Medical Coder in North Carolina
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NC
How to Become a Medical Coder in North Carolina
To become a Medical Coder in North Carolina, individuals are not required to hold a state license, as it is not a state-licensed profession. However, obtaining national certification is highly recommended and often a standard requirement for employment. Key certifications include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC or the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) from AHIMA. Aspiring coders typically need a high school diploma or GED to enroll in a certification program, which can take 4-12 months to complete, or pursue a two-year Associate's Degree.
Medical Coder Requirements in North Carolina
| Detail | North Carolina |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | No state-level licensing body; national certification organizations like AAPC and AHIMA offer certifications. |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent is typically required for entry into programs. Many employers prefer candidates with a certificate, diploma, or Associate's Degree in Medical Billing and Coding. |
| Exam | Various, including Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC, and Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) from AHIMA. ($299) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 36.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in North Carolina. Certification is voluntary at the state level but is a standard requirement for employment by many healthcare facilities. Employers often value certifications like CPC, CCS, or CCA. A high school diploma or GED is generally needed to begin education in medical coding. Some programs, like UNC Charlotte's, recommend prior experience or coursework in medical terminology. Background checks and drug screenings may be required for externship and job placement services. |
Medical Coder Salary in North Carolina
The median medical coder salary in North Carolina is $47,840 per year, which is 4.8% below the national median of $50,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,170 |
| 25th | $38,860 |
| 50th (median) | $47,840 |
| 75th | $62,350 |
| 90th (experienced) | $79,250 |
North Carolina employs approximately 5,960 medical coders.
Medical Coder Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Medical Coder in North Carolina Worth It?
Factors to consider: North Carolina's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.