Medical Office Manager Programs in San Bernardino, California

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in San Bernardino, California

Considering a career as a Medical Office Manager in San Bernardino, California? Medical office managers—often known as Certified Physician Practice Managers (CPPM)—play a vital role in healthcare administration, overseeing the business operations of medical practices, clinics, and healthcare organizations. This guide explores the education and certification paths available, local training programs, employment opportunities, and key resources to help you launch a successful career in medical practice management.

Medical office management offers multiple pathways to entry. Many professionals pursue certification such as the CPPM (offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders), CMOM (Certified Medical Office Manager, offered by the Practice Management Institute), or similar credentials. Others may complete associate or bachelor’s degrees in healthcare administration, public health, or business management. This profession rewards those with both formal education and hands-on experience in healthcare settings.

About San Bernardino

San Bernardino is the heart of California’s Inland Empire and the seat of San Bernardino County. Known for its proximity to the San Bernardino Mountains, the city is a gateway to outdoor recreation while maintaining a robust healthcare sector. San Bernardino encompasses diverse neighborhoods such as Arrowhead, Del Rosa, and Muscoy, alongside major hubs like downtown and the Medical Center area. Learn more about the city on the official San Bernardino website.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in San Bernardino, California

San Bernardino and its surrounding communities provide a range of options for those seeking education in healthcare administration and medical office management. Below are three local and regional training opportunities:

1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) – Medical Office Administration Program

Location: Northpark neighborhood, San Bernardino
Program Overview: This comprehensive program combines medical terminology, Microsoft Office skills, and preparation for the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS), and CPPM certifications. Students receive study guides, practice exams, AAPC membership, and exam vouchers. Workforce funding and military benefits may be available.
Experiential Learning: Includes an unpaid work experience opportunity.
Learn More: CSUSB Medical Office Administration Program

2. National Career College (NCC) – Healthcare Administration Program

Location: Online program; main campus in Panorama City, Los Angeles County (approximately 70 miles from San Bernardino)
Program Overview: Offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Healthcare Administration, covering medical terminology, healthcare law, and business management—key foundations for medical office management roles. The program is 100% online and accredited.
Financial Aid: Available for those who qualify.
Learn More: NCC Healthcare Administration Program

3. AAPC CPPM Online Training Course

Location: Online (accessible from San Bernardino)
Program Overview: Self-paced online course preparing students for the CPPM exam, covering compliance, revenue cycle, HR, health information, and business processes.
Requirements: High-speed internet and computer; two years of healthcare experience strongly recommended.
Learn More: AAPC Practice Management Course

> Note: While San Bernardino offers a strong local program through CSUSB, nearby and online options expand your choices—especially if flexibility or degree pathways are important to you.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in San Bernardino

San Bernardino is home to several major healthcare employers that frequently seek qualified medical office managers and healthcare administrators. These organizations span hospital systems, outpatient clinics, and specialty practices.

1. Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC)

Neighborhood: Colton (adjacent to San Bernardino)
About: A county-owned, university-affiliated medical center with over 4,000 employees and 400 physicians. Specializes in acute care, trauma, stroke, and burn services.
Careers: ARMC Careers
Contact: 877.873.2762

2. Loma Linda University Health

Neighborhood: Loma Linda (bordering San Bernardino)
About: Operates six hospitals and numerous clinics, including Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. Renowned for specialty care, academic medicine, and research.
Careers: Loma Linda University Health Careers
Contact: 909-558-4000

3. Dignity Health – St. Bernardine Medical Center

Neighborhood: Near downtown San Bernardino
About: A leading nonprofit hospital known for its heart and vascular institute, orthopedics, and high-volume surgical programs. Over 72,000 annual ER visits.
Careers: St. Bernardine Medical Center Jobs
Contact: 909.475.5024

4. Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino Medical Offices

Neighborhood: Multiple locations throughout San Bernardino
About: Integrated healthcare system offering primary, specialty, and preventive care.
Careers: Kaiser Permanente San Bernardino Jobs

These major employers are complemented by numerous clinics, specialty practices, and outpatient centers throughout the city and county. Explore additional opportunities using job search platforms and by networking with local professional organizations.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

Before enrolling in a medical office manager or healthcare administration program, expect the following prerequisites:

Education: High school diploma or GED required for most certificate and degree programs.
Experience: Many certification programs (such as the CPPM and CMOM) recommend or require at least 1–2 years of healthcare experience. Entry-level programs may accept those with less experience.
Age: Minimum age is typically 18.
Background Check: Some programs or employers may require a criminal background check, especially for positions involving patient data or billing.
Entrance Exams: Select programs may require basic skills assessment or placement testing.
Technical Requirements: Online courses require reliable internet and a compatible computer.

Always review the specific requirements of each program or credentialing organization before applying.

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

Certification demonstrates advanced competency and professionalism in medical practice management. The following are the most recognized credentials for medical office managers in San Bernardino and California:

Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) – AAPC

Overview: Validates expertise in managing physician practice operations, compliance, revenue cycle, HR, and business processes.
Eligibility: Two years of healthcare experience strongly recommended.
Exam: 135 multiple-choice questions, 4 hours, proctored (online or at a testing center).
Maintenance: Maintain AAPC membership and complete 36 continuing education units every two years.
Learn More: AAPC CPPM Certification

Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) – Practice Management Institute (PMI)

Overview: Focuses on practice administration, personnel management, financial management, compliance, and payment models.
Eligibility: Minimum of one year of medical practice experience recommended.
Exam: Three-hour proctored exam (online), 70% passing score.
Maintenance: 12 continuing education units required annually.
Learn More: PMI CMOM Certification

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) & Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) – National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Overview: CMAA covers front-office administration; CEHRS focuses on electronic health records management.
Eligibility: High school diploma/GED and medical admin/health records experience or training.
Exam: Administered via PSI testing center, school, or remote proctoring.
Maintenance: 10 CE credits every two years; recertification fee applies.
Learn More: NHA CMAA, NHA CEHRS

Additional Professional Organizations and Resources

Get Started Today

The demand for skilled medical office managers and certified physician practice managers continues to grow in San Bernardino and across California. With options ranging from local university programs to flexible online certifications, you have the ability to tailor your education to your career goals and schedule. Earning a respected certification not only increases your job prospects but also demonstrates your commitment to excellence in healthcare administration.

Take the first step toward a rewarding career by contacting a school or training provider today—use the resources and program links above to explore courses, request information, and begin your application process. Your path to leadership in medical practice management starts now.

For additional information on job outlook and wage statistics for Medical and Health Services Managers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Outlook Handbook.