Medical Coder in Alaska

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AK. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary
$56,740
trending_up +12.9% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Alaska.

engineering
1,360

Jobs (AK)

monitoring Strong
+7.1%

10-yr job growth

schedule
9-24 months for education, plus exam preparation

Time to complete

route How to become a medical coder in Alaska

To become a medical coder in Alaska, there is no state-level licensing body or mandatory state license. However, national certification is a standard requirement for employment. Aspiring medical coders should complete an accredited medical billing and coding program, which can range from a 9-month certificate to a two-year associate degree. After completing their education, individuals must pass a national certification exam from organizations such as the AAPC (e.g., Certified Professional Coder - CPC) or AHIMA (e.g., Certified Coding Specialist - CCS or Certified Coding Associate - CCA).

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $45,780
25th percentile $48,500
50th (median) $56,740
75th percentile $66,270
90th (experienced) $84,810

Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alaska. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.

checklist Alaska requirements

Licensing bodyNo state-level licensing body
State license Not required
EducationHigh school diploma or GED and completion of an accredited medical billing and coding program (certificate, diploma, or associate degree)
ExamNational certification exams such as AAPC's CPC, AHIMA's CCS/CCA, or NHA's CBCS
NotesMedical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Alaska. 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). Some employers may require 1-3 years of experience, though education can sometimes substitute for experience. Continuing education units (CEUs) are required to maintain national certifications (e.g., AAPC requires 36 CEUs every two years, AMBA requires 15 CEUs annually).

Source: No state-level licensing body

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth
+7.1%
Faster than average
Annual openings
14,200
Nationwide per year
Total employment
194,800
Nationwide

balance Is it worth it?

  • infoNo state license required — lower barrier but weaker signal
  • check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+7.1%)
psychology
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Frequently asked questions

How do I become a medical coder in Alaska? expand_more
To become a medical coder in Alaska, you need to complete the required education (High school diploma or GED and completion of an accredited medical billing and coding program (certificate, diploma, or associate degree)), and pass the National certification exams such as AAPC's CPC, AHIMA's CCS/CCA, or NHA's CBCS.
Do I need a license to work as a medical coder in Alaska? expand_more
medical coders in Alaska are not required to hold a state license. Note: Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Alaska. 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). Some employers may require 1-3 years of experience, though education can sometimes substitute for experience. Continuing education units (CEUs) are required to maintain national certifications (e.g., AAPC requires 36 CEUs every two years, AMBA requires 15 CEUs annually).
What do medical coders earn in Alaska? expand_more
medical coders in Alaska earn a median of $56,740 annually. This exceeds the $50,250 national median by 13%. New medical coders start around $45,780; seasoned professionals can reach $84,810.
How many months or years does medical coder certification take in Alaska? expand_more
The typical timeline in Alaska is 9-24 months for education, plus exam preparation. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

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