Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Alaska

Alaska's healthcare system operates under conditions found nowhere else in the United States. The state's vast geography, small population (approximately 733,000 residents), and limited road infrastructure create unique challenges for healthcare delivery and the administrative staff who support it. Medical billing and coding professionals play a critical role in keeping revenue flowing to hospitals, clinics, and tribal health organizations spread across a state larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined.

The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) and the Southcentral Foundation together operate one of the largest tribal health systems in the country. These organizations, along with Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage and Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, are among the state's largest healthcare employers. They need trained coders who understand federal healthcare billing requirements, including the unique reimbursement structures associated with Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal 638 facilities.

Alaska's high cost of living is reflected in its above-average salaries. Medical coders in the state earn roughly 40% more than the national median, though housing and transportation costs offset some of that premium. For a broader look at the field, see What Is Medical Billing and Coding?

Alaska has one IPEDS-reported medical billing and coding training program: Charter College in Anchorage. It's a private for-profit institution offering a program with both online and on-campus components at approximately $18,075 per year. The curriculum covers ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS Level II, medical terminology, anatomy, and healthcare billing procedures.

Given Alaska's limited local options, many residents pursue training through online programs that offer lower tuition and flexible scheduling. Nationally accredited options include Ultimate Medical Academy (the largest MBC program by completions), Penn Foster (self-paced career diploma, $1,049-$1,869), Western Governors University ($7,710/year, competency-based), and Purdue University Global ($10,080/year). These programs prepare you for the same certification exams and are recognized by employers nationwide.

When comparing programs, look for curricula that cover all three major code sets (ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS Level II), include hands-on coding practice with real medical records, and are approved by AAPC or accredited by AHIMA's CAHIIM. For a complete walkthrough, see How to Become a Medical Biller and Coder.

Alaska doesn't require a state license or registration to work in medical billing and coding. Certification is voluntary but effectively required by most employers. The CPC from AAPC ($425-$499) is the most widely held credential. The CCA from AHIMA ($199-$299) is an accessible entry point for career changers. The CBCS from NHA (~$117) is the most affordable option.

Certified professionals earn substantially more than their uncertified peers. AAPC data shows certified coders average $62,689 per year nationally, and those with three or more certifications average $84,414. In a high-cost state like Alaska, that certification premium can make a meaningful difference in your financial situation. For the full comparison, see our certification guide.

Medical billing and coding professionals in Alaska earn an average of $70,288 per year, or approximately $33.79 per hour (AAPC, 2024). That's roughly $20,000 above the national BLS median of $50,250. Anchorage, home to more than 40% of Alaska's population, offers the most positions and generally the highest pay within the state.

Coders working for tribal health organizations may receive additional benefits including housing assistance, relocation support, and federal employee health coverage. Nationally, the BLS projects 7% employment growth for medical records specialists from 2024 to 2034. Alaska's small population limits the total number of positions, but retirements, healthcare expansion, and persistent workforce shortages mean qualified coders face strong demand. For a detailed breakdown, see our Salary Guide.

Alaska's healthcare employers include Providence Alaska Medical Center (the state's largest hospital), Fairbanks Memorial Hospital, Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, and Southcentral Foundation. Tribal health facilities represent a unique opportunity since the Alaska Tribal Health System serves over 170,000 Alaska Native and American Indian people across a network of hospitals, clinics, and village health stations.

Remote work dramatically expands your options as an Alaska-based coder. With roughly 65.7% of medical coders working from home (AAPC, 2024), you can pursue positions with national employers like Optum, Datavant, and Aviacode without leaving the state. This is particularly valuable given Alaska's small local job market. For more, see our remote jobs guide.