Medical Office Manager Programs in Anchorage, Alaska

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Anchorage, Alaska

Exploring a career as a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Anchorage, Alaska offers a unique opportunity to lead within the rapidly evolving healthcare administration sector. Medical Office Managers, also known as Certified Physician Practice Managers (CPPMs), are essential for ensuring the smooth operation of medical practices, clinics, and healthcare facilities. These professionals oversee administrative processes, manage staff, coordinate billing and compliance, and serve as the backbone for medical practice management.

Individuals interested in becoming a Medical Office Manager in Anchorage can pursue various education paths, including certificate programs, associate degrees in healthcare administration, and specialized training courses. Earning nationally recognized certification, such as the CPPM from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), further validates expertise and opens doors to career advancement.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of local training options, employment opportunities, prerequisites, and certification requirements for aspiring Medical Office Managers in Anchorage, Alaska.

About Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, serving as the commercial, transportation, and healthcare hub of the state. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet, Anchorage is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse neighborhoods such as Midtown, Downtown, and South Addition, and a thriving medical community. The city’s official website, anchorageak.gov, offers resources for residents and visitors alike.

Home to major hospitals, specialty clinics, and tribal health organizations, Anchorage is a prime location for careers in healthcare administration and medical practice management. Its dynamic healthcare sector supports a growing need for skilled Medical Office Managers who can navigate regulatory requirements and support efficient, patient-centered care.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage offers several options for individuals seeking training in healthcare administration and medical office management. While dedicated Medical Office Manager programs are limited, local colleges and online providers deliver comprehensive education pathways:

1. Alaska Career College — Midtown Anchorage

• Program: Medical Office Administrative Assistant Diploma
• Description: Alaska Career College’s program prepares students for entry-level roles in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals. The curriculum covers medical records management, billing, coding, insurance processing, medical terminology, and electronic health records. Students can complete the diploma in as little as nine months. The college is located in Midtown Anchorage, making it accessible to residents throughout the city.

2. University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) — U-Med District

• Program: Health Sciences and Healthcare Administration
• Description: UAA’s College of Health offers degree and certificate programs in health sciences, healthcare administration, and medical assisting. These programs provide foundational knowledge in health systems, management, and regulatory compliance, equipping students for administrative and managerial roles in healthcare. The campus is situated in the U-Med District near several major hospitals.

3. Charter College — Online (Anchorage Area)

• Program: Certificate in Medical Office Administrative Assistant
• Description: Charter College’s flexible, online certificate program is designed for individuals seeking entry-level positions in medical office management. The coursework covers medical terminology, office procedures, regulatory compliance, and billing. This program is accessible to Anchorage residents and can be completed in as little as ten months.

Additional Options Nearby

If you are open to online study, national providers such as ed2go offer comprehensive Medical Office Manager training. For those willing to consider programs outside Anchorage, the nearest in-person options are typically located in other major cities in the Pacific Northwest, such as Seattle, WA (over 1,400 miles away), so local and online programs are recommended for most Anchorage residents.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Anchorage

Anchorage’s robust healthcare infrastructure creates a wealth of employment opportunities for Medical Office Managers. Major facilities include:

Providence Alaska Medical Center — U-Med District

• Providence Alaska Careers
• Description: As the largest hospital in Alaska, Providence Alaska Medical Center employs hundreds of administrative professionals. The facility regularly posts openings for medical office managers, practice coordinators, and healthcare administrators.

Alaska Native Medical Center (ANMC) — U-Med District

• ANMC Careers
• Description: ANMC, operated by the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, is a comprehensive healthcare facility serving Anchorage and rural Alaska. The center employs Medical Office Managers to oversee clinic operations, billing, and patient services.

Southcentral Foundation — Tudor Centre

• Southcentral Foundation Careers
• Description: This award-winning Alaska Native-owned healthcare organization provides primary care, behavioral health, and specialty services. Southcentral Foundation offers administrative and management roles for certified professionals in medical office management.

Other notable employers include the Alaska Department of Health, local specialty clinics, and private medical practices throughout neighborhoods such as Downtown, Midtown, and East Anchorage.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

Before enrolling in a Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration program in Anchorage, applicants should be aware of typical prerequisites:

• Education: High school diploma or GED
• Minimum Age: Generally 18 years or older
• Background Check: Most programs and employers require a criminal background check
• Entrance Exams: Some colleges may require placement testing in English or math
• Work Experience: Not always required for entry-level programs, but recommended or required for advanced certifications
• Technical Skills: Basic computer literacy is essential

Meeting these prerequisites ensures successful entry into training programs and prepares candidates for future certification and employment.

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

Certification sets Medical Office Managers apart in a competitive job market. The most recognized credential is the Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM), offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

CPPM Certification Overview:

• Eligibility: Recommended for those with experience in healthcare administration or medical office management.
• Exam: 135 multiple-choice questions covering business operations, compliance, human resources, billing, revenue cycle, and more. The exam can be taken online or at a proctored center.
• Cost: $399 for one exam attempt or $499 for two attempts. AAPC offers online preparation courses starting at $1,195.
• Pass Rate: 80% of AAPC students pass on their first attempt.
• Continuing Education: 36 continuing education units (CEUs) required every two years to maintain certification.

Other Certifications:

• Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM): Focuses on office operations, compliance, and staff management.
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Entry-level credential for administrative assistants.
• AHIMA Certifications: For those interested in health information management and coding.

Certification is strongly recommended for career advancement and is often required by top employers in Anchorage.

Get Started Today

A rewarding career as a Medical Office Manager in Anchorage, Alaska begins with the right education and a commitment to professional growth. Whether you are starting your journey or seeking advancement through certification, local colleges and online programs provide accessible pathways to success. Take the next step by exploring program options and contacting a school to learn more about enrollment and training. Your future in healthcare administration starts now.

For more information on job outlook and salary data, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Medical and Health Services Managers.