Medical Office Manager Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Navigating a career as a Medical Office Manager in Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers a unique blend of professional growth, stability, and the chance to make a significant impact in the healthcare industry. As a Medical Office Manager—sometimes referred to as a Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM)—you will oversee the administrative operations of medical practices, clinics, or healthcare organizations. This includes managing personnel, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing healthcare administration processes, and supporting quality patient care.
There are several educational paths to enter this field. Aspiring professionals may pursue certificate programs, associate degrees in healthcare administration, or even bachelor’s degrees specializing in medical practice management. Earning the CPPM certification, recognized nationally and offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), further validates your expertise and opens up advanced career opportunities in medical practice management.
Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance your healthcare administration career in Tulsa, understanding the local training options, employment landscape, and certification requirements is essential for success.
About Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a thriving city situated along the Arkansas River in the northeastern part of the state. Known for its rich history, art deco architecture, and vibrant arts scene, Tulsa balances urban amenities with a welcoming community spirit. Key neighborhoods include Downtown Tulsa, Brookside, and Midtown, each offering unique cultural and healthcare resources. The city boasts a strong healthcare industry and is home to major medical centers, clinics, and public health organizations. For more about Tulsa, visit the official City of Tulsa website.
Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa offers several robust educational programs for those aspiring to become Medical Office Managers. Here are three top options in the Tulsa area:
1. Tulsa Tech – Medical Office Manager (CPPM) Program
- Location: Campuses throughout Tulsa; online via ed2go
- Program Overview: Tulsa Tech provides a comprehensive Medical Office Manager (CPPM) program that includes training in Medical Terminology, Microsoft Word and Excel, Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS), and dedicated CPPM exam preparation. The program offers hands-on EHR experience, unpaid work experience in local medical settings, and includes exam vouchers. This integrated approach equips students with practical skills and multiple nationally recognized certifications.
- More Information: Tulsa Tech Medical Office Administration
2. Tulsa Community College – Healthcare Administration Associate Degree
- Location: Downtown Tulsa (909 South Boston Ave, MP 200, Tulsa, OK 74119) and online options
- Program Overview: This two-year associate degree provides foundational knowledge in healthcare law, ethics, finance, electronic health records, and administrative management. The curriculum is designed for entry-level healthcare administration roles and includes pathways to transfer into four-year bachelor’s programs for further advancement.
- More Information: TCC Healthcare Administration
3. Oklahoma State University – Bachelor of Professional Studies in Health Care Administration
- Location: OSU-Tulsa (Downtown Tulsa) and fully online
- Program Overview: Tailored for working adults and transfer students, this bachelor’s degree program offers flexibility and covers healthcare industry operations, insurance logistics, and management skills. It prepares graduates for administrative and leadership roles across hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies.
- More Information: OSU Health Care Administration
Note: If you live outside Tulsa or seek additional options, online CPPM courses are available through the AAPC, providing self-paced preparation for the national certification exam.
Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Tulsa
Tulsa’s healthcare sector is robust, with major hospitals and medical groups offering diverse employment prospects for Medical Office Managers and healthcare administrators:
Saint Francis Hospital (Saint Francis Health System) — Midtown Tulsa
- Overview: The largest hospital in Tulsa with over 1,100 beds and top regional rankings. Offers comprehensive services and is known for its strong benefits and career advancement opportunities.
- Employment Opportunities: Saint Francis Careers
Ascension St. John Medical Center — Midtown Tulsa
- Overview: A leading Level II Trauma Center with specialties in stroke, orthopedics, women’s health, and cancer care. Recognized for high-quality patient outcomes and an inclusive work environment.
- Employment Opportunities: Ascension St. John Careers
Hillcrest Medical Center — Downtown Tulsa
- Overview: A 656-bed facility with specialties in women’s health, burn care, and wound care. Known for innovation and teamwork in healthcare delivery.
- Employment Opportunities: Hillcrest Careers
Other notable employers include Oklahoma Surgical Hospital and Oklahoma State University Medical Center.
These organizations are located in central neighborhoods such as Midtown and Downtown Tulsa, providing convenient access for healthcare professionals.
Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs
Before enrolling in a Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration program, prospective students should review the following typical prerequisites:
- Education: High school diploma or GED is required for entry-level certificate and associate degree programs; some bachelor’s programs require prior college credit.
- Minimum Age: Generally, students must be at least 18 years old.
- Experience: While not always mandatory, prior experience in healthcare or office administration is beneficial, especially for advanced certifications like the CPPM.
- Background Checks: Clinical or externship components may require criminal background checks, drug screening, and up-to-date immunizations.
- Technical Skills: Basic computer literacy is often expected, given the emphasis on electronic health records and office software.
Always consult the specific program for detailed requirements.
Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers
Certification is a key step for career advancement in medical practice management. The most recognized credential is the Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
CPPM Certification Requirements:
- Recommended Experience: At least two years of healthcare experience is strongly advised.
- Exam Details: 135 multiple-choice questions covering business processes, human resources, compliance, revenue cycle management, EHR systems, and more. Minimum passing score is 70%.
- Preparation: Completion of a CPPM training course is highly recommended for first-time pass rates.
- Cost: $399 (single attempt) or $499 (two attempts); includes online or in-person testing options.
- Continuing Education: To maintain certification, 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years and active AAPC membership are required.
The AAPC also offers extensive preparatory courses and practice exams—learn more about the CPPM credential at the AAPC CPPM Certification page.
Other valuable certifications include the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) and Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) from the National Healthcareer Association, and the Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) from the Practice Management Institute.
Get Started Today
A career as a Medical Office Manager in Tulsa, Oklahoma, opens doors to meaningful work, competitive salaries, and opportunities for ongoing advancement in healthcare administration. Whether you are new to the field or ready to earn your CPPM certification, Tulsa’s educational institutions and healthcare employers offer the resources and support you need to succeed. Take the next step and reach out to a local school—your future in medical practice management starts with a single decision.
For more information on job outlook and salary trends, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Medical and Health Services Managers page.
