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Medical Office Manager Programs in Gilbert, Arizona

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Gilbert, Arizona

Embarking on a career as a Medical Office Manager in Gilbert, Arizona, offers a rewarding pathway in healthcare administration. Medical Office Managers, also known as Certified Physician Practice Managers (CPPM), play a central role in the smooth operation of medical practices. These professionals oversee billing, compliance, human resources, scheduling, and the financial health of physician offices. There are multiple education paths to enter this field, ranging from certificate programs and associate degrees to specialized certification courses such as the CPPM.

This guide will detail how to become a Medical Office Manager in Gilbert, outline local educational opportunities, discuss certification requirements, and highlight employment prospects in the region.

About Gilbert, Arizona

Located southeast of Phoenix, Gilbert has transformed from an agricultural community into one of Arizona’s fastest-growing towns. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and access to healthcare resources, Gilbert is home to attractions like the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch and the Heritage District. The Town of Gilbert provides residents with a robust healthcare infrastructure, making it a prime location for aspiring healthcare administrators.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Gilbert, Arizona

While there are limited Medical Office Manager programs directly within Gilbert, several nearby institutions offer relevant training for healthcare administration and medical practice management. Here are three accessible options for residents:

1. Maricopa Corporate College (Online, based in Maricopa County)

  • Program: Medical Office Manager Training Program (WIOA-approved)
  • Location: Online (serving Gilbert and all Arizona residents)
  • Description: This comprehensive 34-week, 322-hour program prepares students for multiple credentials including Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS), and Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS). It covers computer skills, healthcare law, billing, electronic medical records, and customer service.
  • Cost: $4,199
  • Contact: Vanessa Plummer, 480-377-2700 or [email protected]
  • Maricopa Corporate College Medical Office Manager Training

2. Coconino Community College (Flagstaff, AZ – approximately 150 miles from Gilbert, Online Option Available)

  • Program: Medical Office Manager (CPPM) Certification Training (Online)
  • Location: Flagstaff, AZ, but fully online and available to Gilbert residents
  • Description: This program combines coursework in medical terminology, Microsoft Office, CMAA, CEHRS, and CPPM preparation. It is designed for those with at least two years of healthcare experience but is open to all. Includes exam vouchers and AAPC membership.
  • Coconino Community College CPPM Training

3. Maricopa Community Colleges – Health Services Management AAS (Multiple campuses, closest in Chandler, ~10 miles from Gilbert)

  • Program: Health Services Management Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
  • Location: Chandler-Gilbert Community College and other Maricopa campuses
  • Description: This associate degree prepares students for supervisory and management roles in healthcare organizations, emphasizing leadership, compliance, and operational management.
  • Chandler-Gilbert Community College Health Services Management

Note: For those looking for flexible, fully online options, both the Maricopa Corporate College and Coconino Community College programs offer remote learning suited to working professionals.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Gilbert

Gilbert and the surrounding East Valley are home to a diverse range of healthcare employers, from large hospital systems to outpatient clinics and specialty practices. Here are several major local employers:

Banner Gateway Medical Center (Gateway neighborhood)

  • About: A full-service, 286-bed hospital serving the East Valley with specialties in oncology, surgery, and women’s health.
  • Employment: Offers administrative, management, and support roles.
  • Banner Gateway Medical Center Careers

Dignity Health Mercy Gilbert Medical Center (South Gilbert)

  • About: A 212-bed acute care hospital known for its family birthing center, emergency care, and heart and vascular center.
  • Employment: Regularly seeks office managers, patient access supervisors, and administrative coordinators.
  • Mercy Gilbert Medical Center Careers

Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center (On Banner Gateway Campus)

Other notable employers include the Town of Gilbert, fast-growing outpatient clinics, specialty practices, and urgent care centers throughout the community.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

While specific prerequisites can vary by program, most Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration programs require:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum age of 18
  • Basic computer proficiency
  • Background check (often required for clinical internships or externships)
  • Prior healthcare experience is preferred, especially for CPPM certification, but not always required for entry-level study
  • Work experience in a medical office (1–2 years) may enhance job prospects for management-track positions

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

The most recognized credential for Medical Office Managers is the Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM), administered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

CPPM Certification Requirements:

  • Completion of a CPPM preparation course (recommended but not mandatory)
  • Passing the CPPM exam (135 multiple-choice questions, 4 hours, 70% minimum passing score)
  • AAPC membership (required to sit for the exam and maintain certification)
  • Continuing education: 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every 2 years, with at least 16 CEUs in practice management
  • Exam cost: $399 for one attempt; $499 for two attempts (as of 2024)

Other relevant organizations for ongoing professional development include:

Get Started Today

The healthcare sector in Gilbert, Arizona, is expanding and presents strong opportunities for those pursuing a career in medical office management. By enrolling in a Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration program and preparing for the CPPM certification, you can position yourself for a fulfilling and stable career. Contact a local school today to learn more about program options and take the next step toward your future in healthcare administration.

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