Medical Billing and Coding Training in Kentwood, MI

Medical Billing and Coding Training Overview for Kentwood

Kentwood, Michigan, with a population of approximately 52,000, is strategically located within the Grand Rapids metropolitan area—one of Michigan’s largest healthcare employment centers. Students and career-changers in Kentwood seeking medical billing and coding training have access to quality programs that prepare them for positions in hospitals, clinics, billing offices, and healthcare organizations throughout West Michigan.

Medical billing and coding professionals are essential to healthcare operations, managing insurance claims, patient records, and healthcare documentation. With healthcare facilities throughout the Kentwood region continuously expanding their administrative teams, demand for trained medical billing and coding specialists remains strong. Whether you’re beginning your healthcare career or transitioning into the field, Kentwood-area training programs provide the credentials and knowledge needed to enter this stable, growing profession.

What Medical Billing and Coding Programs Are Available in Kentwood?

While Kentwood itself has limited direct medical billing and coding programs listed in the IPEDS database, regional institutions serving the Kentwood area offer comprehensive training options. The following section profiles the primary training pathway available to Kentwood students:

Compare Medical Billing Programs Available to Kentwood Students

How to Choose a Medical Billing Program in Kentwood?

Selecting the right medical billing and coding program requires evaluating multiple factors including accreditation, program format, duration, and alignment with your career goals. Follow these steps to make an informed decision about your Kentwood medical billing education:

Step 1: Verify Accreditation and Institutional Recognition

Confirm that any Kentwood medical billing program is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education. IPEDS-accredited institutions meet rigorous quality standards and are eligible to participate in federal financial aid programs. You can verify accreditation status through the NCES IPEDS database or by contacting the institution directly. Institutional accreditation ensures that your certificate or degree will be recognized by employers throughout Michigan and nationally.

Step 2: Evaluate Program Format Against Your Schedule

Kentwood students can choose between on-campus instruction, online learning, or hybrid formats. On-campus programs provide direct interaction with instructors and hands-on practice with coding software. Online programs offer maximum flexibility for working professionals or those with family commitments. Consider your work schedule, learning preferences, and commute capabilities when selecting between available options in Kentwood.

Step 3: Confirm Certification Exam Preparation

Verify that your chosen Kentwood program prepares you for recognized professional certifications such as the CPC (Certified Professional Coder), CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), or RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician). Programs that explicitly cover exam content, provide practice tests, and offer exam registration support give you the best chance of passing on your first attempt. Ask programs about their students’ certification pass rates.

Step 4: Review Career Services and Job Placement Support

Strong Kentwood medical billing programs offer career services including resume development, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. Ask whether the program maintains relationships with local healthcare employers in Kentwood and the Grand Rapids area. Programs that actively facilitate connections between graduates and hiring organizations significantly improve employment outcomes.

Step 5: Compare Program Duration and Completion Timeline

Most Kentwood medical billing certificates can be completed in 12-18 months. However, program lengths vary based on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Consider your financial situation and how quickly you need to enter the workforce when comparing programs. Accelerated options are available for highly motivated Kentwood students, while part-time options suit those continuing employment during training.

What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Kentwood Medical Billing Program?

Healthcare Career Pathways for Kentwood Graduates

Medical billing and coding professionals trained in Kentwood have diverse career opportunities throughout healthcare organizations. Entry-level positions typically include medical coding clerk, billing specialist, or health information technician roles. With experience and additional certifications, Kentwood graduates advance into medical coder, billing supervisor, health information manager, or compliance auditor positions. Some medical billing professionals in Kentwood transition into specialized areas like revenue cycle management, health information technology, or healthcare consulting.

The career pathways in medical billing and coding expand significantly as you gain experience and pursue advanced credentials. Many Kentwood professionals use their certificate as a foundation for completing associate or bachelor’s degrees in health information management or health informatics.

Salary Expectations for Kentwood Medical Billing Professionals

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data from May 2023, medical records specialists across Michigan earn a median annual wage of $42,020. In the Grand Rapids metropolitan area, which includes Kentwood, wages are comparable to or slightly above the state average. Entry-level positions in Kentwood typically start around $28,000-$32,000 annually, while experienced medical billing and coding specialists with multiple certifications earn $50,000-$65,000 or more.

Salary variation in Kentwood depends on several factors including:

• Number and type of professional certifications (CPC, CCS, RHIT)
• Years of experience in medical coding and billing
• Type of employer (hospital, clinic, billing service, insurance company)
• Specialization area (cardiovascular coding, oncology, orthopedic coding, etc.)
• Work setting (inpatient vs. outpatient)

Employment Growth in Kentwood’s Healthcare Sector

Medical records and health information specialist positions are projected to grow 8% through 2032, faster than the average occupation growth rate, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is driven by increasing healthcare demands, expanded electronic health record (EHR) adoption, and growing regulatory requirements for healthcare documentation. Kentwood’s location within the Grand Rapids metropolitan area—a major healthcare employment center in Michigan—provides graduates with numerous job opportunities.

Major Employers of Medical Billing and Coding Professionals in Kentwood

Kentwood-area healthcare organizations actively hire medical billing and coding specialists:

• Spectrum Health (major hospital system with multiple Kentwood-area facilities)
• Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital
• Mercy Health West Michigan
• Independent medical practices and clinics throughout Kentwood
• Medical billing and coding service providers
• Health insurance companies with West Michigan operations
• Urgent care centers and surgical centers in the Kentwood region

Medical Billing and Coding Training in Nearby MI Cities

Kentwood students also have access to medical billing and coding programs in nearby cities throughout Michigan. Exploring programs in neighboring communities can provide additional options for program formats, schedules, and career pathways. Many students find that programs in nearby cities offer unique advantages such as specialized certifications, evening and weekend classes, or enhanced clinical partnerships with regional healthcare systems.

The following Michigan cities within the greater Kentwood region also offer medical billing and coding training programs:

Each of these cities maintains its own healthcare infrastructure and medical billing and coding training options. Consider factors such as commute time, program reputation, and local employment opportunities when evaluating programs in nearby communities. The complete Michigan medical billing and coding schools directory provides comprehensive information about programs throughout the state.

Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Kentwood Students

Kentwood residents seeking maximum flexibility can pursue medical billing and coding education through accredited online programs. Online training allows students to complete coursework on their own schedule while maintaining work and family commitments. Many online programs include the same certification exam preparation and career services as on-campus options, making them a viable alternative for Kentwood-area students.

Popular online medical billing and coding programs available to Kentwood students include:

• AAPC Online Training: The American Academy of Professional Coders offers self-paced online courses with CPC exam preparation and lifetime access to course materials. AAPC’s comprehensive curriculum covers ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems, making it ideal for Kentwood professionals seeking flexible certification preparation.
• AHIMA Online Programs: The American Health Information Management Association provides comprehensive online education for health information technology and coding certifications including CCS and RHIT credentials. AHIMA’s programs are recognized nationally and prepare Kentwood graduates for advanced healthcare information management roles.
• Penn Foster Career School: Nationally accredited online medical billing and coding diploma program with flexible payment plans and certification exam preparation. Penn Foster serves Kentwood students through entirely self-paced, online instruction with email and phone support from instructors.

When evaluating online programs, Kentwood students should verify that the program provides:

• Accreditation from recognized agencies (Distance Education Accrediting Commission, regional accreditors)
• Preparation for professional certifications (CPC, CCS, CCA, RHIT)
• Access to practice management software and actual coding tools used in healthcare offices
• Career services and job placement assistance for Kentwood graduates
• Responsive instructor support and student community forums for peer learning
• Flexible start dates and self-paced scheduling

For more information about available training formats and program types, see our guide to medical billing and coding classes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing Training in Kentwood

How much do medical billers and coders earn in Kentwood?

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2023, medical records specialists in Michigan earn a median annual wage of $42,020. In the Kentwood metropolitan area, entry-level medical billing professionals typically earn $28,000-$32,000 annually, while experienced Kentwood specialists with multiple certifications earn $50,000-$65,000 or more. Salary varies based on employer type, experience level, and specific certifications held.

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

Medical billing and coding certificate programs in Kentwood typically require 12-18 months of full-time study to complete. Some accelerated options can be finished in as little as 12 months, as offered by Davenport University’s Kentwood-area program. Part-time programs may take 24 months or longer. After completing a certificate program, Kentwood graduates need 1-2 additional months to prepare for and pass certification exams (CPC, CCS).

Can I study medical billing online in Kentwood?

Yes, Kentwood students have multiple online medical billing and coding options. Davenport University’s Global Campus offers its certificate program entirely online. Additionally, national online programs from AAPC, AHIMA, Penn Foster, and Career Step serve Kentwood students. Online programs provide complete flexibility for working professionals in Kentwood and neighboring areas.

What certifications do Kentwood medical billers need?

The most important certifications for Kentwood medical billing and coding professionals are CPC (Certified Professional Coder), CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), CCA (Certified Coding Associate), and RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician). Most Kentwood employers prefer candidates with at least one professional certification. To learn more, see our guide to the top medical billing and coding certifications.

How much does medical billing training cost in Kentwood?

Costs for medical billing and coding programs in Kentwood vary by institution and program length. Certificate programs typically range from $5,000-$15,000 for complete training. Davenport University and other Kentwood institutions offer financial aid, payment plans, and federal student loan eligibility for qualifying students. Contact specific Kentwood-area programs for current tuition rates and financial aid options.

What are the job prospects for medical billers in Kentwood?

Medical records and health information specialist positions are projected to grow 8% through 2032, faster than average job growth. Kentwood’s location in the Grand Rapids metropolitan area—Michigan’s second-largest healthcare employment center—provides strong job prospects. Healthcare organizations throughout Kentwood and West Michigan actively hire medical billing and coding specialists.

Do I need a degree to work in medical billing in Kentwood?

A four-year degree is not required to work in medical billing in Kentwood. Most entry-level positions require a high school diploma or GED plus completion of a medical billing and coding certificate program and passage of a professional certification exam (CPC, CCS). Many Kentwood employers view professional certifications as equivalent to or more valuable than general associate degrees.

What’s the difference between medical billing and medical coding?

Medical coding involves assigning standardized codes (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS) to diagnoses and procedures from patient medical records. Medical billing uses those codes to create claims submitted to insurance companies. Medical coders translate clinical documentation into codes; medical billers manage the financial aspects of healthcare claims. In Kentwood, many professionals perform both functions, and training programs cover both skills comprehensively.

Can I specialize in particular coding areas after completing a Kentwood program?

Yes, after completing a basic medical billing and coding certificate in Kentwood, specialists can pursue advanced certifications in specialty areas such as cardiovascular coding, oncology coding, orthopedic coding, or emergency department coding. These specializations typically require 1-2 years of experience and passing additional certification exams, but they command higher salaries in Kentwood healthcare settings.

What coding systems will I learn in a Kentwood medical billing program?

Kentwood medical billing and coding programs cover three primary coding systems: ICD-10 (diagnosis codes), CPT codes (procedure codes), and HCPCS codes (healthcare services and supplies). Programs also teach the documentation requirements, compliance regulations (HIPAA), and billing practices necessary for accurate coding. For detailed information, see our guide to understanding CPT codes and what is ICD-10.

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Begin Your Medical Billing Career in Kentwood Today

Medical billing and coding offers a stable, rewarding career path for Kentwood professionals seeking healthcare positions that don’t require additional education beyond a certificate. With strong job growth, competitive salaries starting at $28,000-$32,000 and advancing to $50,000+, and numerous employers throughout the Kentwood and Grand Rapids region, now is an excellent time to pursue this training.

Davenport University’s Medical Coding and Billing Certificate provides Kentwood residents with a direct pathway into this profession. Whether you choose the on-campus program at the W.A. Lettinga Campus in Kentwood or the flexible online option through the Global Campus, you’ll earn recognized certifications and develop the skills healthcare employers demand. With the ability to complete the program in as little as 12 months, you could begin your new medical billing career within the next year.

Start by contacting Davenport University’s admissions office to learn about enrollment, financial aid eligibility, and program start dates. Visit our medical billing and coding certification guide to understand the professional credentials you’ll be eligible to pursue after completing your certificate.

Last updated: October 29, 2025. All program information, tuition rates, and enrollment data verified directly from institutions and official sources. Salary and employment projections based on most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data available.