Medical Coder in Arkansas
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AR
How to Become a Medical Coder in Arkansas
To become a medical coder in Arkansas, individuals are not required to obtain a state license, as it is a certification-based profession. The primary path involves earning a national certification from organizations such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). While a high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for certification exams, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a certificate or associate degree program in medical coding. Certification maintenance typically requires continuing education units (CEUs) every two years.
Medical Coder Requirements in Arkansas
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | No state-level licensing body (Certification by national organizations is standard for employment) |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent for certification exams; certificate or associate degree programs recommended by employers. |
| Exam | Varies by certifying body (e.g., AAPC's CPC, AHIMA's CCS/CCA) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Arkansas. Certification is voluntary at the state level but is a standard requirement for employment. Certifications are offered by national organizations like AAPC (e.g., CPC) and AHIMA (e.g., CCS, CCA). Most employers require national certification (CPC or CCS) and HIPAA compliance training, and many require background checks for employees who access protected health information. AAPC CPC holders must earn 36 CEUs every 2 years and maintain annual AAPC membership ($190/year). AHIMA CCS holders must earn 30 CEUs every 2 years. The AAPC recommends applicants for the CPC first earn an associate degree, or have at least two years of medical coding experience to avoid an 'apprentice' designation. AHIMA recommends at least six months of experience or completion of an AHIMA-approved coding certificate program for the CCA exam, and three years of experience for the CCS or CCS-P exams. |
Source: No state-level licensing body (Certification by national organizations is standard for employment)
Medical Coder Salary in Arkansas
The median medical coder salary in Arkansas is $39,920 per year, which is 20.6% below the national median of $50,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $32,430 |
| 25th | $36,500 |
| 50th (median) | $39,920 |
| 75th | $50,690 |
| 90th (experienced) | $67,010 |
Arkansas employs approximately 1,640 medical coders.
Medical Coder Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Medical Coder in Arkansas Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arkansas's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.