Medical Office Manager Programs in Spokane, Washington

Becoming a Medical Office Manager (CPPM) in Spokane, Washington

Medical office management is an essential leadership role within healthcare, blending business administration, compliance, and patient service. For those in Spokane, Washington, pursuing a career as a Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM) opens doors to a wide range of healthcare settings, from clinics and hospitals to specialty practices. This guide explores the steps to becoming a Medical Office Manager in Spokane, including education paths, local training programs, employment opportunities, and certification requirements.

About Spokane, Washington

Spokane, Washington, located in the heart of the Inland Northwest, is the second-largest city in the state and a major regional healthcare center. Known for its scenic Spokane River, Riverfront Park, and vibrant arts scene, Spokane is home to diverse neighborhoods such as Browne’s Addition, South Hill, and North Spokane. The city’s commitment to health and wellness is evident in its robust network of hospitals, clinics, and research facilities.

For more about Spokane’s community and local resources, visit the City of Spokane official website.

Medical Office Manager Training Programs in Spokane, Washington

Spokane and its surrounding areas offer several educational pathways to prepare for a career in healthcare administration and medical office management. Here are three notable programs:

1. Eastern Washington University – Medical Office Manager (CPPM) Program

  • Location: Online, based in Cheney/Spokane area
  • Description: Eastern Washington University offers a comprehensive online Medical Office Manager program, designed to prepare students for the CPPM exam and other key certifications. The curriculum includes medical terminology, electronic health records (EHR), Microsoft Office skills, and practical experience through clinical externships. Graduates are eligible to sit for the CPPM, CMAA, and CEHRS certification exams, with study guides, practice exams, and exam vouchers included.
  • More Info: EWU Medical Office Manager Program

2. Spokane Community College – Health & Medical Continuing Education

  • Location: Spokane Community College (East Spokane)
  • Description: Spokane Community College provides continuing education courses in healthcare administration, medical terminology, and health office technology. These courses offer foundational skills for those interested in medical office careers and can complement preparation for professional certifications like the CPPM.
  • More Info: SCC Continuing Education – Health & Medical

3. Central Washington University – Medical Office Manager (CPPM) Program

  • Location: 175 miles west of Spokane (Ellensburg, WA) – 2.5 to 3 hours by car
  • Description: Central Washington University’s 100% online Medical Office Manager program delivers a broad curriculum covering daily operations, scheduling, billing, coding, Microsoft Office, and compliance. Graduates are prepared for the CPPM exam and equipped for a variety of healthcare administration roles.
  • More Info: CWU Medical Office Manager Program

Note: If seeking in-person programs, Spokane Falls Community College also provides health sciences coursework, and Gonzaga University offers related healthcare leadership certificates.

Medical Office Manager Employment Opportunities in Spokane

Spokane’s thriving healthcare sector creates strong demand for skilled Medical Office Managers. Major employers include:

MultiCare Deaconess Hospital

  • Location: Downtown Spokane
  • Overview: Acute care hospital with Level III Trauma Center, Certified Chest Pain Center, and a Primary Stroke Center.
  • Careers: MultiCare Careers – Spokane

Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital

  • Location: Cliff/Cannon neighborhood
  • Overview: One of the largest hospitals in the Pacific Northwest, offering comprehensive medical and surgical services.
  • Careers: Providence Spokane Jobs

Kaiser Permanente Spokane Medical Center

Other potential employers include Providence Holy Family Hospital (North Spokane), Cancer Care Northwest (multiple Spokane locations), and major networks like CVS Health and Labcorp.

Prerequisites for Medical Office Manager Programs

Before enrolling in a Medical Office Manager program, candidates should expect the following prerequisites:

  • Education: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Age Requirement: Typically 18 years or older.
  • Background Check: Many programs and externships require a criminal background check and/or drug screening.
  • Experience: While not always required, prior work experience in healthcare or a related administrative field is highly recommended, especially for certification eligibility.
  • Technical Skills: Basic proficiency in computers and Microsoft Office is beneficial.
  • Additional Requirements: Some programs may require immunization records for externship placements.

Certification Requirements for Medical Office Managers

The primary certification for this career path is the Certified Physician Practice Manager (CPPM), awarded by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

CPPM Certification Details:

  • Eligibility: Recommended two years of healthcare experience; formal education can supplement experience requirements.
  • Exam: 135 multiple-choice questions covering healthcare business processes, revenue cycle management, accounting, compliance, HR, technology, and more. Four-hour time limit; passing score is 70%.
  • Cost: Exam vouchers start at $399 (one attempt) or $499 (two attempts).
  • Continuing Education: 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required every two years for recertification.
  • Preparation: AAPC and local colleges offer preparatory courses and resources.

Other relevant certifications include:

Get Started Today

Spokane’s medical and health services sector offers excellent prospects for skilled Medical Office Managers, with strong job growth, competitive salaries, and a supportive professional community. Take the first step toward your new career by researching local programs and contacting schools directly to discuss your goals and enrollment options. With the right training and CPPM certification, you will be prepared to make a meaningful impact in the region’s leading healthcare organizations.

For more information on national job outlook and salary data, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook for Medical and Health Services Managers.