Medical Office Manager Programs in Garland, Texas
Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Garland, Texas
Pursuing a career as a Medical Office Manager in Garland, Texas, offers a pathway into one of healthcare’s essential leadership roles. Medical Office Managers—often credentialed as Certified Physician Practice Managers (CPPM)—play a pivotal role in ensuring that medical practices run smoothly, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. These professionals oversee business operations, manage staff, handle medical billing, and implement best practices in healthcare administration.
Individuals interested in this field can choose from several education paths, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in healthcare administration or medical office management. Earning a recognized certification such as the CPPM not only demonstrates competence to employers but also opens doors to higher salaries and advancement opportunities.
This guide details the local options for Medical Office Manager education and certification in Garland, Texas, including training programs, employment opportunities, prerequisites, and certification requirements.
About Garland, Texas
Garland, located northeast of Dallas, is one of the largest cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Known for its diverse neighborhoods such as Firewheel, Duck Creek, and SpringPark, Garland offers a mix of suburban charm and urban convenience. The city is home to a thriving healthcare industry, numerous public amenities, and a strong economy. Residents and visitors can learn more about the city and its services by visiting the official Garland city website.
Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Garland, Texas
Finding the right training program is a crucial step toward becoming a successful Medical Office Manager. While Garland itself does not currently host a program specifically titled “Medical Office Manager” or “CPPM,” there are several reputable options in the greater Dallas area and online. Below are three accessible programs for Garland residents:
1. Collin College – Health Information Management Program (Wylie, TX; ~15 miles from Garland)
- Location: Collin College Wylie Campus, Wylie, TX
- Program: The Health Information Management program at Collin College prepares students for roles in medical office management, health information, and healthcare administration. Coursework covers medical billing, coding, healthcare compliance, and office operations. The campus is easily accessible from Garland and offers both certificate and associate degree options.
- Learn more: Collin College Health Information Management
2. Dallas College – Medical Administrative Assistant Certificate (Dallas, TX; ~11 miles from Garland)
- Location: Dallas College Richland Campus, Lake Highlands neighborhood, Dallas, TX
- Program: The Medical Administrative Assistant Certificate is designed for students seeking entry into healthcare administration. The curriculum includes medical office procedures, health information technology, insurance billing, and healthcare regulations—key skills for aspiring Medical Office Managers. Dallas College is a large, multi-campus system with flexible scheduling and online learning options.
- Learn more: Dallas College Medical Administrative Assistant
3. AAPC Online CPPM Certification Training (Remote)
- Location: Online (accessible from Garland)
- Program: The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) provides a comprehensive online CPPM training course, preparing students for the Certified Physician Practice Manager certification. This self-paced program covers revenue cycle management, compliance, human resources, and business operations. The training includes exam preparation and access to practice materials.
- Learn more: AAPC CPPM Certification
If you are willing to commute or study online, these programs offer robust preparation for a career in medical office management. Each program provides a unique blend of classroom learning, hands-on experience, and exam readiness.
Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Garland
Garland is served by several major healthcare providers and medical practices, many of which offer administrative leadership opportunities:
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Garland
- Location: Near Downtown Garland
- About: This hospital serves as a comprehensive care facility with a variety of specialty clinics, surgical centers, and outpatient services. Baylor Scott & White is known for supporting professional growth and frequently lists management and administrative roles.
- Careers: Baylor Scott & White Careers
Parkland Health – Garland Health Center
- Location: Northeast Garland
- About: As part of the broader Parkland Health system, the Garland Health Center provides primary care, women’s health, and pediatric services. Parkland Health is one of the largest public hospital systems in the U.S., offering many opportunities for skilled administrators.
- Careers: Parkland Health Careers
Medical City Healthcare (Dallas)
- Location: Multiple sites, closest in East Dallas (~10 miles from Garland)
- About: Medical City Healthcare operates hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout North Texas. The system employs thousands of administrative professionals and provides extensive career advancement opportunities.
- Careers: Medical City Healthcare Careers
These organizations are representative of the types of employers seeking Medical Office Managers and offer robust benefits, professional development, and competitive compensation.
Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs
Most Medical Office Manager or healthcare administration programs require applicants to meet several standard prerequisites:
- Education: High school diploma or GED is typically required.
- Age: Minimum age is usually 18 years.
- Background Check: Many programs require a criminal background check, especially for internships or externships in healthcare settings.
- Prerequisite Courses: Some programs recommend or require prior coursework in medical terminology, anatomy, and basic computer skills.
- Work Experience: While not always mandatory, experience in healthcare or administrative roles is advantageous, especially for advanced certifications like the CPPM.
Specific requirements may vary by institution, so it is recommended to check with your chosen school for detailed admissions criteria.
Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers
Professional certification is essential for career advancement as a Medical Office Manager. The most recognized credential is the Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM), offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC):
- CPPM Certification: Requires passing a comprehensive exam covering practice operations, compliance, human resources, billing, and more. AAPC recommends candidates have at least two years of healthcare experience, though formal training can substitute for some experience requirements.
- Exam Details: The CPPM exam consists of 135 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in four hours. A passing score is 70% or higher.
- Continuing Education: To maintain certification, CPPMs must complete 36 continuing education units every two years, with 16 focused on practice management topics.
Other credentials, such as the Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) from the Practice Management Institute (PMI) and the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), are also valued in the field.
For a full overview of the job outlook for Medical and Health Services Managers, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.
Get Started Today
Becoming a Medical Office Manager in Garland, Texas, is a rewarding career path that combines leadership, organization, and healthcare expertise. With strong local and online training options, robust employment prospects, and nationally recognized certifications, now is an excellent time to take the next step. Contact a local school or training provider today to learn more about program details and begin your journey toward certification and a fulfilling career in healthcare administration.
