Yes, eight of Louisiana’s 15 schools offer online or hybrid medical billing and coding programs. Online programs typically take 9-18 months and cost $5,000-$8,000. Online learning is ideal for working professionals and those unable to attend campus classes. However, some employers prefer graduates with hands-on clinical experience.

What credentials should I pursue after completing a program?

The most valuable credentials are CPC (Certified Professional Coder) through AAPC and CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) through AHIMA. CPC is ideal for outpatient/clinic settings, while CCS is better for hospital inpatient coding. Entry-level professionals can start with CCA (Certified Coding Associate). Most programs prepare you for certification exams.

What is the job outlook for medical billing and coding in Louisiana?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 8% job growth for medical coders and billers from 2023-2033, with health information technicians growing at 17%. Louisiana’s aging population and expanding healthcare system create strong demand. Remote work opportunities are increasing, allowing professionals to work for employers nationwide.

Related Resources

Professional Certifications

• Certified Coding Specialist-Physician (CCS-P) – Specialization for outpatient and physician office coding
• CPMA exam preparation – Advanced credential for medical auditors
• Certified Coding Associate (CCA) – Entry-level credential requiring no experience
• CCS exam – Credential for inpatient hospital coders

Career Paths

• coding career opportunities – Explore all medical billing and coding positions
• Hospital Biller – Career path in hospital billing departments
• Compliance Officer – Advanced role ensuring healthcare compliance
• Quality Assurance Specialist – Career in coding accuracy and quality
• Clinical Coding Specialist – Specialized coding roles in clinical settings

Professional Organizations

• AAPC credentials – American Association of Professional Coders certifications
• AHIMA credentials – American Health Information Management Association certifications
• AHIMA program directory – Find AHIMA-approved medical billing schools