Medical Coder in Louisiana

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

Median annual salary
$43,820
trending_down -12.8% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Louisiana.

engineering
2,830

Jobs (LA)

monitoring Strong
+7.1%

10-yr job growth

route How to become a medical coder in Louisiana

In Louisiana, medical coding is not a state-licensed profession. However, national certification is a standard requirement for employment, with the most recognized certifications being the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from AAPC and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from AHIMA. To become certified, individuals typically need a high school diploma or GED and must pass a national certification exam. While no state-level reciprocity exists, national certifications are recognized across states.

bar_chart Salary percentiles

10th percentile (entry) $31,960
25th percentile $35,100
50th (median) $43,820
75th percentile $60,150
90th (experienced) $71,770

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

checklist Louisiana requirements

Licensing bodyNo state-level licensing body
State license Not required
EducationHigh school diploma or GED equivalent
NotesMedical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Louisiana. 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). Most employers require national certification (CPC or CCS) and HIPAA compliance training, and many require background checks for employees who access protected health information. Minimum age for certification exams is typically 18, as a high school diploma or GED is required.

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%)
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Frequently asked questions

What are the steps to becoming a medical coder in Louisiana? expand_more
In Louisiana, becoming a medical coder requires you to complete the required education (High school diploma or GED equivalent).
Can I work as a medical coder in Louisiana without a license? expand_more
medical coders in Louisiana are not required to hold a state license. Note: Medical coding is not a state-licensed profession in Louisiana. 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). Most employers require national certification (CPC or CCS) and HIPAA compliance training, and many require background checks for employees who access protected health information. Minimum age for certification exams is typically 18, as a high school diploma or GED is required.
What do medical coders earn in Louisiana? expand_more
medical coders in Louisiana earn a median of $43,820 annually. — 13% under the $50,250 national average. New medical coders start around $31,960; seasoned professionals can reach $71,770.

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