Surya Prasad Jan 25, 2024
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Entrance Tips

Overview of Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Certification

The world of the healthcare industry is seeing significant growth and advanced All thanks to medical coding. It has become one of the essential segments of this industry keeps medical records accurately coded. All these aspects have pushed the demand for Certified Professional Coder higher. 

If you desire to know more about the Certified Professional Coder Certification, then this post covers it all for you. Let’s get started and understand what this certification is all about and then assess the benefits of CPC certification and more. 

What is CPC Certification?

When it comes to CPC certification, it is authentication that the individual possesses all the skills to help you with proficient medical coding services. This certification can help you understand different concepts related to medical coding, including diagnosis coding, medical procedures coding, service coding, and more. It is one of the most highly-rated certifications in the healthcare industry. This certification has been acknowledged by employers as a mark of excellence.

If you are thinking about the benefits that come along with the respective certification, then the below pointers can help. Check it out:

Benefits of CPC Certification:

Obtaining CPC certification offers several benefits for healthcare professionals:

  • Enhanced Career Opportunities: CPC certification opens up a wide range of career opportunities in medical coding. Certified coders are in high demand, and employers often prioritize hiring CPCs due to their proven expertise and credibility.
  • Higher Earning Potential: Certified coders typically earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts. CPC certification demonstrates proficiency and can lead to higher pay grades and increased job prospects.
  • Professional Recognition: CPC certification is widely recognized and respected in the healthcare industry. It establishes credibility and demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical coding.
  • Career Advancement: CPC certification provides a stepping stone for career advancement. Certified coders are often considered for leadership roles and can pursue specialized certifications in areas such as auditing, compliance, or management.

Certified Professional Coder Exam Format

The CPC certification exam is conducted by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is a rigorous examination that tests the coding skills and knowledge of medical coders. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, with each question having four possible answers. Candidates are required to select the most appropriate answer based on their knowledge and understanding of coding guidelines and regulations.

The exam covers various topics, including anatomy, medical terminology, pathology, coding guidelines, and reimbursement methodologies. It assesses a coder's ability to accurately assign codes from various code sets, such as CPT (Current Procedural Terminology), ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification), and HCPCS (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System). 

Learn more: AAPC CPC Exam Preparation Tips

CPC Exam Duration

The CPC certification exam is a timed examination. Candidates are given five hours and forty minutes to complete the exam. This time includes a 10-minute break, which can be taken at the candidate's discretion. Candidates need to manage their time effectively to ensure they can answer all the questions within the allotted time.

During the exam, candidates should carefully read each question and all the answer choices before selecting the most appropriate answer. It is recommended to allocate a specific amount of time for each section based on the number of questions to ensure that all sections are completed within the given time frame.

Equipment Required for Online Exam

The CPC certification exam is available in both online and paper-based formats. For the online exam, candidates must have access to a computer with a stable internet connection. It is recommended to use a desktop or laptop computer rather than a mobile device for a better user experience.

Candidates should ensure that their computer meets the minimum system requirements provided by the AAPC. These requirements typically include a specific operating system, internet browser, and screen resolution. It is important to test the system compatibility well in advance of the exam to avoid any technical issues during the examination.

CPC Certification Requirements

CPC certification opens doors to various career opportunities in the healthcare industry. Some of the common career opportunities for CPC include:

  • Education: Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent to be eligible for CPC certification.
  • Experience: A minimum of two years of professional coding experience is required. This can be obtained through on-the-job training, coursework, or a coding apprenticeship program.
  • Membership: Candidates must be members of the AAPC. Membership provides access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education options.
  • Exam: The CPC certification exam is a comprehensive assessment of knowledge and medical coding skills. It consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, coding guidelines, and reimbursement methodologies. Candidates must achieve a passing score to earn their CPC certification. 

Discover more: Medical Coding Salary Trends

Career Opportunities for CPCs

CPC certification opens doors to various career opportunities in the healthcare industry. Some of the common career opportunities for CPC include:

  • Medical Coder: Certified coders work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and billing agencies. They review medical records and assign appropriate codes to diagnoses, procedures, and services.
  • Coding Auditor: CPCs with expertise in auditing ensure compliance with coding guidelines and regulations. They conduct audits to identify coding errors, provide feedback to coders, and recommend improvements to optimize revenue cycle management.
  • Coding Educator: Certified coders can pursue careers in education, training aspiring coders and providing ongoing professional development opportunities. They play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of coding professionals.
  • Compliance Officer: CPCs with a strong understanding of coding regulations and guidelines can work as compliance officers, ensuring that healthcare organizations adhere to coding standards and maintain ethical practices. 

Know more: Medical Billing vs Coding

Continuing Education and Certification Maintenance

Maintaining CPC certification requires ongoing education and professional development. CPCs must earn continuing education units (CEUs) to demonstrate their commitment to staying updated with industry changes and advancements. The AAPC offers various educational resources, webinars, conferences, and workshops to help CPCs fulfill their CEU requirements.

Also, check out: Top Medical Coding Certifications 

Wrapping It Up

CPC certification is a valuable credential for healthcare professionals seeking a rewarding career in medical coding. With its numerous benefits, including enhanced career opportunities, higher earning potential, and professional recognition, CPC certification is a worthwhile investment in one's career. By meeting the requirements and passing the certification exam, individuals can establish themselves as proficient medical coders and contribute to the efficient and accurate management of healthcare data. Good luck! 

You might also be interested: CPC  Salary Guide

 

Locations Where Edoxi Offers Medical Coding Course

Here is the list of other major locations where Edoxi offers Medical Coding Course
 



 

Medical Coding Trainer

Surya Prasad is a Certified Professional Coder with years of experience. Currently, she holds the position of Medical Coding Tutor at Edoxi Training Institute in Dubai, UAE, where she imparts her knowledge and expertise to aspiring professionals in the healthcare industry. With her extensive training and certifications, Surya Prasad is well-equipped to provide valuable insights and guidance to students and professionals pursuing careers in medical coding and healthcare management.

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