I know it has been a while since you posted but I thought I share my research on the topic. I am also in my 50s and considering medical coding. I looked into the courses and certification (which is required now a day for a higher paying job) and the cost ranges from $2,500 - $2,999 for the course. After the course you can sit for the exam but the course is required. I am current looking into insurance adjusting (workers comp) and having a medical coding license would give me an edge on the competition. I know how you are feeling, I left pharma a year ago and am working in a hospital in another capacity and looking for work from home situation.
Hopefully, by now you have landed somewhere, please post and left me know what you have figured out because I am still trying to figure this out myself.
