Embarking on a career in medical billing and coding offers a rewarding path in the healthcare industry. A crucial step in this journey is gaining practical experience, and for aspiring professionals, a practicum is invaluable. For those considering CareerStep for their medical billing and coding education, understanding the practicum component, particularly concerning inpatient coding and module 9, alongside the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, is essential. Let’s delve into what you need to know to launch your career successfully.
Understanding the AAPC and CPC Certification
The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is the leading organization for medical coding professionals. It sets industry standards and provides certifications that validate your expertise. The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential, offered through the AAPC, is widely recognized as the gold standard. Holding a CPC certification significantly enhances your credibility and job prospects in the competitive field of medical billing and coding. AAPC certifications demonstrate to potential employers that you possess a comprehensive understanding of medical coding, billing, auditing, and compliance.
AAPC offers several core certifications, including:
- CPC (Certified Professional Coder): The foundational certification for medical office coding, covering a broad spectrum of coding principles, guidelines, terminology, and code sets like CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM. This is the most popular entry point into the field.
- CPC-H (Certified Professional Coder – Hospital Outpatient): Specializes in outpatient hospital coding, focusing on the unique coding requirements of hospital outpatient departments.
- CPC-P (Certified Professional Coder – Payer): Designed for professionals working with insurance providers, Medicare, or Medicaid, emphasizing payer-specific coding and billing rules.
- CIRCC (Certified Interventional Radiology Cardiovascular Coder): A specialized certification for coding complex cardiovascular and interventional radiology procedures.
Beyond these, AAPC also offers certifications in specialized areas like auditing, compliance, and practice management, allowing for career advancement and specialization.
AAPC vs. AHIMA: Key Differences
Another prominent organization in health information management is the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). While both AAPC and AHIMA offer respected certifications, they cater to slightly different areas within the coding and health information landscape. AHIMA’s certifications, such as Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) and Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-based (CCS-P), are heavily focused on coding mastery, particularly in inpatient and outpatient hospital settings.
AAPC, with its CPC certification, is more broadly focused on professional coding across various healthcare settings, including physician offices, clinics, and outpatient facilities. While some employers may express a preference, both AAPC and AHIMA certifications are highly valued. It’s advisable to research employer preferences in your target job market.
The CPC Exam: Your Gateway to Certification
The CPC exam is a rigorous assessment designed to validate your expertise in medical coding. It is a 150-question multiple-choice exam that evaluates your knowledge across 17 key areas, including CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM coding systems. Earning a passing score on the CPC exam demonstrates to employers that you have the competency to accurately code medical services and procedures.
Further Reading: CPC or CCA: Which Medical Billing Certification is Right for You?
Is the CPC Exam Difficult?
Yes, the CPC exam is known to be challenging, requiring thorough preparation. However, with dedicated study and the right resources, passing is achievable. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass. Effective preparation strategies include consistent studying, utilizing practice exams, and in-depth review of your coding materials. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t pass on your first attempt; the exam fee often includes a retake opportunity.
CPC Exam Format and Logistics
You have the flexibility to take the CPC exam online with a remote proctor or in person at a testing center. For online exams, ensure you have a reliable internet connection, a computer, a webcam, and a quiet, dedicated space. The CPC exam is an open-book exam, allowing you to use specific coding manuals: CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code books. You are permitted to bring one copy of each of these code books, current or previous year editions, with highlighting, tabbing, and handwritten notes. However, no loose papers or additional materials are allowed.
Education and the CPC Exam
While technically you can take the CPC exam without formal schooling, it is strongly discouraged. The exam content is highly specialized, demanding a deep understanding of medical coding procedures and complex coding guidelines. Comprehensive medical coding training significantly increases your chances of passing the exam and succeeding in your career.
Explore More: How a Skills-focused CPC Program Can Help You Prepare for the CPC Exam and a Job as a Medical Coder
CareerStep: Your Pathway to CPC Certification and a Medical Coding Career
CareerStep’s online Medical Coding and Billing Professional Program is specifically designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in medical coding and confidently prepare for the CPC exam. The program includes a comprehensive practicum component, providing hands-on experience that is critical for career readiness and exam success.
The Practicum Experience: Bridging Education and Real-World Application
A practicum is a vital part of medical coding education. It offers simulated or real-world experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. CareerStep’s practicum is structured to provide this essential practical application, helping you transition smoothly from learning to working.
While the original article does not specifically detail “Inpatient 9,” it’s important to understand that medical coding encompasses various settings, including inpatient (hospital) and outpatient (clinic, physician office). A comprehensive medical coding program like CareerStep’s will likely include modules or sections covering both inpatient and outpatient coding, potentially with a specific module, such as “module 9,” focusing on advanced or specialized coding topics which could include inpatient scenarios.
By engaging with the practicum, you gain experience in:
- Applying coding guidelines: Accurately using CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM codes in realistic case studies.
- Abstracting information from medical records: Identifying relevant diagnoses, procedures, and services from patient charts.
- Understanding billing processes: Learning how coded data translates into accurate medical claims.
- Developing problem-solving skills: Navigating complex coding scenarios and making informed coding decisions.
Career Advancement and Salary Expectations
While the CPC certification is a foundational credential, further specialization and certifications can lead to career advancement and higher earning potential. The Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO®) certification, for example, is associated with a higher average salary in the medical coding field.
Source (Accessed February 20, 2024): AAPC Medical Coding Salary Survey
However, salary is influenced by experience, employer type, geographic location, and additional certifications. CPC certification is valid for two years and requires earning 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years to maintain your credential, ensuring you stay current with industry changes and advancements.
Preparing for the CPC Exam with CareerStep
CareerStep is committed to your success, offering resources to help you prepare for the CPC exam:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program is designed to cover all tested areas of the CPC exam.
- Practicum Experience: Hands-on training to solidify your coding skills.
- CareerStep Final Exam Review: Utilize your final exam performance to identify areas for focused review.
- CareerStep Support: Access forums and support teams for exam tips and guidance.
- Recommended AAPC Resources: Consider AAPC practice exams and study guides for additional preparation.
Take the Next Step with CareerStep
A career in medical coding is within your reach. CareerStep’s Medical Coding and Billing Professional Program provides the training, practical experience, and CPC exam preparation you need to launch a successful career. By mastering your practicum and focusing on comprehensive preparation, you can confidently pursue CPC certification and embark on a rewarding journey in medical coding.
Ready to learn more? Contact CareerStep at 1-800-411-7073 to explore how their program can help you achieve your career goals.
