Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools In Lakeland Highlands, Florida 2025

By MedicalBillingAndCoding Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Medical Billing and Coding Schools In Lakeland Highlands, Florida

Medical Billing and Coding play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, serving as the backbone for healthcare providers' financial operations. These specialists translate healthcare services into standardized codes for billing purposes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations. Lakeland Highlands, Florida, is an ideal location for pursuing this field due to its growing medical industry, access to accredited training programs, and a supportive community. The area's proximity to larger cities like Lakeland and Tampa provides numerous internship and job opportunities. With a dedicated workforce and local businesses invested in education, Lakeland Highlands is a promising place to launch a career in medical billing and coding.
Best Medical Billing and Coding Schools Near Lakeland Highlands, Florida

Below are the top ranked medical billing and coding schools in the surrounding areas of Lakeland Highlands, Florida

1

Ultimate Medical Academy

Address: 1255 Cleveland St, Clearwater,Florida, Pinellas County, 33755-4933
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 7,436
Graduation Rate: 56%
Admission Rate: N/A
Programs Offered: 1
Available Medical Billing and Coding Degree Programs:
Medical Insurance and Billing Specialist
Medical Billing and Coding Degrees: Certificate, Associate's
Online Medical Billing and Coding Degrees Offered: Certificate, Associate's
2

Valencia College

Address: 1800 S Kirkman Road, Orlando,Florida, Orange County, 32811
3

Erwin Technical College

Address: 2010 E. Hillsborough Avenue, Tampa,Florida, Hillsborough County, 33610-8299

Common Admission Requirements For Medical Billing and Coding SchoolsIn Lakeland Highlands, Florida

When considering a Medical Billing and Coding program in Lakeland Highlands, applicants should expect the following general admission requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Proof of completion is usually mandatory for admissions.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Some programs may require basic courses in healthcare, anatomy, or computer skills, though many institutions accommodate students from diverse educational backgrounds.

  • Application Form: Applicants must fill out a personal information form, detailing their educational history and motivations for entering the field.

  • Standardized Test Scores: Depending on the institution, ACT or SAT scores may be required, particularly for applications to bachelor’s degree programs.

  • Background Check: Some programs may require a background check due to the sensitive nature of healthcare data.

  • Certifications: While not always necessary to enroll, certifications can enhance job prospects. Recommended exams include the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS).

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Medical Billing and Coding Schools In Lakeland Highlands, Florida

The cost of Medical Billing and Coding programs in Lakeland Highlands varies depending on the type of institution and program length. Here’s what to expect:

  • Tuition Costs: On average, tuition for certificate programs ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, while associate degrees can cost between $8,000 and $20,000.

  • Additional Costs: Students should also consider fees for books, supplies, and certification exams, which can add an extra $500 to $1,500 to the overall cost.

  • Financial Aid Options: Several financial aid options are available, including:

    • Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal grants and loans through FAFSA.
    • Scholarships: Many institutions and private organizations offer scholarships, especially for underrepresented groups in the healthcare industry.
    • Payment Plans: Some schools provide payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over several months.

  • State Grants: Florida residents may qualify for state-specific grants that help cover educational costs, such as the Florida Student Assistance Grant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Medical Billing and Coding Schools In Lakeland Highlands, Florida

  1. What is the typical duration for a Medical Billing and Coding program?

    • Certificate programs often take 6-12 months, while associate degrees typically require 1-2 years.

  2. Do I need prior experience in healthcare to enroll?

    • No, most programs welcome students from all backgrounds; however, basic healthcare knowledge can be beneficial.

  3. Are online Medical Billing and Coding courses available in Lakeland Highlands?

    • Yes, many local institutions offer online programs for flexibility.

  4. What is the potential salary for a Medical Billing and Coding specialist?

    • Entry-level positions start around $30,000, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $50,000 annually.

  5. Is certification necessary?

    • While not always required, obtaining certification can significantly enhance job prospects.

  6. Can I work from home in this field?

    • Yes, remote positions are increasingly available, especially post-pandemic.

  7. Are there job placement services available?

    • Many programs offer job placement assistance and have connections with local healthcare providers.

  8. What types of certifications can I pursue?

    • The most common certifications include CPC (Certified Professional Coder) and CCS (Certified Coding Specialist).

  9. Are there additional resources for ongoing education?

    • Yes, many professional organizations provide workshops, webinars, and continuing education opportunities.

  10. Can I further my education after completing a certificate?

    • Yes, many graduates choose to pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree in health information management or a related field.