Medical Coder in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN
How to Become a Medical Coder in Tennessee
In Tennessee, medical coding is not a state-licensed profession; however, certification is a standard requirement for employment and is offered by national organizations such as the AAPC (e.g., Certified Professional Coder - CPC) and AHIMA (e.g., Certified Coding Specialist - CCS, Certified Coding Associate - CCA). To become certified, individuals typically need a high school diploma or GED and must pass a certification exam. While Tennessee does not charge for reciprocity, it is only available for specific certification categories and a limited number of bordering states, requiring verification from the originating state.
Medical Coder Requirements in Tennessee
| Detail | Tennessee |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | No state-level licensing body |
| State License Required | No |
| Notes | Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Tennessee. 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 generally required for certification programs. Some programs may have additional prerequisites like specific biology and math courses. |
Source: No state-level licensing body
Medical Coder Salary in Tennessee
The median medical coder salary in Tennessee is $49,740 per year, which is 1.0% below the national median of $50,250.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $35,930 |
| 25th | $40,030 |
| 50th (median) | $49,740 |
| 75th | $63,280 |
| 90th (experienced) | $78,830 |
Tennessee employs approximately 3,580 medical coders.
Medical Coder Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Medical Coder in Tennessee Worth It?
Factors to consider: Tennessee's cost of living, the lack of a state license requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.