Become a CPC in 3 Months - Study Plan - From Beginner to Certified Medical Coder

[@ContempoCoding]

Hey everyone! 🎉 Want to dive into Medical Billing & Coding? Check this out: MedicalCodingMasterclass.com/ 🤓 I'm hosting a totally free career masterclass. Learn how to become a certified pro and land that dream job! No student loans, no full-time college drama. In this session, we’ll cover: 👉🏻 What a day in the life of a Medical Coder looks like 👉🏻 Insider info like salary and growth in the industry 👉🏻 Tips for scoring the right training and even how to get it on the cheap! 👉🏻 Why you might wanna rethink that financial aid 👉🏻 What employers are *really* looking for It's jam-packed with goodies to get you started. Catch you there!

[@cssj1952]

I did your program in 3 1/2 months, and now I have to plan for employment 😊

[@R-cakes]

Hi which program?

[@mandydreher7538]

What was your tricks for going so fast through the program? I'm a year and half in and still feel no where ready. How did you retain all terminology knowledge?

[@lakindrabrooks2372]

@@mandydreher7538don’t feel bad there’s no way you can learn cpc in just three months I been struggling. Coding is very hard and it’s not what people think 🙄

[@nicolesovie9999]

I see the same comments on each one of her videos except with different names. This one is Miss Catherine, another was Mr James, etc. Word for word commentary except for the name change. My advice is watch out for these scammers. Unfortunately I don't think she realizes they are in her comments. Hopefully she removes them.

[@nicolesovie9999]

​@GabbyJade stop scamming people

[@aqurasandoval4553]

Can I just say, I love how you start with "Hey there, future medical coders..." it's as if we're speaking it into existence ✨️. A little thing that makes a big impact those affirmations ❤ thank you! - a proud subscriber

[@ContempoCoding]

You are most welcome! Glad you enjoyed that little affirmation, hopefully it helps you stay motivated as you study! 😊

[@Coding4kix]

Thank you so much! I'm excited to start using this. What helped me familiarize myself with the CPT was reading every code from 10011-69970 and making 1-2 sentence notes beside each word/procedure I didn't understand. Then I watched the procedure (or as close as I could get to the actual procedure) on KZbin, so I could understand what the doctor was doing to the patient and what I was coding for. It was extremely eye opening. Thank you for your channel! 🙂

[@sweetpicklesmakemehappy3026]

That is some serious dedication!😮 I didn't even CHUN my manual. You're definitely more dedicated than I am. 👍

[@Coding4kix]

@@sweetpicklesmakemehappy3026 I didn't CHUN either. The compliance officer at work told me if I learned to use the manuals like an adult, I wouldn't need to turn them into coloring books. So I've been "adulting." 🙃

[@sweetpicklesmakemehappy3026]

@@Coding4kix ROFLOL!!!! Good for you!! 💜

[@elainerogers3547]

​@@Coding4kixROFLMBO!! That is the best advice I've ever heard! I'm using that with the coding new hires on my team! 😂

[@pathlabcoder]

@@Coding4kix OMGosh! Too funny! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I'm telling the Coders at work about this! 😂😂😂

[@boredjessi]

Thank you so much! My class from a credited organization has not been helpful at all compared to these videos. I'm so disappointed in it, but it was wonderful to find this channel.

[@LVANMUSIC]

I keep putting my CPC exam off since ICD-9 days, now in AAPC program for ICD-10 and need this motivation, Thank You!

[@MzSparklette026]

So have I! I'm motivated now to take it. I have been coding with my job for 5 years now with my CBCS. I need a better salary plus I'm ready to be remote. Trying to study on my own is draining a little, but I would rather do that than get back in debt with school or programs. But I can do this and so can you! Let's Do this Hun!! We got this!!

[@pathlabcoder]

Thank you for the study plan! I've been self studying through AMCI and medicalcodingbyjen's channels. I'm almost confident enough to sit for the exam, so this will help a ton.

[@user-ez2ez3dd4g]

Do they provide the texts needed for the course or do you have to buy them? I'm thinking of taking the Fast Track from AMCI

[@pathlabcoder]

@@user-ez2ez3dd4g You have to buy them. I just watch their free videos on KZbin. I didn't want to pay for something I could learn for free.

[@heatherasimonsen]

I just wanted to say thank you for all of your amazing content, helpful tips and tricks for coding, and I have learned something from all of them! I also love how your room changes with the shelves and the plants and the lights and the decor, etc., you've been seriously enjoyable to learn from! My thanks comes because I started watching your videos a couple of months ago and just passed my CPC exam! I am reaching out to my city's chapter and going to find a position to volunteer for. I appreciate all your videos and helpful content throughout this journey and I hope you keep making more content for others to be helped as much as I have been by it. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

[@mndegrassi8]

Please do another video on how to get your first job in coding with a CPC-A. How are we supposed to get the experience to get the A taken off when literally no one hires CPC-As? I got my foot in the door as a front desk associate, then moved to billing, but that seems to be the end point. I invested a lot of money into the certification and it has been years now. I know so many people with similar stories to mine, so any advice would be helpful. Thanks in advance.

[@ContempoCoding]

Thanks for reaching out. As you can imagine, I get many requests for job seeking advice so I’ve compiled all of my best tips in this KZbin playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLPHIVqUe1ntwWk43D_3ULgmATJ-XZ5Q52 I think you’ll find it very helpful. I am not currently offering individual assistance on job searching at this time and do not have any job leads to provide for you. Best of luck!

[@nikitajones5972]

I am in same position. Thank you❤

[@carolswan7412]

I have started following your post for the past week. I am a RN with a BSN I am looking to learn billing and coding so I can work as an auditor. I’m looking at doing more of a self study course. It’s nice to know there is such a program that is more of a self study. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@msjonyba1234]

Me, but I have my ADN and was looking at either CDIS, UR, or MDS coordinator.

[@terarolf1122]

Me as well, I'm a CRT but no longer do patient care so was looking into coding. I am wondering if I can do this on my own or should I take a certification course.

[@ashleyv1078]

@@terarolf1122 Please let know what you found out? I am a CRT as well and have not done patient care in a while. I do not want to go back to the hospital if I can.

[@terarolf1122]

@@ashleyv1078 I couldn't find any answer. But I didn't dig deep yet either.

[@DeniseRene407]

I’m an RN wanting to get into Fraud and Waste Investigations. I took a billing/coding course over a year ago but life got in the way so I never sat for a certification exam. So instead of paying to take another course, I am here trying to self study lol.

[@muyloca3280]

I just finished her master class !! Thank you

[@PattyMillones]

How was it? I’m looking into the classes

[@Anna-wd8ox]

Do we need to have taken anatomy and physiology as well as medical terminology before we use your guide?

[@Blakeneyd]

This was packed with valuable information / thank you so much for posting!

[@isabel8526]

Thank you! Great resource for getting started and will be using this study guide

[@Tbird2191]

That's my goal!!! Let's go!!!❤❤❤❤❤

[@moniemone1062]

Mine too😊❤🙏🏾👍🏾

[@rosyp71]

Vitoria, you read my mind! Let’s do this!!!😊

[@arikaberger8568]

Thank you for sharing the study guide!

[@lmoore2828]

I would love to have the 3 month plan sent to me, hopefully that will keep me on track. Thanks in advance!

[@AudreyRoman-l1r]

Thank you so much for the video and the study guide!. Thank you for sharing the study guide!.

[@susangoodwin9765]

I've been looking at the AAPC program and have never heard of Preppy. Can you explain why you recommend them? Thanks!! I'm really enjoying your videos.

[@R-cakes]

Hi Victoria! Where can I purchase your practice exams for the cpc?

[@kimminnick6434]

I wish i would have found this , before i spent alot of money on schooling

[@alexashikian3652]

if I go through Preppy do I need all the books your talking about? or does Preppy provide us with that?

[@deepentikanekar1460]

Hey Victoria, could you suggest any websites or links to get free practice test for cpc exam? Your videos are very informative and simplified, thank you so much.

[@ContempoCoding]

Yeah -- I know CCO has a free CPC Practice exam - www.cco.us/free-cpc-online-practice-exam/

[@pineycreek8807]

Thank you for the app recommendation!

[@twatquat3322]

Thank you so much for your video. After 40 + years in healthcare, I am approaching retirement ( early ) , but I still want to keep working. I have a B.S. Degree in Business and Healthcare Management, and Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology , 25 Years as a Manager in a busy CT SCAN Department in Radiology, I am really excited about branching out in another area of Healthcare that I have never tried. I am hoping that I will be able to work from home and that I won't have a huge problem finding employment. What do you think @ContempoCoding..? Do medical coders/billing normally have to start out in a Dr.'s office or Hospital, or can you get employment and start working from home? I've never done this so it's all new to me....Thank You !🙂❤

[@mariainspires]

Would you recommend the Ebook version of any of the required books? If so which one(s)?

[@princessfiona79]

Hello, I am new to this and very confused about where to begin and how to begin. I also am confused about which coding certificate to apply for. Any help is greatly appreciated. thank you!

[@kimminnick6434]

Thank you , the videos are easier go understand more informative

[@kimminnick6434]

To understand

[@sheenaw215]

on the website, it says that you need 2 years of on the job training. so how can you get it in 3 months? im confused.

[@jocooper5517]

Thank you Victoria Moll. I really enjoy all your videos and all the great advice.The study guide website is not in blue and I can’t view it.

[@ContempoCoding]

I'm not sure what you mean by not in blue?? Are you saying it's not a link? contempocoding.newzenler.com/f/cpc-study-plan

[@jocooper5517]

@@ContempoCoding yes. Thank you for the link

[@SarahSherman-s8t]

I have completed almost a two-year Associates degree program at a community college all the way up to my last quarter which starts this September 11th and it is my Internship quarter. My question to you is I am ready to take my CPC exam but am struggling to register and schedule it without all of the fees and training stuff that it wants me to do and pay for. How do I just schedule the exam and pay for the voucher only?

[@patiencewilson7104]

Hi! I downloaded the study plan for the cpc exam but I don't know how to find cases related to each system of the body to practice coding them. Where can I find cases for every system? Cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous system, digestive system, etc.?

[@gloriamoreno2160]

How can I purchase a practice exam thru you or aapc ? Do I need to be a member of either? Let me know

[@jeongeunkim4041]

I watched the whole video through but where is the study plan, it's only show preppy link on your description 😢

[@jeremeolson5555]

what would you recommend for people trying to get in the door?

[@Sara-sp2hy]

watching your videos makes me so happy , and hope for my future as a coder , i am studding myself becuase i dont have money to go school so your videos helps me a lot

[@ambitiousbeauty1013]

You mentioned the icoder app doing math size calculations. Is it math in billing and coding?

[@amandaalaniz88]

What books do you recommend for medical coding and billing to practice and for the actual final exam online? I'm taking an online course I wish I would have found your channel sooner and tried preppy.

[@Bananvr-65]

If we study on our own fir the cpc because I have alot of medical terminology and anatomy background....is that doable and how do we get an externship or experience to get hired?

[@KG-yr3js]

I had to take my exam before finishing my course because my vouchers were going to expire. I am having problems with my practical application on the course. Do you have any advise? I actually used your course to practice for my exam which I passed!

[@70tonya]

How can we get in touch with you I have my associates ready to freshen what I’ve learned and get certified

[@ContempoCoding]

As you can imagine, I receive a lot of requests for individual assistance, but I'm afraid I don't have the time to offer that right now. I'm currently working full-time on my KZbin channel and other projects, and I don't have the bandwidth to take on any additional commitments. You can try catching me on a livestream, which are typically Tuesdays at 2pm. I know this may be disappointing, but I hope you understand. I appreciate your continued support, and I hope you continue to enjoy my videos!

[@cynthiahuggins2685]

What was the trick to finishing so fast im still stuck on lesson 4 on revenue management i have not even got to the codes part yet. I feel lost

[@Shee.humble]

Is there a free coding program I can use or download to practice on? Thanks!

[@CheesyMonkeyJello]

Victoria: you mentioned the “Step-by-Step” medical coding books.. are those the Buck’s ones?

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, Bucks Step-by-Step Medical Coding published by Elsevier.

[@tinaivery8962]

I am looking into schools for Medical coding and billing. If I want to be certified in both or be recognized for both which exam do you recommend me take?

[@oliviamartin4846]

Can you bring your coding book to the cpc exam? Or do you have to memorize the codes?

[@daydreamdebbie8387]

If I start preppy in the fall and take the exams the beginning of next year, will there be any setbacks with having prior year books?

[@JaniveMerritt]

I like to purchase the cpc exam book

[@KenneMarie]

Does anyone know when is the promo on Preppy gonna end?

[@jmat4944]

Can you do a video on Preppy? Interested but can’t seem to find reviews etc.

[@ContempoCoding]

Great news! I've already created a video detailing everything you need to know about Preppy. You can find it, along with other valuable resources, on my website at medicalcodingmasterclass.com. I hope you find it helpful and it answers all your questions!

[@19Roo19]

Im in preppy and the med term section is soo long and too in depth . Whats the best way to take this section in preppy

[@mrednblack6]

If I have 19 and a 1/2 years of experience in the medical field (e.g. caring for dementia patients) AND 2 years of going all the way through Paramedic school, can I become a medical coderr in 3 or less months?

[@adc2327]

This is a strange question. I am disabled, so I will be taking the test at home. There is no way I can sit 4 hours without having to use the bathroom. Even worse being nervous. Will I be disqualified if I have to leave to go to the bathroom?

[@ContempoCoding]

You will not be disqualified, but the time does not stop for the exam for breaks. You can also look into the ADA qualifications with the AAPC: www.aapc.com/support/certification-exams/what-if-i-need-ada-accommodations

[@adc2327]

@ContempoCoding Thanks so much for your reply.

[@inurfictionaldreams]

I have been doing a lot of researching about coding - watching your videos. This has always been something I've been interested in - currently working as a medical office specialist in a cardiothoracic surgical office. However my husband is joining the Army. Would coding be something that I could do even while we are moving around - potentially even internationally?

[@kmns4696]

Just a personal perspective. Medical codes are the same codes all over the world, so in my opinion yes.

[@inurfictionaldreams]

@@kmns4696 Thats what I was hoping for because I know at some point we will get station internationally so I just didn't want to put a lot of time and effort into something that I wouldn't be able to use when that happens.

[@mallory_1]

Hi thank you so mich for your help! I have a question. Could you do a video/short explaining cpc-A? I am currently about to sit for my CPC exam through AAPC. After talking w/ customer care im under the impression that after the test your considered an apprentice and still need 2 years experience, and that they offer practicode to reduce it by a year however takes 3 addtional months to complete. Am i understanding correctly? Have you heard this? I was under the impression originally that once you test, your a coder and can get a job at a cpc pay rate vs apprentice. Thank you!

[@nobodycares7233]

Hello! I am a CPC coder who has coded for 8 years. When I took my CPC and passed, yes I received my certificate for CPC-A, apprentice. I was already working as a non certified coder for 5 years, so my employer sent in a letter (you need 2) with my experience and how long I had been coding with the company. I received my CPC certificate within 30 days.

[@amandab4728]

I just signed up for preppy.

[@CreativeDPStudio]

how was your experience with Preppy?

[@Trikksonfn]

Hi Victoria, do you know where I could find the study guide for AAPC?

[@ContempoCoding]

www.aapc.com/shop/study-guides/cpc-study-guide.aspx

[@s-p-man5271]

Do you have a study plant for the CCS?

[@ContempoCoding]

I do not as I have not taken the CCS exam and therefore cannot speak to it.

[@samf.s.7731]

Hey! Genuinely curious how difficult this exam becomes for someone who doesn't have a medical (ish) background. Like if they haven't even taken premed, and they have to do things like anatomy by themselves. Because I gotta say, if it weren't for my academic background, I would have not even dreamed of attempting this 😅 It just becomes unbearably difficult tbh.

[@LeaStratton]

I am in the process of learning CPT further- I have learned the E&M side of things and have studied for the CCS exam and I took a practice exam and an area I need to improve in is the procedure coding. I am struggling with choosing too many codes for procedures- wondering the best way to learn appropriate procedure coding?

[@ContempoCoding]

Sounds like you're making solid progress in your coding journey, especially with E&M. When it comes to procedure coding, it's common to struggle with over-coding initially. The key is to become familiar with guidelines and Coding Clinics to ensure that you're capturing the most accurate codes without adding unnecessary ones. You might find it helpful to do focused practice on procedure codes. Look for real-world cases to code and then cross-reference your answers with the official answers and guidelines. That'll give you the context you need to understand why certain codes are chosen over others. Remember, coding isn't just about knowing the codes; it's about understanding the reasoning behind the coding choices. Keep at it, and you'll get better over time!

[@sheenaw215]

i went on the aapc website and they’re charging about 2600 for something. i don’t know if i need that or not. how much is the aapc membership?

[@elichristv6857]

hoping that i will learned a lot from u❤

[@shirleystacy934]

How much is the price for master class

[@VinodSingh-q9f]

Hello, i have taken 2nd attempt but not clear on second attempt . Could you please tell me can i eligible to again enroll for cpc exam ?

[@stacymiley9299]

Now I see this? I’ve been doing Penn Foster Coding since December

[@ashleyv1078]

How was it and did you find a job? Please respond.

[@BrittanyYaw-qm5ce]

How many times can you take the test if you fail the first time

[@ContempoCoding]

If you fail the AAPC CPC exam, you can retake it as many times as needed, but you’ll have to pay the exam fee each time.

[@BrittanyYaw-qm5ce]

@ thank you for the info

[@Gingy2002]

I recently enrolled in the Preppy course, it wasn't very clear to me what to expect with the books, will I be receiving those through the course or do I purchase the books I need separately?

[@CreativeDPStudio]

how was your experience with Preppy?

[@lmoore2828]

What did you find out about the books? I am just now starting with Preppy and they don’t make this clear as to whether they send you books.

[@dwarakamai6239]

Can I rent the books?

[@combatskels]

how much the cost for this course?

[@elizabethhenderson367]

I have no medical experience and I'm looking at doing the CPC cert. I have looked at AAPC and they recommend first taking the fundamentals courses that would be an additional $1500. Do you think that is necessary?

[@norycloset9533]

Hi Elizabeth, I am aiming for the CPC cert from AAPC too. I have no medical background or experience like you. I do think I need to prepare for the medical terminology pre-requisite before I decided to jump in this coding career. I am located in CA, so I found and took the 4-week self-study medical terminology extension course from UC San Diego for only $295. I will finish the course next week. You will need to study the whole body system from head to toe so there are lots of medical terms, just so let you know, it's not easy.

[@yahnaza]

So before jumping to any coding and billing course, I should study medical terminology ?

[@mache2784]

How many hours of study per day would you recommend?

[@ContempoCoding]

If you're planning to study for the CPC exam in 3 months with zero prior experience, the amount of time you'll need to commit can vary based on how quickly you grasp the material. You might aim for: 2-3 hours on weekdays 4-5 hours on weekends This totals roughly 18-26 hours per week. Consistency is key, so try to set aside dedicated time every day. Don't forget to review your mistakes, seek additional resources for difficult concepts, and possibly consider enrolling in a review course if you find you need structured guidance.

[@richnfaith]

Hi,i am so interested of this career,and i want to pursue it.,i am currentky working,what are the steps to get into it.,do i need ti enroll?

[@ContempoCoding]

Thanks for reaching out. As you can imagine, I get many requests for advice for medical coding schools, and you will find all the answers you need by signing up for my FREE masterclass! www.medicalcodingmasterclass.com I think you’ll find it very helpful! Best of luck! * * DISCLAIMER: Link included in this comment is an affiliate link. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide Contempo Coding may receive a small commission. These affiliate commissions add no extra cost to the purchase price and helps support me so I can continue to provide my viewers great content about medical billing and coding.

[@Jmichelle213]

Can someone help me with which books? Im looking on the AAPC site at their book bundle but noticed one says Pro Fee Coder bundle and the other says Exam book bundle. I dont know which one to get. Help please? 😬

[@ContempoCoding]

They're exactly the same. The AAPC just made one that specifically says "exam bundle" to put examinees at ease that those are the right ones for the exam.

[@Jmichelle213]

@ContempoCoding thank you so much! After much research and finding your page, I started Preppy.

[@ummmjustsayin]

I am currently learning anatomy and physiology, and basic methods of coding from free youtube videos. But I am not able to purchase the books from India its too expensive. Is it possible for me to learn in depth through free coding websites online?

[@ContempoCoding]

It's important to note that due to licensing fees associated with CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes, there aren't any legal free resources that offer comprehensive training in medical coding. The CPT codes are a critical component of medical coding, and understanding them is essential for accurate coding. While free resources can provide a basic understanding, they often lack the depth and breadth required for professional coding, especially when it comes to the specifics of CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding systems. These systems are fundamental to coding in a professional setting. I understand that purchasing the official coding books can be a significant investment, especially from overseas. One option might be to explore second-hand books or older editions, which can be more affordable. While the latest editions are ideal, older versions can still provide a solid foundation, as long as you're aware of the changes in recent updates. Additionally, consider looking into online courses that might offer payment plans or scholarships. Some educational platforms provide comprehensive coding courses that include access to the necessary coding materials as part of the course fee. Remember, while the initial investment in learning materials can be substantial, the career opportunities in medical coding can be well worth it in the long run.

[@kbenn153]

I am unable to download tour study guide. Is it for members only?

[@ContempoCoding]

You need to input your name and email to gain access.

[@abdulh8958]

I have bachelor in biomedical engineering can be medical coder

[@itsyaboimat2393]

Hey guys I'm looking at doing medical coding how math heavy is it I only ask because I have a basic 4th grade math level

[@ContempoCoding]

I discuss the math involved in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6muhX2rg91kbMksi=wtscM1t0VKmhz0Qy

[@hoperoque-yv9zq]

How much is the examination from you?

[@ContempoCoding]

I don't provide any examinations, please check the AAPC website to purchase exams.

[@JesusisLord..]

Where is link to flash cards?

[@ContempoCoding]

amzn.to/3qYGNoP

[@marilugarcia713]

I finished medical coding school in February will this plan still apply to me?

[@ContempoCoding]

This plan is only if you're just starting your studies.

[@kristyparks939]

link for preppy please?

[@ContempoCoding]

www.medicalcodingmasterclass.com

[@kristyparks939]

@@ContempoCoding thank you. Your videos are very helpful

[@GypsysMom5150]

I'm so confused! What exactly do I need to begin this journey? Basic entry level must have list is what I'm looking for.

[@mshaznushbafsin2016]

how many attempts for CPC exam through AAPC?

[@ContempoCoding]

When purchasing the exam, you get 2 attempts. Any more attempts you need, you will need to pay additionally for. There is no limit on the attempts you can take, but you do need to pay for them.

[@Letstallklife1954]

You r talking too fast where can I print step by step

[@ContempoCoding]

I understand that my speaking pace might not be suitable for everyone. Fortunately, KZbin has some great features that can help you customize your viewing experience! You can easily adjust the playback speed of the video to slow it down by clicking on the gear icon (settings) in the lower right corner of the video player. There, you'll find the "Playback Speed" option, where you can select a slower speed that suits your preference. Additionally, don't forget you can pause the video at any time if you need a moment to catch up with the information. I hope this helps you enjoy the content at a pace that works for you. As for Step-By-Step, you can purchase them on Amazon.

[@Letstallklife1954]

@@ContempoCoding thank you. Your knowledge is outstanding.

[@MrMADONNACOLLECTOR]

A 3 month coder? So you are saying that those of us that went for 2 years wasted our time and money?!

[@BharatSingh-lt5pz]

Can you teach me? God promised i will pay on the emi base

[@ContempoCoding]

Hey there! I’m really thrilled to hear about your eagerness to learn. However, I must let you know that I don’t offer individual tutoring or personal educational sessions. My channel is a fantastic resource, though, and I encourage you to take advantage of the videos and materials provided for your self-study. They're designed to help folks like you prepare on their own time and at their own pace. Keep up that motivation and I’m sure you’ll do great! Cheers! 🚀

[@BharatSingh-lt5pz]

@@ContempoCoding thank you very much for your , I thought you also not reply to me , because no one want to help poor people. Thank again , can you tell me books and if you use instagram share your ID I will connect you there if need anything please