Medical Coder in Oregon
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for OR
How to Become a Medical Coder in Oregon
To become a medical coder in Oregon, individuals are not required to hold a state license, as there is no state-level licensing body. However, national certification is a standard requirement for employment and is highly preferred by healthcare providers. Aspiring coders typically need a high school diploma or GED and should complete a medical coding program, which can take 4-12 months, to prepare for national certification exams such as those offered by AAPC (e.g., CPC) or AHIMA (e.g., CCS, CCA).
Medical Coder Requirements in Oregon
| Detail | Oregon |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | No state-level licensing body |
| State License Required | No |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent; post-secondary education in medical coding is highly recommended and often preferred by employers. |
| Exam | National certification exams (e.g., CPC, CCS, CCA, CBCS) ($475) |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 36.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Oregon. 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), AHIMA (e.g., CCS, CCA), and NHA (e.g., CBCS). Minimum age is generally 18 for professional certifications. |
Source: No state-level licensing body
Medical Coder Salary in Oregon
The median medical coder salary in Oregon is $57,260 per year, which is 14.0% above the national median of $50,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $40,670 |
| 25th | $46,960 |
| 50th (median) | $57,260 |
| 75th | $71,890 |
| 90th (experienced) | $80,720 |
Oregon employs approximately 2,550 medical coders.
Medical Coder Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Medical Coder in Oregon Worth It?
Factors to consider: Oregon's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.