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In Arizona’s healthcare ecosystem, medical billing and coding professionals act as the silent orchestrators, ensuring accurate diagnosis coding in patient charts and proper insurance billing, which in turn facilitates timely reimbursement for physicians. This dynamic career path boasts a diverse range of responsibilities and lucrative earning potential. Therefore, navigating the state’s salary landscape is crucial for making informed decisions regarding your educational journey in this field.
Snapshot of medical billing and coding in AZ
There are roughly 3,710 people employed as medical records specialists in the state of Arizona, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a significant number of medical billers and coders and since Arizona has a high retiree population and this demographic tends to require more medical care and procedures, jobs should be steady. The median wage per hour is $23, making Arizona below the national mean of $24.10 per hour for medical records specialists, though the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is 8.5%, faster than the national average.
Some of the biggest employers in hospitals and healthcare and specific medical billing solutions companies in Arizona include:
- Mayo Clinic-Phoenix:
- Phoenix, AZ. Ranked number one by U.S. News & World Report for Best Hospitals in Arizona, with national rankings in 10 adult specialties.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona:
- Phoenix, AZ. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona offers health insurance and related services to more than 1.5 million customers.
- OrthoArizona:
- Gilbert and San Tan Valley, AZ. A medical group practice primarily located in Gilbert, AZ that specializes in orthopedic surgery and orthopedic hand surgery.
- Banner Boswell Medical Center:
- Sun City, AZ. Ranked number two in the state by U.S. News & World Report for Best Hospitals in Arizona, with high-performing rankings in 11 procedures/conditions.
- Banner Health:
- Phoenix, AZ. A health staffing service that specifically caters to billers and coders and offers medical professionals the opportunity to work remotely in some cases.
Salary statistics for medical billing and coding in AZ
In Arizona, medical records specialists, which include medical billers and coders, have a wide range of salaries depending on experience, location and other factors. While their median national salary is just over $48,700 a year, it can vary significantly depending on several factors, including where you work and live, how much experience you have and what certifications you have earned.
Median medical biller and coder salary in Arizona
In Arizona, the typical yearly income for professionals in medical billing and coding stands at $48,460, which falls just below the median for the entire country. This figure can fluctuate depending on various factors including one’s professional experience, educational background, the sector they work in, and their specific geographic location within Arizona. For instance, working in major urban areas like Phoenix or Tucson might yield a higher salary compared to employment in smaller municipalities like Prescott Valley or Avondale, where the cost of living is generally lower.
Medical Records Specialists
10%$36,150
25%$39,410
50%$48,460Median
75%$58,870
90%$65,430
Median Hourly Wage$23
Job growth8.5%
Total Employment3,710
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yuma, AZ | $52,310 | $33,070 | $68,600 |
| Flagstaff, AZ | $51,210 | $40,310 | $77,440 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ | $50,240 | $36,990 | $64,530 |
| Prescott, AZ | $48,880 | $36,590 | $75,560 |
| Tucson, AZ | $48,100 | $35,550 | $67,700 |
| Sierra Vista-Douglas, AZ | $46,200 | $34,970 | $63,070 |
| Lake Havasu City-Kingman, AZ | $45,500 | $32,520 | $65,430 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2023 median salary; projected job growth through 2032. Actual salaries may vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range for medical billing and coding in Arizona
The salary range for medical billing and coding professionals in Arizona typically spans from $36,150 to $65,430 per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration other factors such as experience, education and time in the position.
Employment by Arizona metro area
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within a state. For example, cities tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas. If your city is an industry hub, say for example you work in healthcare and you live in the largest city in the state—Phoenix—that has a couple of highly ranked hospitals, pay may be more competitive. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as the highest employment numbers for the top 10 cities in the U.S.
AZ salary growth and job outlook
With a job growth rate of 8.5% through 2032, Arizona is a solid prospect for medical billers and coders. Though it isn’t ranked in the top five for employment and its median pay, is somewhat under the national median for the country, Arizona is still an appealing place to consider setting down roots. The state also boasts a substantial forecast for growth. And with a lower cost of living than states such as California and New Jersey, which pay more but are expensive to live in, the salary you may be able to earn will go further.
Factors affecting billing and coding salaries in AZ
Several factors can influence the salary potential in the medical billing and coding field in the state of Arizona. These factors may include:
- Experience:
- The number of years of experience you have in the healthcare or medical billing and coding industry can significantly impact your earning potential. Entry-level professionals may start at a lower salary, while those with extensive experience and expertise can command higher salaries.
- Education and certifications:
- The level of education you have achieved and any relevant professional credentials can contribute to your salary. Advanced degrees and specialized certifications may result in higher earning potential.
- Industry and company size:
- The industry you work in and the size of the company can affect salary ranges. Certain industries may offer higher compensation, and larger companies often have more resources to provide competitive salaries.
- Geographic location and cost of living:
- Salaries can vary significantly depending on the location within Arizona. Urban areas and regions with higher costs of living typically offer higher salaries to compensate for the increased expenses. It’s essential to consider the cost of living when assessing salary offers and opportunities.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a medical biller and coder in Arizona?
There are several ways you can pursue resolution if you think your pay is not equitable, and you might consider these tips if you are concerned about your salary level:
- Do your research. Research employment and job sites such as Glassdoor and Payscale to see what the salary averages are in your city and/or state. Use the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website to find median pay for cities, states and nationally.
- Be observant in your workplace. Do you see some people receiving special privileges, such as bonuses or additional benefits? Could it be possible that they are receiving more for doing the same job? Consider their (and your) length of employment and equity of duties as well.
- Be transparent in the right way. If you believe a wage imbalance exists between you and another employee doing the same job, ask your manager or company HR manager about it directly. It’s always best to be transparent, but you should try and utilize the correct channels. Most employers frown upon employees discussing their pay levels with each other.
There are federal laws that protect workers regarding pay, and each state has protective laws as well. Medical billers and coders in Arizona are protected by the Arizona Equal Pay Law and the Fair Labor Standards Act, which promote some protective equal pay legislation.
Arizona education and training
The educational requirements for medical billing and coding professionals in Arizona can vary based on the specific role and employer. However, a typical educational pathway may include:
- You can either complete a recognized certificate program in medical billing and coding or pursue a full degree such as an associate or bachelor’s. There may also be accelerated learning options online.
- Register for and prepare to take the AAPC’s CPC professional certification exam. Once you pass the exam you earn the Certified Professional Coder credential in Arizona. There are other options available as far as certificates, such as the Certified Outpatient Coder (COC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCP) and Certified Coding Associate (CCA). The CCP and CCA exams are offered by AHIMA.
- Medical billers and coders are not required to be licensed in Arizona, but the majority of employers prefer employees to hold certification.
Additionally, ongoing professional development, advanced certifications and industry-specific training can significantly contribute to your knowledge and advancement within the medical billing and coding field.
Cost of living considerations for AZ
When evaluating medical billing and coding salaries in different areas of Arizona, it’s crucial to consider the cost of living. The cost of housing, transportation, health care and other expenses can vary across cities or regions within the state. Assessing the cost of living helps you gauge how salaries align with local expenses and make more informed decisions about job opportunities or potential relocation.
Arizona has a 6% higher cost of living than other states in the U.S. says Rent Cafe. Of its seven largest cities, four have a higher cost of living and three are below the national average:
Higher than the national average:
- Lake Havasu City, AZ
- Scottsdale, AZ
- Phoenix, AZ
- Tucson, AZ
Lower than the national average:
- Bullhead City, AZ
- Sierra Vista, AZ
- Surprise, AZ
Of note is Avenir Behavioral Health Canter, which ranked on the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals in Arizona survey, is in Surprise which boasts a 1% less cost of living than the national average, and Canyon Vista Medical Center in Sierra Vista, and which also made the list, is 9% less cost of living than the national average.
Arizona professional associations and networking
Joining focused national chapters, state or local professional associations, networking groups, or industry events that cater to medical billing and coding and other health information professionals in Arizona may help you connect with local communities, access resources, and stay updated on industry developments within your state.
Here are just a couple of groups to consider following or joining:
- Arizona Health Information Management Association: This is the Arizona chapter of AHIMA, offering member discounts, education, resources and networking with local and national members.
- BC Advantage: This group is based in Gilbert, AZ, and offers a magazine and meetups and best medical practices for billers and coders.
- American Medical Billing Association: A national group that offers membership, continuing education, conferences and certificates.
The medical billing and coding salary guide for Arizona aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape and key information regarding this healthcare profession. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path, negotiate salaries and for setting realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.
Written and reported by:
All Allied Health Schools Staff
Published: December 7, 2023