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Medical Office Manager Programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Albuquerque, New Mexico

The healthcare sector in Albuquerque, New Mexico offers rewarding career opportunities for individuals interested in becoming a Medical Office Manager, also known as a Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM). Medical Office Managers play a pivotal role in healthcare administration, overseeing daily operations, managing staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting quality patient care. Whether you are new to medical practice management or looking to advance in the field, understanding the pathways to certification and local training options can help you achieve your professional goals in Albuquerque.

There are several educational paths to becoming a Medical Office Manager in Albuquerque. Some professionals begin with an associate or bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration or business, while others pursue targeted certificate programs that prepare them directly for national certification exams such as the CPPM. Choosing the right path depends on your background, career aspirations, and the requirements of local employers.

About Albuquerque

Albuquerque is the largest city in New Mexico and serves as a central hub for healthcare, education, and business in the state. Nestled at the base of the Sandia Mountains and bisected by the Rio Grande, Albuquerque is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse neighborhoods, and proximity to natural landmarks like the Petroglyph National Monument. The city’s official website, cabq.gov, offers more information about local resources and community life.

Healthcare is one of Albuquerque’s largest industries, with major hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers located in areas such as Downtown, Nob Hill, and the University District. This vibrant medical community makes Albuquerque an ideal location for pursuing a career in medical practice management.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is home to several respected institutions offering training in healthcare administration and medical office management. Below are three local options where you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a Medical Office Manager or prepare for the CPPM certification.

1. University of New Mexico (UNM) – Career Training

  • Location: University District, Albuquerque
  • Program: Medical Office Manager Career Training
  • Overview: UNM’s Medical Office Manager program integrates coursework in medical terminology, Microsoft Office, Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS), and Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) preparation. The curriculum is designed to equip students with administrative, technical, and management skills needed for modern medical offices. The program prepares graduates for several national certification exams, including the CPPM.
  • Learn more about the program

2. Central New Mexico Community College (CNM)

  • Location: Main Campus, Near Downtown Albuquerque
  • Program: Associate Degree in Health Services Management
  • Overview: CNM offers a Health Services Management associate degree that prepares students for entry-level management roles in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations. The program covers medical office procedures, healthcare regulations, business communications, and leadership essentials. Graduates are equipped to pursue roles as Medical and Health Services Managers and can transfer credits toward a four-year degree.
  • Explore the Health Services Management program

3. New Mexico State University (NMSU) – Online MBA with Health Services Management Concentration

  • Location: Las Cruces, NM (About 225 miles south of Albuquerque, fully online for Albuquerque residents)
  • Program: MBA in Health Services Management
  • Overview: NMSU offers a 100% online MBA program with a concentration in Health Services Management, ideal for working professionals in Albuquerque. The curriculum focuses on healthcare business practices, people management, analytics, and the legal and ethical aspects of healthcare administration.
  • View the MBA program details

If you are seeking in-person programs outside Albuquerque, consider contacting institutions in nearby cities such as Santa Fe or Las Cruces, which can provide additional training options.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Albuquerque

Albuquerque’s healthcare landscape is anchored by major hospitals, health systems, and specialty practices. These organizations frequently seek qualified Medical Office Managers and offer a range of employment opportunities.

Major Healthcare Employers in Albuquerque

  • University of New Mexico Health System

    • Location: University District
    • Description: The only academic medical center in New Mexico, UNM Health provides comprehensive adult and specialty services. As a large employer, it offers numerous roles in medical office management and healthcare administration.
    • UNM Health employment opportunities

  • Presbyterian Healthcare Services

    • Location: Multiple campuses, including Downtown and Northeast Heights
    • Description: With nine hospitals and a network of clinics, Presbyterian is recognized as New Mexico’s top hospital and a national leader in patient care. The organization regularly hires Medical Office Managers for various departments.
    • Presbyterian Healthcare Services careers

  • Lovelace Health System

    • Location: Multiple locations, including Downtown and Uptown
    • Description: Lovelace operates several hospitals and specialty centers, including facilities focused on cardiovascular and women’s health. The health system offers roles in practice management and healthcare administration.
    • Lovelace Health System jobs

  • New Mexico Department of Health

    • Location: Statewide, including offices in Albuquerque
    • Description: As the primary public health agency, the department employs administrative professionals to support a range of healthcare services and programs.
    • NM Department of Health employment

These employers are located in central neighborhoods with easy access by public transportation and are known for offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

Most Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration programs in Albuquerque have similar entry requirements:

  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is required for certificate and associate degree programs. Bachelor’s degree programs may require prior college credits or an associate degree.
  • Age: Students must typically be at least 18 years old.
  • Experience: While not always required for entry, prior experience in healthcare or office administration is recommended, especially for advanced certification programs.
  • Background Check: Some programs or employers may require a criminal background check and/or drug screening.
  • Technical Skills: Basic computer skills are helpful, as coursework often includes training in Microsoft Office and electronic health records.
  • Entrance Exams: Most certificate and associate programs do not require standardized entrance exams, but proficiency assessments may be administered.

Prospective students are encouraged to check specific program requirements on the institution’s website or by contacting the admissions office.

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

To become a Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) or obtain similar credentials, candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Education & Experience: While not always required, at least two years of experience in healthcare management or administration is strongly recommended before attempting the CPPM exam.
  • Exam Preparation: Completion of a formal training program—such as those offered by UNM or through online courses by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)—prepares candidates for the national certification exam.
  • Passing the CPPM Exam: The CPPM exam consists of 135 multiple-choice questions covering business processes, revenue cycle management, compliance, accounting, HR, health IT, and more. A score of 70% or higher is required to pass.
  • Certification Body: The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) administers the CPPM credential and offers both in-person and online exam options.
  • Continuing Education: To maintain certification, CPPMs must complete continuing education units (CEUs) every two years and maintain active membership with the certifying organization.

Other respected credentials include the Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) from the Practice Management Institute and specialized certifications from the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM) and American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

For more information on the Medical and Health Services Manager profession, including national job outlook and salary data, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Get Started Today

A career as a Medical Office Manager in Albuquerque, New Mexico offers stability, advancement, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. With several local training options and a strong job market, now is an excellent time to pursue your certification and begin your journey in medical practice management. Take the next step by researching programs, reaching out to local schools, or submitting an inquiry through the program forms—your future in healthcare administration starts today.