Medical Billing and Coding Programs in Idaho

Idaho's healthcare market is growing alongside the state's rapid population increase. Idaho was among the fastest-growing states in the U.S. from 2020 to 2024, and that growth has pushed healthcare demand higher across the board. The Boise-Nampa metropolitan area is the primary hub for healthcare employment, though regional hospitals in Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Twin Falls, and Coeur d'Alene also employ medical billing and coding professionals.

St. Luke's Health System is the largest private employer in Idaho, operating hospitals and clinics across the Treasure Valley and the Magic Valley. Saint Alphonsus Health System (part of Trinity Health) is the other major health system based in Boise. These two organizations, along with Primary Health Medical Group and a network of community health centers serving rural areas, generate the bulk of coding and billing work in the state.

Idaho doesn't have campus-based medical billing and coding programs listed in the major national databases (IPEDS, AAPC training directory). If you're an Idaho resident pursuing this career, you'll primarily enroll in accredited online programs that accept students from all 50 states.

Several nationally recognized online programs serve Idaho students well: Ultimate Medical Academy (fully online, one of the largest MBC programs by enrollment), Western Governors University (headquartered in neighboring Utah, $7,710/yr, competency-based and self-paced), Penn Foster ($1,049 to $1,869, self-paced career diploma, one of the most affordable entry points), and Purdue University Global ($10,080/yr, structured online programs with tutoring and career advising).

When you're selecting an online program, verify that it covers the core curriculum: ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS Level II, medical terminology, anatomy, and healthcare reimbursement. Programs with a practicum or coding externship provide the hands-on experience that employers look for. See our online programs guide for a detailed comparison.

Idaho doesn't require a state license to practice medical billing and coding. The field is governed by national certifications, and virtually all healthcare employers in the state expect you to hold at least one recognized credential. The three most common entry-level certifications are the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) from AAPC, the CCA (Certified Coding Associate) from AHIMA, and the CBCS (Certified Billing and Coding Specialist) from NHA.

The CPC is the most frequently listed credential in Idaho job postings, particularly for outpatient and physician-office coding roles. Nationally, AAPC data shows that certified professionals earn an average of $66,979 per year, compared to $55,721 for uncertified workers. In Idaho, where the average salary is $59,788, earning a certification can help push your earnings above $65,000 with a few years of experience. For a full breakdown, see our certification comparison.

Medical billing and coding professionals in Idaho earn an average of $59,788 per year, or approximately $28.74 per hour (AAPC 2023 Salary Survey). That's about 19% above the national BLS median of $50,250. Idaho's cost of living is moderate compared to neighboring states like Washington and Oregon, so that salary premium translates into solid purchasing power.

Experience and certification are the primary drivers of salary growth. Entry-level coders in Idaho typically start in the $42,000 to $50,000 range, while certified professionals with 5+ years of experience can earn $60,000 to $70,000. Remote coders working for out-of-state employers may earn higher rates, particularly those with specialty coding skills. AAPC data shows that professionals holding three or more certifications average $81,227 nationally. For full salary data, see our salary guide.

Idaho's healthcare sector has expanded steadily with the state's population growth. St. Luke's Health System and Saint Alphonsus Health System are the two largest employers of medical billing and coding professionals, with operations concentrated in the Boise metropolitan area. Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (Idaho Falls) and Kootenai Health (Coeur d'Alene) are significant employers in the eastern and northern parts of the state.

Beyond hospitals, physician practices, community health centers, and third-party billing companies hire medical coders throughout the state. Remote work has been particularly beneficial for Idaho residents in rural areas. With approximately 64.8% of medical records specialists working remotely (AAPC 2025), you can access job opportunities with healthcare systems and revenue cycle management firms across the country without relocating.