Medical Coder in Colorado
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for CO
How to Become a Medical Coder in Colorado
In Colorado, medical coders are not required to hold a state license. However, obtaining national certification is highly recommended and often a prerequisite for employment. Aspiring medical coders typically complete a certification preparation course or an associate's degree program, then pass an exam from a national organization such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) for certifications like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) for credentials like the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA). Maintaining these certifications requires ongoing continuing education.
Medical Coder Requirements in Colorado
| Detail | Colorado |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | No state-level licensing body (National certification bodies exist, e.g., AAPC, AHIMA) |
| State License Required | No |
| Notes | Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Colorado. 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). A high school diploma or GED is a minimum requirement for training programs. Some certifications, like AAPC's CPC-A (Apprentice), may require experience hours that can be fulfilled through practicum programs. Continuing education is required to maintain national certifications. Minimum age is not specified but implied to be 18+ for post-secondary education. |
Source: No state-level licensing body (National certification bodies exist, e.g., AAPC, AHIMA)
Medical Coder Salary in Colorado
The median medical coder salary in Colorado is $55,410 per year, which is 10.3% above the national median of $50,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $42,640 |
| 25th | $48,240 |
| 50th (median) | $55,410 |
| 75th | $66,910 |
| 90th (experienced) | $83,840 |
Colorado employs approximately 1,660 medical coders.
Medical Coder Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Medical Coder in Colorado Worth It?
Factors to consider: Colorado's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.