As a medical coder, you will assign specific numeric codes to medical services, procedures and diagnoses. Allied’s Medical Coding teaches you how to apply the right code in the right place and streamline the medical billing process. From knowledge of ICD-9-CM and CPT codes to reimbursement issues, you will be ready to play an important part in a medical office.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
By earning your designation as a Certified Professional Coder (CPC), you will show potential employers, as well as your peers, that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career as a medical coder. Not only do you demonstrate professional competency in the field, but you also prove that you have what it takes by passing the rigorous exam which is sponsored by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Having your CPC certification makes a strong statement in today's health care environment that speaks even louder than words to an employer. It indicates that you have relevant work experience as well as a thorough understanding of coding and a commitment to further growth and development in your profession.
Prior to taking the examination, it is highly recommended that you complete a comprehensive medical coding program. Those without prior experience may sit for the exam, though the credential awarded will be designated as Certified Professional Coder-Apprentice (CPC-A). Once you submit two letters of recommendation confirming two years of on-the-job experience, or complete a minimum 80-hour coding course and submit one letter verifying at least a year of experience, your CPC-A will be replaced with the full CPC credential.
The CPC exam measures your proficiency and knowledge of the correct application of CPT, HCPCS Level II procedure and supply codes and ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes that are used for billing professional medical services to payers. In addition to coding guidelines, this comprehensive multiple choice-format test, which is 5.5 hours in length, evaluates a physician practice coder's knowledge of some 25 areas, from anesthesia, radiology and pathology to respiratory, cardiovascular, and maternity and delivery.
Test preparation can be done through online "distance learning" or more traditional courses that take place in a classroom setting. (Allied's online Medical Coding Program lets you get the educational foundation you need from the comfort of home.) Tools available include in-depth coursework designed for beginners as well as study guides and shorter review classes for those who have a coding background. To assist examinees in determining their readiness for the exam, AAPC offers online practice tests with the same types of questions, and at the same level of difficulty, as those that will appear on the actual exam.
Exams are administered nationwide in cooperation with AAPC local chapters or through a licensed instructor, and you must have a current AAPC membership to take the test. (Allied provides a complimentary, one-year membership upon successful completion of its Medical Coding Program.) An overall score of 70 percent is needed to pass, and the testing fee includes one free retake if needed. Results are usually received within seven to 10 business days following the testing date.
For further information, including exam dates, locations, and fees, contact the AAPC or visit their website at http://www.aapc.com/.
Read Full Article>> CPC Certification: The Next Step in Your Medical Coding Career
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Medical Coding Blog Home