MEDICAL CODING CERTIFICATIONS - Coder Credentials and Types of Medical Coding Explained

If you're confused about the different types of medical coding and the certifications that go with them, this video explains the key credentials. Find out what it means to be a professional, inpatient, outpatient, or risk adjustment coder and salary projections from the certifying organizations. Medical coding is a popular work-from-home job in 2021, but you need to be certified, so let me tell you about the different paths!
*Note - As of April 2021 the free Risk Adjustment Webinar is now removed and an updated course is being created!
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[@tgamer4662]

This helped soooo much! All this time I thought I needed to go to a trade school or online university!!! I didn't know I could take online classes directly through the AAPC. I'm a certified medical assistant through the AAMA but I don't make a decent living. The job is also physically demanding. I've been struggling with finding ways to get the money to go to school for medical billing but the solution this whole time was on their website. Do you know how much I've been panicking being told by all these schools I'd have to pay $21k-$30k within the 9 months of their training programs?! No way am I getting a getting a loan. I just finally got out of debt! So thank you for this video!!! It was super informative and you literally just saved me thousands!!!

[@AndrewDoe777]

Great explanations. Your teaching is clear, concise, and informative! It makes sense that you are so diverse in your coding, auditing, YT creator, speaker, etc. Thanks for the vids!

[@vionettebarreiro1859]

Yey! Thank you for doing the video! Love it! Keep ‘em coming ❤️

[@ContempoCoding]

More to come! I'm getting better at this every day!! :)

[@alphacodingexperts1837]

Congratulations on over 1K subscribers! And I love your story about Lizzie and the blush 😊

[@raunij7967]

You should wayyyy more subscribers please don’t ever stop uploading. I even follow you on LinkedIn. And I’m a makeup girl as well and your makeup looks fine.

[@ContempoCoding]

My brushes have seen better days, though. There was soooo much pink smashed into them. Lol!!

[@simplydee2207]

Hey there Rauni any tips on the CPC cert

[@Redstatehell1]

This is great information. Thank you!

[@onewomansjourney760]

Love your videos! So helpful especially for new coders & those currently in school. They are not to long either but full of great information. Thank you for what you do!

[@ContempoCoding]

You're so welcome!

[@sharonhowell1392]

I really enjoy your videos, you are very informative and so personable!😊

[@AnthemTD]

super helpful, love your videos!

[@tanyaauthement3744]

I have been watching a lot more of your videos! You are original and refreshing!

[@ContempoCoding]

Wow, thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying them!!! :)

[@purplemamma]

I was looking for your link for your course that you were discussing in the video and I must have overlooked it. This is something that I would be VERY INTERESTED in. Thank You

[@NeeNeeNova]

Love your channel. Im just starting my journey but Im attending AAPC course for my CPC!! I will definitely be taking your course at some point next year once Ive passed my CPC exam!!!

[@ayoobangz]

Very helpful! Thank you

[@mbet1983]

I love your videos so much. You speak slowly and clearly and you give great advice. I’m graduating with a associate degree for healthcare administration and I have learned a little bit of all the medical billing and coding. I’m more interested in medical billing and coding than a healthcare administration. I’m looking to learn more of the medical billing and coding because it’s what I’m interested in doing. You are a great help. Keep doing what you are doing and stay blessed.

[@sav_avocado]

Wow! You are so knowledgeable and informative. It's nice having someone break it down clearly (and especially your other coding example videos - which I love). I just recently found your channel and I'm very grateful for it. Thank you for sharing! I was following another coder for a while for tips and it was honestly a little overwhelming. So, I really appreciate your approach and you've been so helpful! I do have a question I was hoping to get your advice on - I graduated from a 15-month medical coding program at my local community college in the summer of 2020. I had to wait due to covid to take an exam, so a little time as passed. My plan is to study/practice and then take the exam in March or April. I'm not working right now, so I have a lot of time to study/practice. My issue is I've become a member of Ahima and planned on taking the CCS originally. However, the more I've practiced, I've noticed that I do better with the CPT book on getting coding answers correct. Although, I've read that it's better to be credentialed with a CCS vs a CPC. (The tests aren't cheap and I just want to make sure I'm taking the best test/path for me lol) What would you suggest for me to do if you were in my shoes?

[@alexandreaturcot8921]

I also graduated from a local community College in May 2020 and did the coding and billing certificates (through the same school) in the summer of 2020 online. My 1st attempt at the AAPC CPC exam wasn't until this past fall of 2021 and I failed by 5 points! Then I had to buy the new 2022 books because of the E/M changes and to be ready for my next attempt this July ( the 19th )! These videos help me stay up to date and motivate me for the exam. I wish I had found them while I was preparing for my first attempt. I work full-time and have 4 children so the stress is real! I wish everyone all the luck in the world and would love any advice or tips for my upcoming exam! Thanks!

[@Seno278]

Keep on coding on 😊

[@Gaininglight]

Thank you for making these videos… I’m working on a plan B. Currently, I working in a project-based environment with little job security so I’m considering Medical billing as another career.

[@marquettahall9180]

I took your advice and applied to take both Ahima and NHA It was less expensive than AAPC

[@tonyawilliams8403]

Victoria Hi. I love your content, you are straight forward and very professional=) I have a background in healthcare and I am re entering the work force being very interested in remote medical coding. Where can I find the link you mentioned in this post for the Risk Adjustment Coding course you offer ? Thanx for reading.

[@Euahb]

Will you please make a video talking about what you think about CPPM?

[@ContempoCoding]

I can add it to the list. I have a few practice manager friends that have taken it. It's definitely a different flavor of certification since you're not allowed anything but a pencil.

[@veronicacruz8223]

I thank you for all your videos I am trying to decide if I should study Online which is best for me because I work in a hospital and I am a medical asst as well as cna in hospital i hope that I think it’s the right decision I know it will be your videos are great there are so many categories i patient outpatient i am trying to decide but I do like that all and thanks again if you have any suggestions great loving these videos 👍🏻

[@IslandGirl70452]

I really appreciate your videos. I am looking at beginning the CPC program at AAPC however I am not sure if I should pursue this or the CRC program. I have no coding background so I was curious what you would recommend for someone just starting.

[@melissamiller4576]

Hi Victoria question, will you be making a CIC exam tutorial or plan on getting the CIC credential?

[@tuwamarerakestraw6670]

For the AAPC CPC+CPB, do you take both exams around the same time or do you take one when you're ready and then the other? Thanks! Love your videos!

[@heatherk9181]

Hi Victoria! Would you recommend getting the CRC credential right after getting the CPC credential?

[@witterbugify]

Hi Victoria, I have become an avid follower (and subscriber) of your KZbin channel! I am about to get my CPC certification, having gone through an AAPC Coding class, but I am also very interested in Risk Adjustment. (I am WAY more comfortable coding from ICD than CPT). I know this video advertising your class is several months old, so I was wondering if your offer for $100 and interest-free payment installments, is still valid for your Risk Adjustment class? I love the way you explain things and am very interested in taking one of your classes. - Bethany

[@ContempoCoding]

Hi Bethany! I do still offer the $100 with coupon code YTCRCSALE and payment plans are still available. You can find out more on my website: contempocoding.newzenler.com/courses/risk-adjustment-coding-crc-course

[@Hippyfishhikes]

A lot of information shared here, but very helpful. I was initially going to school for AAS in HIT, but have decided I'm just going to do an intermediate certificate program and afterwards we can sit for the CCS exam so that I can get working in the field and acquire hands on experience sooner. Is it common practice for new coders to work in person for at least 1 year prior to having the opportunity to work from home? Or have you heard of new coders landing a WFH job as their first?

[@loric1909]

I want to see your daughter's beauty tutorial! that's awesome. Do you recommend a CPC first and then CRC if you're just starting in this field? Or can you just go for the CRC? Or is CRC more of a supplement to the CPC? Thanks!

[@melissamiller4576]

CPC first then CRC that was the order I took them in

[@TheAlbinoNugget]

Currently going through career step for school and I wish I had done an in school class because doing it online is rough. I’m currently learning CPT/HCPCS Coding

[@ContempoCoding]

It is rough, but hey, if it was easy everyone would be doing it, right? :)

[@JennCrafts]

I'm tempted to begin Coding Clarified because I've heard so many great things; however, I'm interested in Preppy (from your masterclass) because the price is great compared the coding clarified. Would you happen to know which course is best? pros and cons ?

[@michellehawthorne3954]

You are truly a blessing! I'll be studying and watching your videos. I would be interested in your Course for $499. Are you still offering that?

[@annamaeleibold9707]

I am just starting out in the coding world just trying to figure out what path to go down if you had any suggestions on a path, im currently a receptionist at a hearing aid center and working to be a trainee and then HIS (hearing instrument specialist) and wanted to get into coding!

[@christiecrawford1653]

I have a question. I am an LPN. I also have an A.S. degree in Science (emphasis in pre-dietetics). If I take your CRC course and am NOT credentialed with a CPC. Is it possible for me to take the CRC course and sit for the exam and find a job? Or do I need to take the CPC first?

[@SuperHappyAlice1]

Hi Victoria! I am looking to start a career in medical coding and have some years of healthcare experience in my belt. Since I'm starting out in the career and don't yet know which setting I'm most interested in. For someone in my situation, which certification would you recommend?

[@josefinamartinez3210]

Hi work in payroll department in a hospital that only coding I do is payroll do I need to take anatomy First?

[@mariaandrade6448]

Do you still have the CRC course?

[@Seno278]

😊👍

[@feliciasanmiguel3070]

Do I have to be certified in any of these fields in order to take the program

[@splattercookie5264]

Hello! So if I went the route of education through AAPC, it would be necessary to first take their anatomy & terminology bundle, correct?

[@ContempoCoding]

You can take anatomy and terminology elsewhere, it's not required to take their specific bundle.

[@BrunetteQT0525]

How do you get certified for outpatient coding?

[@princessfiona3655]

Hello, I recently graduated and now want to get into coding. I have been in healthcare for 22 years now and am familiar with ICD9/ICD 10 codes, medical terminology, etc... I am so lost tho when it comes to which coding works best for me... I don't know where to begin or what to look into. I have so many questions and just need advice based on my wants and needs. Can you help? Thank you

[@alphacodingexperts1837]

We need a makeup tutorial video 😂

[@that_girl_friend]

I'm interested in becoming a coder. I have a Bachelor's degree is Psychology and a Masters degree in Healthcare Administration. I have been a stay at home Mom for 3 years. Prior to that I worked as a case manager for special needs individuals. Would it be easier for me to take your CRC course first or should I get the CPC certification first?

[@ContempoCoding]

That's a tough question. Personal interests aside, I think it would be best to go with the CPC certification. There's a lot of great stuff included in that prep that you'll need like insurance information and stuff. I would check out and see what offers the AAPC has right now for CPC prep or if there's something offered through your local community college or tech school.

[@jacquefranklin9661]

Does your program for CRC have the exam included?

[@ContempoCoding]

No, you have to purchase the exam seperately from the AAPC.

[@simplydee2207]

I graduated in 2011 with my Medical Billing and Coding Diploma but I didn't pass my certification by 10 points so I didn't try to retest again. Which certification do you think I should start with

[@ContempoCoding]

Definitely get your AAPC membership and go for the CPC!

[@Linkasmiles]

How do I enrollbin your medical coder courses?

[@justwilla7626]

I am a Nurse Practitioner looking to transition to Coding so that I can work from home. I want to do the AHIMA certification. What is the best course to take? Must be online as I work full time.

[@amymaier9259]

What do CPC coders, fresh out of school make?

[@ContempoCoding]

That really depends on a lot of factors including location and market. I would say anywhere from 40-50k a year.

[@christallouisecomanda9303]

Hi there did you mean that if I am enrolling for CPC, you recommend AHIMA over AAPC? Thank you

[@ContempoCoding]

The CPC credential is through AAPC.

[@morgandavis1452]

Where is the link?

[@Linkasmiles]

...specifcally CPC AHIMA?

[@MaheshKumar-cx9gs]

Is CRC CODING equivalent to CPC CODING??

[@latoyagriffin1410]

I'm having a more difficult time than I thought obtaining a position with a CCA. :(

[@EzzyPascuzzi]

I’m stuck between cpc and ccs 😩

[@shaneacopeland3637]

How do you feel about NHA certificates?

[@ContempoCoding]

I think the NHA is a fine organization and I know they often include their certifications in schools and colleges. However, employers are not looking for NHA certifications. When they hire in medical coding, they want credentials through either AAPC or AHIMA.

[@shaneacopeland3637]

Contempo Coding thanks for the info !

[@dimples2379]

How about getting a CBCS is that good certification

[@ContempoCoding]

Go into indeed.com and search "CBCS" and you can see if there's any employers near you or online looking for that particular certification.

[@jasj5642]

Hello I’m interested on the programs is there anyway I can talk to you and go over the programs ty

[@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 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.

[@raunij7967]

I am a CPC and CCS I want to become a auditor can you teach me and I’m thinking about your CRC class. Gotta get some money soon before your deal goes away. This video really helped me.

[@ContempoCoding]

Rauni I appreciate you coming back to check out all my videos. I definitely need to start teaching auditing one of these days!! It is on the list. I have to add things on slowly -- once I master one project (like this KZbin channel) then I can start working on figuring out the next one.

[@raunij7967]

Contempo Coding great I’ll be there now I’m looking into getting money for your CRC class by next week I’m gonna try to borrow. 😊

[@somarble]

It is kind of hard to follow without some visual list or table listing those types.

[@bananaman411]

Is the ccs a good cert?

[@ContempoCoding]

Absolutely, the CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) credential is highly respected in the field of medical coding. It's recognized for its emphasis on mastery of inpatient and outpatient coding, and employers often regard it as a mark of a skilled coding professional. If you're considering advancing your coding career, the CCS can be a great certification to have.

[@ACantu-de8pg]

What's your email? I just may be interested in signing up for your course but I have a few questions to ask to see if MCing is right for me.