Embarking on a career in medical coding can be a rewarding path, and the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential, offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), is a highly respected industry standard. It’s a fantastic way to distinguish yourself when applying for medical billing and coding positions. Understanding the CPC exam is crucial for your success. Let’s delve into what you need to know to navigate this important career step.
Understanding the AAPC and CPC Certification
The AAPC, or American Academy of Professional Coders, plays a vital role in the medical coding field. It’s dedicated to professional development and setting benchmarks within the industry. Through AAPC certifications, medical coders gain recognized credentials that demonstrate their expertise in areas like medical billing, auditing, and compliance.
AAPC certification is awarded to individuals who successfully pass CPC exams. This certification acts as a signal to potential employers, validating your education, competence, and commitment to the medical coding profession.
There are several core AAPC certifications to consider:
- CPC (Certified Professional Coder): This is the foundational certification for coders working in physician offices. It encompasses essential aspects of medical coding, including coding guidelines, medical terminology, and diagnostic codes. The CPC is the most widely recognized certification and an excellent starting point for your career.
- CPC-H (Certified Professional Coder – Hospital Outpatient): This certification is tailored for outpatient department coders in hospital settings, focusing on the specific coding nuances of this environment.
- CPC-P (Certified Professional Coder – Payer): This is geared toward professionals employed by insurance companies, Medicare, or Medicaid, dealing with payer-specific coding and billing processes.
- CIRCC (Certified Interventional Radiology Cardiovascular Coder): This specialized certification is for those handling billing for cardiac and interventional radiology procedures, requiring in-depth knowledge of these complex areas.
Beyond these primary certifications, AAPC also offers certifications in specialized areas like Medical Auditing, Medical Compliance, and Practice Management, allowing for further career specialization. Furthermore, coders can enhance their expertise with specialty certifications focusing on specific medical fields such as surgery, cardiology, and family practice.
AAPC vs. AHIMA: Key Differences
It’s important to distinguish between AAPC and AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association). While both are significant in health information management, they cater to different aspects of the field.
AHIMA certifications, particularly the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), primarily focus on inpatient and outpatient coding mastery within hospital settings.
AAPC, on the other hand, is centered around the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and related outpatient coding in physician practices and other non-hospital settings.
The preference for AAPC or AHIMA certifications can vary among employers. Some clinics or physician offices might favor CPC, while hospitals may lean towards CCS. When job hunting, always check if employers specify a preferred certification.
Decoding the CPC Exam
The CPC exam is widely regarded as the gold standard for medical billing and coding certification. Achieving this certification proves your proficiency in coding medical services and procedures. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions evaluating knowledge across 17 key areas, including CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10-CM coding systems.
Alt text: Essential medical coding code books including CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II, vital resources for CPC exam preparation and daily medical coding tasks.
To further explore your certification options, you might find resources comparing CPC and CCA certifications helpful in determining the best path for you.
Is the CPC Exam Difficult?
The CPC exam is indeed challenging and requires thorough preparation to pass. However, with focused study, practice, and effective use of your coding materials, it’s definitely achievable. A passing score is 70% or higher. Adequate study time, practice exams, and consistent review of coding materials are essential for maximizing your chances of success.
If you don’t pass on your first attempt, don’t worry! The exam fee typically covers a second attempt, giving you another opportunity to succeed.
Taking the CPC Exam Online
Yes, the CPC exam can be taken online, offering flexibility and convenience. Online exams are proctored remotely, requiring you to have a quiet environment, a reliable high-speed internet connection, a computer, and an external webcam. The webcam setup needs to show your face, hands, keyboard, and the surrounding workspace to ensure exam integrity.
CPC Exam: Open Book Policy
The CPC exam is an “open book” exam, but with specific rules. You are allowed to use physical copies of approved coding books during the test. Currently, these include:
- CPT (Current Procedural Terminology)
- ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification)
- HCPCS Level II (Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System)
You are limited to one copy of each book and must use editions from the current or previous year. For instance, you can’t bring both a 2020 and a 2022 ICD-10-CM. While you can highlight, tab, and add handwritten notes, nothing can be attached, glued, or stapled into the books.
Can You Take the CPC Exam Without Formal Schooling?
Technically, yes, you can take the CPC exam without attending a formal school. However, it is strongly discouraged. The exam covers complex and detailed material, including intricate medical coding procedures and extensive code sets. Without structured medical coding education, passing the exam becomes significantly more challenging.
Alt text: Focused CPC exam preparation with coding books, notes, and practice materials spread across a desk, highlighting the dedication needed for medical coding certification success.
Consider exploring skills-focused CPC programs designed to specifically prepare you for the CPC exam and a career in medical coding. These programs can provide the necessary foundational knowledge and practical skills.
Salary Expectations with CPC Certification
While the Certified Professional Compliance Officer (CPCO®) certification is reported to have a higher average salary, CPC certification remains highly valuable and opens doors to well-paying medical coding positions. Salaries can vary based on experience, employer type, and geographic location. However, CPC certification is consistently recognized as a key factor in earning potential for medical coders.
CPC Certification Validity and Renewal
CPC certification is valid for two years. To maintain your active status, you need to earn 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years. This ensures you stay updated with the evolving medical coding guidelines and industry standards.
Recommended Study Time for the CPC Exam
The amount of study time needed varies per individual. However, it’s crucial to dedicate sufficient time to prepare thoroughly. Avoid cramming at the last minute. Start studying well in advance to allow ample time to cover all the material and practice effectively.
What is Considered a Good CPC Exam Score?
A score of 70% or higher is required to pass the CPC exam. Aiming for a score well above this threshold not only ensures passing but also demonstrates a strong command of medical coding principles.
CPC Exam Costs and Membership
To take the CPC exam, AAPC membership is mandatory. The exam fee is $499, and membership is $210. Students may qualify for a reduced student membership rate of $145. These fees are investments in your professional future, paving the way for a successful medical coding career.
CPC Exam Registration Process
Registering for the CPC exam is straightforward through the AAPC website. Navigate to the “certifications” page and click on “Schedule Your Exam.” Follow the steps to schedule, which include exam purchase or voucher redemption and selecting a testing site if you choose to take the exam in person.
CPC Exam Locations
You have the option to take the CPC exam online from home or in person at a local testing center. The AAPC website provides a tool to locate nearby testing centers if you prefer an in-person exam setting.
Number of Questions on the CPC Exam
The CPC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, designed to comprehensively assess your medical coding knowledge and application skills.
Multiple-Choice Format of the CPC Exam
Yes, all 150 questions on the CPC exam are in a multiple-choice format. While some might see this as advantageous, be aware that the similarity between coding options can be challenging. Careful reading and thorough understanding are key to selecting the correct answers.
CPC Exam Time Limit
You are allotted four hours to complete the CPC exam, whether you take it online or in person. Effective time management during the exam is essential to ensure you can attempt all questions.
How Many Questions Can You Miss on the CPC Exam?
To achieve the passing score of 70%, you can miss a maximum of 45 questions out of the 150 on the CPC exam. Focusing on accuracy and thorough preparation will minimize missed questions.
Retaking the AAPC CPC Exam
You can retake the CPC exam as needed. The initial $499 exam fee often includes a free retake. If you fail both attempts, you will need to pay the exam fee again for subsequent attempts. Investing in thorough preparation upfront can save you significant costs and time in the long run.
Types of Questions on the CPC Exam
Approximately 70% of the CPC exam questions are coding scenarios, requiring you to apply your coding knowledge to practical situations. The remaining questions cover essential areas like medical terminology and anatomy.
These questions are categorized into 17 subject areas, with up to ten questions in each. Key content areas to focus on during your preparation include:
- Surgical procedures across all body systems (Integumentary, Musculoskeletal, Digestive, Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Hemic and Lymphatic, Mediastinum and Diaphragm, Urinary, Reproductive, Endocrine, Nervous)
- Evaluation and Management (E/M) coding for various settings (Inpatient, Outpatient, Nursing Facilities, etc.)
- Anesthesia coding
- Radiology and Laboratory Pathology coding
- Medicine and Medical Terminology
- Anatomy
- Coding Guidelines, Compliance, and Reporting for ICD-10-CM, HCPCS, and CPT coding systems
Understanding the Apprentice Status (CPC-A)
If you pass the CPC exam but lack two years of medical coding work experience, you will initially receive a CPC-A credential. The “A” signifies apprentice status. Once you document two years of coding work experience, the apprentice designation is removed, and you become a fully certified CPC.
CPC Certification and Relocation
The CPC certification is nationally recognized across all 50 states. Once certified, you do not need to retake the exam as long as you maintain your certification by earning 36 CEUs every two years, regardless of where you move within the United States.
Effective CPC Exam Preparation Strategies
Effective study habits are key to CPC exam success. Consider these strategies:
- Review Career Step Final Exam Performance: If you completed a Career Step medical coding program, analyze your performance on the final exam. Utilize any available retakes for extra practice and to reinforce your understanding.
- Utilize Practicum Reports and Program Materials: Revisit practicum reports and other learning materials from your medical coding program. These resources are valuable for exam preparation.
- Engage with Career Step Support Resources: Leverage Career Step forums and support teams for exam tips and guidance. Peer and expert insights can be incredibly helpful.
- AAPC Practice Exams and Prep Books: Consider using AAPC practice exams and study guides. Many students find these resources beneficial for targeted preparation and familiarizing themselves with the exam format.
Alt text: A structured CPC exam study plan laid out with textbooks, notes, and a calendar, illustrating a strategic approach to medical coding certification preparation.
Launch Your Medical Coding Career with Comprehensive Preparation
Interested in a medical coding career? Career Step’s comprehensive online Medical Coding and Billing Professional Program provides the essential healthcare and coding skills needed to take the next steps toward a fulfilling career. It equips you with the foundational knowledge necessary to confidently approach and pass the CPC exam. To learn more about how Career Step can help you achieve your career goals, call 1-800-411-7073!
