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.
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:
Obtaining CPC certification offers several benefits for healthcare professionals:
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
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.
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 opens doors to various career opportunities in the healthcare industry. Some of the common career opportunities for CPC include:
Discover more: Medical Coding Salary Trends
CPC certification opens doors to various career opportunities in the healthcare industry. Some of the common career opportunities for CPC include:
Know more: Medical Billing vs Coding
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
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
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.