Top 11 Billing Analyst Certifications

Certifications for a billing analyst are important in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skillset to excel in their role. In addition, certifications can help a billing analyst stand out from other applicants and show employers that they are committed to professional development. Certifications also provide the opportunity for an individual to gain additional knowledge and skills related to billing processes and procedures. This can help a billing analyst stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, which will make them more competitive in the job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Billing Analysts and explains how they can help to advance a billing analyst's career.

What are Billing Analyst Certifications?

Billing analyst certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in billing and accounts receivable processes. It is offered by organizations such as the Institute of Certified Billing Analysts (ICBA) and certifies that an individual has the necessary knowledge to accurately analyze data related to billing, accounts receivable, invoice processing, and customer service. The certification also provides a comprehensive understanding of financial policies and procedures related to billing operations.

Having a billing analyst certification helps individuals become more marketable in their field, as employers often prefer hiring certified professionals who have taken the time to learn best practices for managing billing operations. With this certification, individuals can also demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and accuracy when it comes to analyzing data related to billing operations. Additionally, having a billing analyst certification may lead to increased job opportunities or promotions within the organization. Finally, individuals can use this certification as a way to stay up-to-date with current trends in billing operations and industry standards.

Pro Tip: Before committing to a billing analyst certification program, make sure to research the institution's accreditation status and its reputation in the industry. This will help ensure you are getting the best possible training for your career. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on experience with real-world billing scenarios, as this will allow you to gain valuable practical knowledge of the profession.

Related: What does a Billing Analyst do?

Top 11 Billing Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Billing Analysts today.

1. Certified Professional Billing Analyst (CPBA)

Certified Professional Billing Analyst (CPBA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in billing and accounts receivable management. The CPBA designation demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the areas of billing, accounts receivable management, and customer service.

The CPBA program consists of two parts: the online coursework and the final exam. The online coursework covers topics such as billing system setup, invoicing, payment processing, accounts receivable management, customer service best practices, and more. The final exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in the coursework.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the CPBA program depending on how much time you dedicate to it. To get started with the CPBA program, you must first register for an account on the Institute of Certified Professional Billing Analysts (ICPBA) website. Once registered, you can purchase access to the online coursework for $299 USD. After completing all of the coursework requirements and passing the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your Certified Professional Billing Analyst (CPBA) designation.

2. Certified Revenue Cycle Specialist (CRCS)

A Certified Revenue Cycle Specialist (CRCS) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the revenue cycle management field. The CRCS credential is awarded by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA).

The CRCS program requires applicants to complete an online assessment that includes multiple-choice questions and case studies. The assessment covers topics such as reimbursement, patient access, coding and compliance, billing and collections, managed care contracting, accounts receivable management, information technology, and data analytics.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive the results of the assessment after it has been submitted. To become certified, applicants must pass the assessment with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of obtaining the CRCS credential depends on whether or not you are an HFMA member. For non-members, the fee for taking the assessment is $495 USD; for members, it is $395 USD.

3. Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (CMBCS)

Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist (CMBCS) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in medical billing and coding. It is designed to ensure that medical bills are accurate and that the correct coding is used when submitting claims to insurance companies. The certification is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

To become a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist, you must complete an approved course of study in medical billing and coding, pass an exam administered by the AAPC, and maintain continuing education requirements. The course of study typically takes between six months to a year depending on the program.

The cost for becoming a Certified Medical Billing and Coding Specialist varies depending on the program chosen. Generally, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 for tuition and exam fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs for books or materials required for the program.

Once certified, CMBCS professionals are responsible for verifying patient information, coding diagnoses and procedures from medical records according to established guidelines, submitting claims to insurance companies, following up on unpaid claims, and resolving any discrepancies with payments received.

4. Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)

Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP) is a certification program offered by the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). The CHFP certification validates the knowledge and skills of healthcare finance professionals in financial management, accounting, budgeting, reimbursement, decision support systems, and other related areas.

The CHFP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of experience in healthcare finance or a related field. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as financial management principles, healthcare reimbursement systems, cost accounting for healthcare organizations, and more.

To become certified as a CHFP, applicants must first submit an application to HFMA. Once the application is approved, applicants will be required to register for the exam and pay an exam fee. The fee varies depending on whether you are an HFMA member or non-member; members pay $350 while non-members pay $450.

Once registered for the exam, applicants can begin studying for it using study materials provided by HFMA. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their CHFP certification. This process typically takes between two and four months from start to finish.

5. American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certification

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is a professional organization that provides certification and education to medical coders. The AAPC certification is a nationally recognized credential for medical coding professionals. It is designed to demonstrate competency in the field of medical coding and to provide employers with assurance that certified coders have the skills necessary to accurately code patient records.

To become certified, individuals must complete an approved training program, pass an exam, and meet continuing education requirements. The process typically takes six months or more, depending on the individual's experience level and the amount of time they are able to dedicate to studying.

The AAPC offers several different certification options based on experience level and specialty area. The most popular option is the Certified Professional Coder (CPC). This credential requires applicants to have at least two years of professional coding experience and pass a written exam that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM/PCS coding, HCPCS Level II coding, medical terminology, reimbursement methodologies, compliance regulations, and more.

The cost of obtaining an AAPC certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. For example, the CPC exam costs $399 for members ($499 for non-members). Additionally, there are fees associated with membership in the AAPC ($129/year), training courses ($500-$1000), study materials ($50-$100), practice exams ($50-$100), and continuing education requirements ($50-$75/year).

6. National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Medical Billing & Coding Certification

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Medical Billing & Coding Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful medical biller and coder. The program requires individuals to complete an online course, pass an exam, and maintain their certification.

It typically takes approximately 4-6 months to complete the NHA Medical Billing & Coding Certification program. To get certified, individuals must first register for the program through the NHA website. After registering, they will be given access to an online course which includes lessons on medical terminology, coding systems, insurance claims processing, and more. Once the course is completed, individuals must pass an exam in order to become certified.

The cost of the NHA Medical Billing & Coding Certification program varies depending on whether you are taking it as an individual or as part of a group. For individuals, the cost is $299 for the online course and $139 for the exam. For groups of 5 or more people, there is a discounted rate of $249 for the online course and $99 for each exam taken.

7. American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certified Coding Associate

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential is a nationally recognized certification for health information management professionals. The CCA credential is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively apply coding principles and practices in the medical coding field.

It typically takes about six months of study to prepare for the CCA exam. To get certified, you must pass an exam administered by AHIMA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, coding systems, reimbursement methodologies, legal aspects of healthcare documentation, and more.

To be eligible for the CCA exam, you must have either an associate degree or a postsecondary certificate in health information technology from an accredited program. You must also have completed at least one year of professional experience in coding or related areas within the past five years.

The cost of taking the CCA exam varies depending on your location and whether you are a member of AHIMA or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $300-$400 USD to take the exam without membership discounts.

8. American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Biller

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Biller (CPB) is a certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform medical billing tasks. The CPB certification is designed to help coders demonstrate their proficiency in medical coding, billing, reimbursement, and other related areas.

To become certified as a CPB, an individual must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the AAPC. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding concepts, insurance regulations and reimbursement systems. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in medical billing or coding.

It typically takes about four weeks to prepare for the CPB exam. Applicants should review relevant material from the AAPC’s website or purchase study guides from third-party vendors. It is also recommended that applicants take practice exams to familiarize themselves with the format of the actual exam.

The cost of taking the CPB exam varies depending on whether you are an AAPC member or not. For non-members, the fee is $399; for members, it is $299. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with purchasing study materials or taking practice exams.

Once you have successfully passed the CPB exam, you will receive your certification in approximately four weeks after completing all requirements. You will then be able to use your credentials to demonstrate your expertise in medical coding and billing practices to potential employers or clients.

9. American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certified Coding Specialist

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential is a professional certification for individuals who demonstrate proficiency in the coding of medical diagnoses and procedures. The CCS credential is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of medical coding.

It typically takes six months or more to prepare for the CCS exam. To get started, you will need to complete an AHIMA-approved course in medical coding, such as an Associate’s degree in Health Information Technology or a Certificate Program in Medical Coding. After completing the required coursework, you can then apply to take the CCS exam.

The cost to take the CCS exam varies depending on your location and whether you are taking it online or at a physical testing center. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $300-$400 USD. In addition to this fee, there may also be additional fees for any required study materials or other related expenses.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist credential and be eligible for employment opportunities with hospitals, health care organizations, insurance companies, and other health information management organizations across the country.

10. National Institute for Certification in Healthcare Finance and Accounting (NICFAA) Certification

The National Institute for Certification in Healthcare Finance and Accounting (NICFAA) is a professional organization that provides certification in healthcare finance and accounting. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage the financial operations of healthcare organizations.

The NICFAA certification program consists of four levels: Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP), Certified Healthcare Business Professional (CHBP), Certified Healthcare Controller (CHC), and Certified Healthcare Auditor (CHA). Each level requires a different set of qualifications and experience, as well as passing an exam.

The CHFP certification requires at least two years of experience in healthcare finance or accounting, while the CHBP requires at least three years of experience in healthcare business management. The CHC requires at least five years of experience in healthcare financial management, while the CHA requires at least seven years of experience in healthcare auditing or internal control.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for each level of certification. The process includes studying for the exams, completing coursework, submitting an application, and taking the exam.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NICFAA. For members, it costs $395 for the CHFP certification; $495 for the CHBP certification; $595 for the CHC certification; and $695 for the CHA certification. For non-members, it costs $545 for the CHFP certification; $645 for the CHBP certification; $745 for the CHC certification; and $845 for the CHA certification.

11. National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the use of electronic health records. The CEHRS credential is intended for those who are responsible for managing, maintaining, and implementing electronic health records systems.

It typically takes about four months to complete the NHA CEHRS program. To get certified, applicants must first pass a 90-minute exam with at least 70% accuracy. The exam covers topics such as data security, patient privacy, and data management. After passing the exam, applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience working with electronic health records systems.

The cost of the NHA CEHRS certification varies depending on the type of membership you choose. For non-members, it is $299 for the exam and $99 for the portfolio review fee. For members, it is $199 for the exam and $49 for the portfolio review fee.

Overall, obtaining this certification can be beneficial to healthcare professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in using electronic health records systems. It can also help employers identify qualified candidates when hiring new employees or promoting existing ones.

Do You Really Need a Billing Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what your goal is. If you want to become a billing analyst, then obtaining a certificate in billing analysis can be beneficial. A certificate program can give you an edge in the job market and provide you with additional knowledge and skills that will help you excel in the field.

Certification programs for billing analysts typically include courses on topics such as accounting, finance, and business operations. You’ll learn about invoicing, collections, accounts receivable, accounts payable, insurance claims processing and more. A certification program can also provide you with hands-on experience working with specific software applications used by billing analysts. This can make it easier to transition into a new role or to find employment at companies that use those particular software programs.

If you already have experience working as a billing analyst or have other relevant qualifications, then obtaining a certification may not be necessary. However, if you are just starting out in the field or looking to expand your knowledge base and skillset, then pursuing a certification could be beneficial in helping you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs. It could also open up opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries down the line.

Related: Billing Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Billing Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a billing analyst certification?

A1. A billing analyst certification is a credential that demonstrates proficiency in the field of billing and accounts receivable management. It typically involves completing a course or program that covers topics such as accounting principles, financial analysis, customer service, and communication skills.

Q2. How do I become certified as a billing analyst?

A2. To become certified as a billing analyst, you must complete an approved program or course of study and pass an exam demonstrating your knowledge of the subject matter. Some certifications require additional experience or education beyond the basic requirements.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified billing analyst?

A3. Becoming a certified billing analyst can help you stand out from other job applicants and demonstrate your expertise in this field to potential employers. It can also lead to higher pay, more career opportunities, and greater job security.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified billing analyst?

A4. Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least two years of relevant work experience before they can apply for certification as a billing analyst. Additionally, some certifying bodies may require completion of certain courses or exams prior to taking the certification exam itself.

Q5. How long does it take to become certified as a billing analyst?

A5 The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the certifying organization you choose and how much time you have available to study for the certification exam(s). Generally speaking, most certifications require at least three months of preparation before taking the exam(s).