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Medical Office Manager Programs in Lubbock, Texas

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Lubbock, Texas

Pursuing a career as a Medical Office Manager in Lubbock, Texas, offers a compelling opportunity for those interested in healthcare administration and medical practice management. This role, often called Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM), is essential in ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare facilities, physician practices, and medical clinics. Medical Office Managers oversee day-to-day administrative functions, manage staff, ensure regulatory compliance, and coordinate with healthcare providers to deliver efficient patient care.

There are several education paths for aspiring Medical Office Managers. Many professionals begin with an associate degree or certificate in healthcare administration, medical office management, or a related field. Others may pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration or health services management. Specialized training and certification—such as the CPPM—demonstrate advanced proficiency and can significantly enhance career prospects. This guide explores the steps to becoming a certified Medical Office Manager in Lubbock, Texas, and highlights local resources to help you achieve your career goals.

About Lubbock, Texas

Lubbock, often referred to as the “Hub City,” is a bustling center of commerce, education, and healthcare in West Texas. As the county seat of Lubbock County, it boasts a vibrant community, a thriving arts scene, and a strong economy anchored by healthcare, agriculture, and education. Lubbock is home to Texas Tech University and the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, making it a regional leader in healthcare services and innovation. Neighborhoods such as Tech Terrace, South Overton, and Medical District are well-known for their proximity to major hospitals and educational institutions. Learn more about the city by visiting the official City of Lubbock website.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Lubbock, Texas

While Lubbock offers a robust healthcare industry, options for in-person Medical Office Manager programs are limited. Prospective students may need to explore online or nearby programs to meet their educational needs.

1. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) – Lubbock, TX (Medical District)
TTUHSC offers degree programs in healthcare administration and health services management, which provide a strong foundation for medical office management careers. TTUHSC’s curriculum includes business administration, health policy, and clinical operations, preparing graduates for leadership roles in healthcare settings. Explore TTUHSC academic offerings.

2. Texas State University – Online Medical Office Manager Program
Texas State University provides an online Medical Office Manager certificate program tailored for students seeking flexible learning options. The program includes training in medical terminology, electronic health records, billing, coding, and preparation for national certifications such as the CPPM. This option is ideal for Lubbock residents seeking comprehensive, remote training.

3. U.S. Career Institute – Online Medical Office Manager School
For those preferring a fully online experience, U.S. Career Institute offers accredited Medical Office Manager training. This program covers front office procedures, insurance, medical ethics, coding, and office management. Tuition is competitive, and the program is accessible from anywhere, making it a practical choice for Lubbock-area students.

If you are seeking in-person classroom programs, the closest option with a dedicated Medical Office Management focus is Texas Southmost College, located approximately 600 miles southeast of Lubbock. Most local students opt for online or hybrid programs to accommodate their schedules and geographic needs.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Lubbock

Lubbock serves as a major healthcare hub for West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, resulting in a strong demand for skilled Medical Office Managers. Several prominent healthcare systems and medical facilities offer employment opportunities:

Covenant Health (Medical District)
Covenant Health is the region’s largest health system, with over 1,300 licensed beds and more than 5,000 employees. The system includes Covenant Medical Center, Covenant Children’s Hospital, and Covenant Specialty Hospital. Explore their current career opportunities.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) and University Medical Center (UMC) (Medical District)
TTUHSC and UMC are leading employers in healthcare administration and medical office management. UMC is a Level I Trauma Center and pediatric trauma center, offering diverse administrative roles within its extensive hospital and clinic network.

Grace Medical Center (Central Lubbock)
Grace Medical Center provides advanced medical and surgical care, employing office managers and administrators to oversee operations in various departments. Check their careers page for job openings.

Lubbock Heart and Surgical Hospital (Central Lubbock)
Lubbock Heart and Surgical Hospital specializes in cardiovascular and surgical services, offering opportunities for medical office management professionals in a high-tech hospital environment.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

Admission requirements for Medical Office Manager programs typically include a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require:

  • Minimum age of 18 years
  • Background check or drug screening, especially for internships or externships
  • Basic computer literacy
  • Prior experience in healthcare or office administration (recommended but not always required)
  • For advanced programs, some colleges may require standardized test scores or prerequisite coursework in medical terminology or business administration

It is advisable to review the specific prerequisites for each program and consult with an admissions advisor to ensure eligibility.

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

The Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) credential is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). To obtain CPPM certification, candidates must:

  • Hold current AAPC membership
  • Complete a comprehensive CPPM training course (recommended but not mandatory for experienced professionals)
  • Pass a 135-question multiple-choice exam covering topics such as revenue cycle management, compliance, human resources, medical office accounting, health IT, and practice marketing
  • Achieve a minimum passing score of 70%
  • Pay an exam fee (currently $399 for one attempt or $499 for two attempts as of 2024)
  • Maintain certification with 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years and annual membership renewal

Other relevant professional organizations supporting Medical Office Managers include the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM), American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA). These organizations provide networking, continuing education, and additional certification options.

For more details about job outlook and salary for Medical and Health Services Managers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.

Get Started Today

A career as a Medical Office Manager in Lubbock, Texas, is both attainable and rewarding for those dedicated to healthcare administration and medical practice management. By completing the necessary education and pursuing respected certifications such as the CPPM, you can prepare for leadership roles in one of the region’s fastest-growing industries. Take the first step by researching local and online training programs, confirming prerequisites, and reaching out to schools through their information request forms. With the right preparation and credentials, you can become a valued leader in Lubbock’s dynamic healthcare community.