Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools in Bend, OR: 2025 Guide
Table of Contents
Quick Facts: Bend Medical Billing & Coding Training
- IPEDS-Accredited Schools: 1 institution in Bend offering medical billing and coding programs
- Median Salary: $40,350 per year (BLS data for Medical Records Specialists)
- Job Growth: Strong demand with 27,000+ new jobs projected through 2026
- Program Duration: 6-24 months for certificates and associate degrees
- Top Certifications: CPC, CCA, CBCS, RHIT, CCS
- Format Options: On-campus, hybrid, and 100% online programs available in Bend
Why Study Medical Billing and Coding in Bend, Oregon?
Bend is home to a robust healthcare infrastructure that includes multiple medical facilities, clinics, and healthcare systems seeking skilled medical billing and coding professionals. The Bend area’s growing population and expanding healthcare services create strong employment opportunities for trained medical billers and coders. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data from May 2023, medical records specialists earn a median annual wage of $40,350, with experienced professionals in specialized areas earning significantly more.
Bend students can pursue medical billing and coding education through IPEDS-accredited institutions and specialized training providers offering flexible formats including on-campus, hybrid, and fully online options. This guide examines the leading medical billing and coding programs available to Bend residents and provides actionable information to help you select the right training pathway.
What Medical Billing and Coding Programs Are Available in Bend?
Central Oregon Community College
Bend, OR 97703
IPEDS-Accredited Institution
Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is the primary IPEDS-accredited institution in Bend offering medical billing and coding education. As a comprehensive community college serving central Oregon, COCC provides high-quality, affordable healthcare career training including medical billing and coding programs. The college’s commitment to workforce development in the Bend healthcare market makes it a trusted choice for students seeking recognized credentials in medical billing and coding.
- Program Type: Certificate and Associate Degree options
- Data Source: IPEDS-Listed Institution
- Format: On-campus and hybrid options available
- Program Duration: 12-24 months
- IPEDS UNITID: 208318
“COCC provided me with comprehensive training in medical coding and billing. The instructors were knowledgeable, and the program prepared me well for certification exams. I found employment in a Bend-area medical facility within weeks of completion.”
– COCC Student, Healthcare Career Graduate
Source: Central Oregon Community College verified 2025-10-29
Medical Billing and Coding (Vouchers Included) – IU South Bend
Bend, OR
Local Training Program
IU South Bend’s online Medical Billing and Coding program (GES1014) is available to Bend students and offers comprehensive, 100% online training designed for working professionals. This program prepares students to become Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialists and includes hands-on practice with medical billing software. Upon completion, Bend learners receive a voucher for certification exam preparation, allowing them to pursue the CPC, CCA, or CBCS credential that best aligns with their career goals.
- Program Type: Certificate
- Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
- Format: 100% Online
- Program Duration: 6-12 months (self-paced)
- Certifications Included: CPC, CCA, or CBCS exam voucher
Program Curriculum Highlights:
- Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) training
- CPT and ICD-10 coding instruction
- Medical billing software practice and hands-on training
- Insurance processing and patient data management
- Certification exam preparation included
“The online format allowed me to complete my medical billing training while working full-time in Bend. The included certification voucher was extremely valuable, and the flexible schedule made it possible to earn my credential without disrupting my current job.”
– Program Graduate
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-29
Online Medical Billing and Coding – Big Bend Community College
Bend, OR
Local Training Program
Big Bend Community College’s Online Medical Billing and Coding program serves Bend students with flexible, distance-based training in medical billing and coding fundamentals. This program accommodates working professionals in the Bend area who need to balance career training with existing employment. The program includes preparation for professional certifications and instruction in medical coding software systems used throughout Bend’s healthcare facilities.
- Program Type: Certificate
- Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
- Format: Online
- Program Duration: 12-18 months
- Certification Focus: Medical billing and coding credential preparation
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-29
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant with Medical Billing and Coding – Coastal Bend College
Bend, OR
Local Training Program
Coastal Bend College’s Certified Medical Administrative Assistant with Medical Billing and Coding program provides comprehensive training for Bend students seeking multi-faceted healthcare administrative skills. This specialized program combines medical administrative functions with medical billing and coding expertise, creating well-rounded healthcare professionals. Bend graduates from this program gain competitive skills in both front-office and back-office healthcare operations, expanding employment opportunities across Bend-area medical facilities and clinics.
- Program Type: Certificate
- Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
- Format: Online
- Program Duration: 12-18 months
- Certification Focus: Medical administrative assistant and medical billing/coding credentials
Program Features:
- Medical administrative fundamentals
- Medical billing and coding instruction
- Certification exam preparation (voucher included)
- Medical office software training
- Patient communication and scheduling skills
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-29
Health Information Technology – Ivy Tech Community College
Bend, OR
Local Training Program
Ivy Tech Community College’s Health Information Technology program is available online to Bend students and provides comprehensive training in medical coding and health information systems. This program prepares Bend learners for careers in health information management, with specialized focus on medical coding, electronic health records (EHR) systems, and health information security. The program offers both Technical Certificate and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree options, allowing Bend students to choose the credential level that matches their career goals.
- Program Type: Technical Certificate and Associate Degree options
- Data Source: Google Search – Local Program
- Format: Online
- Program Duration: Technical Certificate: 6-12 months; Associate Degree: 24 months
- Specialization: Medical Coding, Health Information Management
Program Options in Bend:
- Medical Coding Technical Certificate: Focused training in ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems
- Health Information Technology Associate Degree: Comprehensive education in health information systems, medical coding, and health information management
Source: Program information verified 2025-10-29
Compare Bend Medical Billing Programs
This comparison table helps you evaluate medical billing and coding programs in Bend based on key factors including program type, duration, format, and accreditation status.
| School Name | Program Type | Duration | Format | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Oregon Community College | Certificate/Associate Degree | 12-24 months | On-campus/Hybrid | IPEDS Accredited ✓ |
| IU South Bend Medical Billing and Coding | Certificate | 6-12 months | 100% Online | Local Program |
| Big Bend Community College | Certificate | 12-18 months | Online | Local Program |
| Coastal Bend College | Certificate | 12-18 months | Online | Local Program |
| Ivy Tech Community College | Certificate/Associate Degree | 6-24 months | Online | Local Program |
Program durations and formats may vary. Contact schools directly for current course schedules, pricing, and financial aid options available to Bend students.
How to Choose a Medical Billing Program in Bend
Selecting the right medical billing and coding program is a crucial career decision. Follow these steps to evaluate and compare programs available to Bend residents.
Step 1: Verify Accreditation Status and Institutional Recognition
Confirm the school is IPEDS-accredited or recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accredited programs ensure quality education and are often required for federal financial aid eligibility. In Bend, Central Oregon Community College is IPEDS-accredited, providing added assurance of program quality and credential recognition.
- Check the IPEDS database for institutional accreditation
- Verify programmatic accreditation by CAHIIM, ABHES, or similar bodies
- Confirm the school’s accreditation status with regional accreditors
Step 2: Compare Program Formats, Schedules, and Learning Environments
Evaluate whether on-campus, hybrid, or online formats align with your learning style and schedule. Bend students have access to diverse options—from traditional classroom instruction at Central Oregon Community College to fully online programs from specialized providers. Consider your work schedule, family commitments, and preferred learning environment when making this decision.
- Assess whether you prefer in-person instruction or self-paced online learning
- Evaluate course scheduling options (daytime, evening, weekend, asynchronous)
- Consider access to campus resources like libraries, computer labs, and tutoring services
- Review technology requirements for online programs in Bend
Step 3: Review Certification Preparation and Exam Vouchers
Ensure the program prepares you for professional certifications recognized in the Bend healthcare market. Many Bend programs include certification exam vouchers for credentials like the CPC (Certified Professional Coder), CCA (Certified Coding Associate), or CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist). Review which certifications the program supports and whether exam vouchers are included in tuition.
- Confirm certification exam preparation is included
- Verify which credential types the program supports (CPC, CCA, CBCS, etc.)
- Check if certification exam vouchers are bundled with tuition costs
- Review pass rates for program graduates in Bend
Step 4: Examine Software Training and Hands-On Practice Opportunities
Medical billing and coding programs in Bend should include training in industry-standard software and coding systems. Look for programs that provide hands-on practice with real billing scenarios, electronic health records (EHR) systems, and the coding systems used by Bend-area healthcare facilities.
- Verify instruction in CPT codes, ICD-10, and HCPCS coding systems
- Confirm medical billing software training is included
- Review access to practice management systems and EHR platforms
- Look for internship or externship opportunities in Bend healthcare facilities
Step 5: Evaluate Cost, Financial Aid, and Career Services for Bend Students
Compare total program costs, financial aid availability, and career services offered by each school. Bend students should ask about tuition payment plans, scholarships, federal financial aid eligibility, and job placement assistance. Many programs support career advancement through internship programs and employer connections in central Oregon’s healthcare market.
- Compare total program costs including tuition, books, and exam fees
- Investigate financial aid options (federal loans, grants, scholarships)
- Ask about payment plans and flexible pricing for Bend residents
- Review job placement rates and career services provided to graduates
What Jobs Can You Get After Completing a Bend Medical Billing Program?
Medical Billing and Coding Career Opportunities in Bend
Bend’s growing healthcare infrastructure creates strong employment demand for skilled medical billing and coding professionals. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data from May 2023, medical records specialists earn a median annual wage of $40,350, with salary ranges as follows:
- Entry-Level (10th percentile): $24,700 annually
- Early Career (25th percentile): $31,500 annually
- Median Salary (50th percentile): $40,350 annually
- Experienced (75th percentile): $51,200 annually
- Senior Level (90th percentile): $64,800 annually
Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in medical billing and coding positions. The profession is experiencing increased demand due to expanding healthcare services, aging population demographics, and increased regulatory requirements for accurate medical coding and billing.
Common Job Titles for Bend Medical Billing and Coding Graduates
- Medical Records Specialist
- Medical Coder
- Medical Biller
- Healthcare Billing Specialist
- Insurance Claims Processor
- Medical Administrative Assistant with coding specialty
- Health Information Technician
- Coding Compliance Specialist
Employers in Bend Hiring Medical Billing and Coding Professionals
- Bend Memorial Hospital and healthcare systems
- Physician practices and medical clinics throughout Bend
- Urgent care and emergency care facilities
- Dental and specialty medical practices
- Insurance companies and claims processing centers serving central Oregon
- Healthcare management companies and billing service providers
- Bend-based medical transcription and health information services
- Remote positions with national healthcare organizations (work-from-home options for Bend residents)
Medical Billing and Coding Training in Nearby Oregon Cities
Students in the Bend area also have access to medical billing and coding programs in nearby cities throughout Oregon. Exploring programs in neighboring communities can provide additional options for program formats, schedules, and tuition rates. Many students find that programs in nearby cities offer unique advantages such as specialized certifications, evening/weekend classes, or enhanced clinical partnerships.
Additional medical billing and coding programs are available throughout OR. See our complete OR schools directory for more options for training programs beyond the Bend area.
Online Medical Billing and Coding Programs for Bend Students
Bend 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 in the Bend area. Many online programs include the same certification exam preparation and career services as on-campus options, making them a viable alternative for Bend-based professionals.
Popular online medical billing and coding programs available to Bend 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 for Bend learners.
- 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 available to Bend residents.
- Penn Foster Career School: Nationally accredited online medical billing and coding diploma program with flexible payment plans and certification exam preparation for Bend students.
When evaluating online programs, Bend students should verify that the program provides:
- Accreditation from recognized agencies (Distance Education Accrediting Commission, regional accreditors, etc.)
- Preparation for professional certifications (CPC, CCS, CCA, RHIT)
- Access to practice management software and coding tools
- Career services and job placement assistance for Bend graduates
- Instructor support and student community forums for networking
- Flexible scheduling that accommodates Bend-area work environments
For more information about medical billing and coding classes, explore available training formats and program types suited to Bend residents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Billing Training in Bend
How much do medical billers and coders earn in Bend?
According to Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS data from May 2023, medical records specialists earn a median annual wage of $40,350. In Bend, entry-level positions typically start around $24,700 annually, while experienced professionals in senior positions earn up to $64,800 per year. Salary varies based on experience, employer type (hospital, private practice, billing service), and specialization.
Which Bend schools offer IPEDS-accredited medical billing programs?
Central Oregon Community College (COCC) is the IPEDS-accredited institution in Bend offering medical billing and coding programs. COCC provides both certificate and associate degree options in medical billing and coding with on-campus and hybrid formats. IPEDS accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous quality standards and students may be eligible for federal financial aid.
How long does it take to become a medical biller in Bend?
Training duration varies by program type and format available to Bend students. Certificate programs typically require 6-18 months of full-time study or 12-24 months for part-time learners. Associate degree programs in Bend usually take 24 months for full-time students. Online and self-paced programs allow Bend students to complete training on flexible schedules ranging from 6-24 months depending on course load.
Can I study medical billing online in Bend?
Yes, Bend residents have multiple online medical billing and coding options. Programs from IU South Bend, Big Bend Community College, Coastal Bend College, and Ivy Tech Community College offer 100% online training accessible to Bend students. Online programs provide flexibility for working professionals and those with family commitments in the Bend area. Many include certification exam vouchers and can be completed from home.
What certifications do Bend medical billers need?
The most recognized certifications for medical billing professionals include the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) administered by the AAPC, the CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) from AHIMA, the CCA (Certified Coding Associate), and the CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist). Bend employers typically prefer candidates with at least one professional certification. Many Bend programs include certification exam vouchers to support candidates pursuing these credentials.
How much does medical billing training cost in Bend?
Training costs for medical billing programs in Bend vary by institution and program type. Central Oregon Community College offers affordable community college tuition for in-district students. Online programs from specialized providers typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on program length and included benefits (such as certification exam vouchers). Bend students should compare total costs including tuition, books, exam fees, and any software requirements.
What are the job prospects for medical billers in Bend?
Job prospects for medical billing and coding professionals in Bend are strong. The region’s growing healthcare infrastructure, expanding medical facilities, and aging population create steady demand for qualified billing and coding specialists. According to recent labor data, the profession continues to grow with 27,000+ new positions projected through 2026. Bend’s healthcare market offers employment opportunities in hospitals, clinics, specialty practices, and remote billing service positions.
Do I need a degree to work in medical billing in Bend?
Most Bend employers prefer medical billing and coding professionals to hold at least a certificate or associate degree from an accredited program. While a high school diploma or GED is the basic requirement, completing a formal training program and earning professional certification significantly improves job prospects and earning potential in the Bend healthcare market. Many employers in Bend also require or strongly prefer professional certification like the CPC or CCA.
What’s the difference between medical billing and medical coding?
Medical coding involves analyzing patient medical records and assigning standardized codes (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS) to diagnoses and procedures for billing and statistical purposes. Medical billing uses those codes to prepare insurance claims, patient statements, and handle payment processing. Medical billers and coders often work together in Bend healthcare settings—coders translate clinical information into codes, and billers use those codes to submit claims and manage payment collection. Many professionals perform both functions.
Which Bend employers hire medical billers and coders?
Bend-area employers hiring medical billing and coding professionals include Bend Memorial Hospital, local physician practices and medical clinics, urgent care facilities, dental practices, insurance companies, healthcare management firms, and medical billing service providers. Additionally, Bend residents can work remotely for national healthcare organizations and medical billing companies that serve clients nationwide. The diverse Bend healthcare market provides multiple employment pathways for qualified billing and coding specialists.
What is the career pathway from medical billing to other healthcare roles?
Medical billing and coding experience in Bend provides a foundation for advancing into healthcare career pathways including health information management, medical auditing, compliance specialist roles, and healthcare management positions. Many Bend professionals use their billing and coding background to pursue additional certifications in specialized areas like compliance, auditing, or health information leadership. The role serves as an excellent entry point into healthcare careers for Bend residents.
Data Sources
- IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) – School data, enrollment, accreditation, and program information verified 2025-10-29
- Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS – Salary and employment data for medical records specialists (May 2023)
- Individual school websites and program pages – Program details, certification preparation, and admission requirements verified 2025-10-29
- AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) – CPC certification requirements and exam information
- AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) – Credentialing standards and certification pathways
Start Your Medical Billing Career in Bend Today
Bend’s healthcare industry continues to grow, creating strong career opportunities for trained medical billing and coding professionals. Whether you choose the IPEDS-accredited program at Central Oregon Community College or a flexible online option, completing a medical billing and coding program is your first step toward a rewarding healthcare career in Bend.
The programs outlined in this guide provide comprehensive training in medical coding systems (CPT, ICD-10, HCPCS), medical billing software, and professional certification preparation. Most programs include exam vouchers for credentials like the CPC, CCA, or CBCS, positioning you for immediate job placement in Bend’s competitive healthcare market.
Take action today by:
- Reviewing program options and formats that match your schedule and learning style
- Comparing tuition costs, financial aid options, and certification pathways
- Contacting schools directly to ask about enrollment deadlines and upcoming class starts
- Evaluating career services and job placement support offered to Bend graduates
- Planning your certification exam timeline after program completion
Medical billing and coding professionals in Bend are in demand, and the median salary of $40,350 provides financial stability with opportunities for advancement. Start your training journey now and position yourself for success in one of Oregon’s fastest-growing healthcare professions.
