How to Self Study Medical Coding in 2024

[@MelissaMartinez-kh7ui]

I self studied and it was definitely challenging. You HAVE to be dedicated to blocking out time for studying.

[@adrianeelise3849]

Did you get a job and when did you do this?

[@1gaylas]

That would be great if you could find an affordable book.

[@Islandbeauty526]

I just passed my CPC, self study and AAPC, been working in field but just not certified. It was not difficult just a lot more pricey than I anticipated.

[@MariAymee2806]

Hi there, if you don’t mind sharing, how much would you say is the cost for doing self study? And did you buy all the recommended books?

[@Islandbeauty526]

@@MariAymee2806 I spent close to $6000.00 in total, maybe more. I went through AAPC, paid for the course, books, exams, annual fees. I did not expect it to be that much. Then you have to also pay for CEUs, $65 for a webinar that gives you 1 CEU, workshops cost more. It does cost a pretty penny

[@jadalove22]

Hi would you mind sharing how you were able to get a job in coding?

[@Islandbeauty526]

@@MariAymee2806 I took advantage of a special $3800.00 to cover study materials and 4 exam fees, 2 CPB & 2 CPC, annual fee last year $125 but this year I paid $205. Books were additional, CEUs also cost more. Practice exams were also covered in the $3800, it’s costly is all I can say.

[@Islandbeauty526]

@@jadalove22 I started working front desk at a medical practice, got interested in billing, transferred to that dept, became good at it and just kept going. Decided to get certified because I need more money and respect for what I do, things I couldn’t achieve without certification

[@SandraDee590]

Reading through the guidelines feels like torture at times 😭

[@DD-ee2nv]

Yes and according to job listings on Indeed, the pay is too low for the job.

[@robinson2589]

lol yess! but for me its only bcz i dont know what its talking about lol the more we learn the less torturous it'll be

[@robinson2589]

@@DD-ee2nv it definitely depends on our location, I think that communities with lots of hospitals and clinics like where i live in Chicago, the demand is here for sure for this profession and i've seen decent wages

[@aliciataylor3499]

@robinson2589 Wow, good to know, I'm in Illinois as well. Have you taken the exam yet?

[@stephaniestecyk2256]

I got into my community college's program and absolutely hate it, feel like I paid people to pretend like they are teaching me. I rather self study, thank you so much for this information.

[@AshleeGonzales-r2h]

I just started the online Medical Billing & Coding program at my local community college. Luckily my job pays for my tuition/books. I thought about self-study but i've been out of school for awhile, so it made more sense for me to join a program. I admire the hustle of self-studiers! good luck to everyone on their certification!

[@kristinahill7515]

Hi Victoria I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate and enjoy your videos. I’m currently studying with AAPC for my CPC. I’ve watched a TON of KZbin videos and you’re my favorite 😊 -thank you for the amazing content!!

[@blkbeauti05]

Spent about 1200 through AAPC, I ‘m already in the field and I am self studying. I have the study guide etc.

[@choiyuki-w5x]

I’m so terrible at understanding this subject but because of you I feel a little bit self confident thank you so much for those important ideas

[@willthecameraman]

I'm doing a course now. I've probably sent in 15 emails about mistakes I've found. I sent them so many they gave me 3 months ext for free for wasting my time.

[@sunny_j7030]

Hey are you like a medical coder? Because I have been wondering if the preppy course was enough and when it’s time for me to take the exam I would just purchase the books?

[@willthecameraman]

Not yet. I'm taking an online go at your own pace course and the curriculum is really bad. I haven't check out preppy yet, but that's all you need to do to get a cpc-a I believe is pass the exam. ​@@sunny_j7030

[@TalKhg]

It’s so frustrating, their mistakes have me second guessing myself! I was told they only need 80% accuracy to be able to publish the book!!

[@sherrera1871]

@@sunny_j7030I asked someone who took the preppy course and she said she basically taught herself but she passed the exam. I am taking a medical coding class and teaching myself and for me it’s been difficult. I need an instructor teaching the class.

[@robinson2589]

Im in careerstep and i like it. Its thorough

[@DefinitelyNotAFerret]

I love the Buck's textbook, it does have all the answers for the chapter "checkups" questions and the chapter review for my 2024 edition, at least so far, but the workbook... now that is where I think people are getting a little bit irked as, like you mentioned, only the odd numbered questions have answers, but there's not always equivalent questions for both the odd and even numbers; I feel like if there was an equal distribution of the even and odd questions testing everything in the chapter, it wouldn't be problem, but when odd numbered questions test a certain topic and even numbered questions test a different topic, things get messy. For example, both #1 and #2 should test knowledge of CPT inpatient consultations with different examples rather than #1 testing that and #2 testing outpatient before moving on to the next topic

[@Bliss_Harmony]

Hi Victoria, I am taking a 11 month Medical Coding and Billing program, it’s so much information to take in and process. I really want to get a thorough understanding of Health Information Management, right now I am studying the Health information Management Technology An Applied Approach Sixth Edition AHIMA book, I want to be that person who’s confident and competent, I chose this because I truly want to make a difference, I want to be a solution to the problem, any advice or anything that would really help me throughout my journey, I later want to pursue other HIM positions in HIM in the future, Thanks in Advance😊

[@aw6408]

I'm so excited about all the course you offer and plan take them all!!

[@MalcolmLawrence-g9j]

Thank you for recommending Preppy, Victoria! Been loving it so far!

[@Mju9]

Omg thank you I didn’t know there was a work book I was so lost thank you this is so much eaiser now

[@kelliontamason2009]

Great video! It was nice to see you at Healthcon 😊

[@hajark774]

"I would like to work without financial compensation as a trainee in medical coding. I have completed practical and theoretical courses, but I need work experience to build my skills."

[@changliu3708]

Hello Victoria, Glad to find your channel! I'm not a native English speaker. I want to learn medical coding but I'm afraid I won't be able to. I want to read a book first to see if I'm interested in it, could you please tell me which of 3 books I should read at first?

[@BreaBlair-u4b]

I am doing the exams now and it’s actually $475 for two attempts, they do not do a single attempt apparently 😅 I’ve already paid almost $4k with AAPC for the CPC and CBC program which is self teaching and is horrible 😵‍💫

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, that has changed since the recording of this video.

[@FedericoMortera]

This amount is for those who can afford.. very discouraging

[@JoAnnJonesholden]

do you have a preference for the medical terminology version to use?

[@merlyndawolles1626]

hello Victoria i'm a registered nurse , i have plan to take an exam this coming year what are the books that i need

[@desireeadjei9033]

My college is connected with NCCT. You can also get your certification from there.

[@susansponheimer8503]

Will you have a recording of your icd-10 seminar today? My device is having some problems.

[@aliciaramirez7194]

I already passed Billing & Coding Certificate. But they did not prepare me taking the test.

[@Euahb]

Hi Victoria , will you say that the Risk adjustment softer “ HCC coder” is good when doing risk adjustment job?

[@CaraleeMeyers]

I love your videos and find so helpful and encouraging but I'm need of some guidance and hoping you can help. I'm a audio/video/visual learner and yesterday enrolled in the Preppy course. (After watching your masterclass video) but I'm finding the course difficult to remain engaged in, as there are no video presentations with audio. Instead, they use slides that you have to click through and read on your own. Is there a course you could recommend that has recorded video presentations by people actually teaching/lecturing vs. Just reading the info off of slides? I'd really appreciate any help in finding the right course for my learning style.

[@deninevh]

Here's my question-renewing the certification, taking all the cecs, when I did it for many years as a fitness instructor, it's a real drag, I hated renewal time. Some people are great w/it, I was not. If one goes though the CPC training, passes the test, is certified, do you have to stay certified? After two years of working, say you let your cert lapse--are you still allowed to work as a coder? Diff question, same topic, you take the exam, do well,......can you get a job w/out becoming certified? Just off your passing exam score and schooling alone?

[@ContempoCoding]

To maintain your CPC certification, you do need to renew it and complete continuing education units (CEUs), which is a requirement to stay certified. If you let your certification lapse, most employers will require you to renew it, as active certification is typically a standard requirement for medical coding jobs. It is near-impossible to get a job without being certified.

[@adrianeelise3849]

If you take the course you offer is it considered a class or a course ? Like when you go to get a job is it going to be considered self study?

[@GlaciallyPaced]

Is it possible medical coding might be made obsolete because of AI? I wonder if you might make a video about this topic. Thanks!

[@sarahansen3145]

As always, thank you so much for the videos you put out. I am currently completing my certification at my local college. I needed something with a little more structure. I should have my certificate completed in November, which I am excited about. I am honestly going to this job because I want to add another job, especially because my fiancée is about to be deployed. So, I want something to help keep me busy and potentially become a second income for me. I do have a question for you. I live in the state of Alaska, and I want to get into the field of medical coding or billing. Could you give any input on which area I would have a better chance of getting a nighttime job? Or if, in this field of work, that isn't as common, which is okay too. Also, when you get your CPC do most places have a career help spot for looking for jobs?

[@seannanowland6781]

Hello! I am currently enrolled in AHIMA program through Sullivan University. I have 2 classes left in the medical coding certificate program, is there a program where I can switch to AAPC that doesn't require months of classes? Who can I discuss this with? You are very helpful, and I am sure would be able to point me in the right direction. Thank you!

[@sunitapandav5574]

Hi...which book use for chart questions for ccs exam preparation

[@tsowmyasonu2707]

Iam getting tensed still I have to complete self study icd and cpt also next month planning to attend exam mam

[@FirstName-lv8gx]

I checked out preppy. Will definitely be doing a course with them for sure. I wasnt sure about this but does Preppy pay the first exam to get certified?

[@robinson2589]

I would use a government grant if you can.. i used the wioa grant.. the federal government is paying up to 8K depending on income - to take certificate programs.. wioa Idk why no1 is talking about it

[@FirstName-lv8gx]

@@robinson2589 thank you

[@Yo-ry4ek]

@@robinson2589 do you live in Texas? I looked into it but they told me its not a approved program

[@robinson2589]

@@Yo-ry4ek oh ok, yeah that sucks. I live in chicago, IL. they may have a bit more approved. not even a billing program is approved? or also you know medical assistant progrom does learn a bit of coding too. but thts if you want to be more clinical with patients too

[@SuniKayLou]

Is it better to enroll in a program at my community college or to go down the self teach route? My local community college says it is a 12 month program which seems more lengthy than self teaching?

[@rickkane8043]

Is the books expensive? Im ready to enroll for medical coding and billing .

[@allisonsanford8016]

If my books are from 2021 do you recommend getting updated ones?

[@lisaronquillo4214]

Is it OK to watch one of your videos that are one or two years old?

[@rupagurumoorthy]

Could you help for exam preparation?

[@ContempoCoding]

As you can imagine, I receive a lot of requests for individual tutoring or one-on-one 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. 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!

[@brittanybowen5438]

I recieved my CBCS last year and I have been applying ever since with no success. Every job posting requires more than a year of experience which in a work setting I do not have. Any suggestions on how I can better improve my chances of landing a coding job?

[@gringa23]

Yeah the CBCS isn’t popular Penn foster does that but I rather save the money to get my cpc at aapc website. Now they offer coding professional where they will give you a coupon for aapc cpc exam I’m pissed but I will carry on and still get the CBCS because they cover that. Oh well it is what it is

[@jessicamontalvo2288]

Any way you could go over more hcpcs 2 transportation coding proper coding guide lines. My course doesn't really but hives me codes and I can't get them correct I get most of it but I seem to be missing something

[@MariAymee2806]

Hi Victoria, Are you the instructor for Preppy curse?

[@ContempoCoding]

I am not. With the high demand, volume of students, and my current schedule it's not possible for my to providing introductory medical coding instruction to the level that Preppy can.

[@ginarichmond8769]

Can you tell me if there is an auto reader for the 2021 medical coding training book it’s the orange book?

[@mr3nvoy640]

any discord groups that study together??

[@1storra]

What do you think about penn Foster School?

[@ContempoCoding]

For liability purposes, I do not provide feedback on programs I do not have personal experience with.

[@nirmalaganendran827]

Do you teach for certification examination

[@ContempoCoding]

Due to the extremely high demand and my desire to focus on my channel, I do not directly teach the CPC curriculum as I would not be able to provide the quality needed without hiring and managing a large team (which I suck at). I do partner with Preppy, which helps out all my viewers with getting amazing training and customer support. You can find out more by signing up for my free career 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.

[@Focustrail]

I have been studying for the cpc exam I feel like I’m so behind guys any tips?

[@DaileyThrifts]

I work as CNA at the hospital right now. If I take my cpc through AAPC or AHIMA , will inpatient or outpatient hospitals hire me, or do I need different certificates for inpatient hospitals or outpatient hospitals?

[@ContempoCoding]

Hey! If you get your CPC through AAPC or AHIMA, it's a total maybe for inpatient or outpatient hospitals hiring you. Inpatient hospitals might prefer more specialized certs like CIC or CCS, but it really depends on the employer. Good luck!

[@muangsaechao7259]

Hi Victoria. I am currently in preppy school for coding. The books that preppy sent icd 10 CM and CPT Plus. Can we use these books sitting for the exam for aapc?

[@ContempoCoding]

Those books are great for learning but for the certification exam only the AMA edition of CPT is permitted. HCPCS and ICD versions do not matter. Contact Preppy and they can assist you with getting the right ones for the AAPC exam when you're ready to sit for it.

[@KenneMarie]

@@ContempoCoding to piggyback this question, does preppy provide the books for the ones needed at the exam? I emailed them and only sent me same books as original comment mentioned. They said hcpcs can be accessed via link they provide on the email. I’m disappointed to heart that.

[@jessicah4465]

I have a question about the preppy course, in order to pass it with 70% on all tests/exams through the course work--are we able to retake the tests in the preppy platform in order to pass it all for the certification?

[@emilyburakowski1001]

You can take take the exams/tests twice

[@jessicah4465]

@emilyburakowski1001 for the preppy course or are you referring to the aapc exam?

[@emilyburakowski1001]

@@jessicah4465 the preppy course. You get two try’s for all the exam you’ll take . They are also not times so you can stop at a question whenever you want

[@LuluRoseBella]

If you taking the 2025 test can you use the 2024 books?

[@ContempoCoding]

The exams get a refresh every January 1st to reflect the current calendar year's code sets. So, even though ICD-10-CM codes might update on October 1st, those changes won't show up in the exam until the new year rolls around. 🗓️ Feel free to use last year's books, but just know you might be at a slight disadvantage. For the full scoop, check out AAPC's official guidance: www.aapc.com/certification/faq.aspx " What year's books should I use? All AAPC exams are based on the current calendar year’s code sets, so we strongly suggest you use the current year’s books. The previous calendar year’s books may be used on an exam, but you would be at obvious disadvantage doing so. The upcoming year’s books are not allowed for exam use. The exams are updated every January for the new code sets."

[@dipalimahajan9457]

Hi Victoria I have 1 question I am from India just moved to US . I have masters in Biotechnology. Can I apply for coc certification in US?

[@ContempoCoding]

Anyone who pays for AAPC membership and pays the exam fee can take their exams. Happy studying.

[@dipalimahajan9457]

Thank u

[@parularora5639]

Hello Dipali..my name is parul..iam adentust..I also want to do medical coding.. Can we connect?

[@lindasalahat5035]

HOW MUCH YOUR CLAS COST ?

[@ContempoCoding]

If you're looking for me personally to teach you, I do not teach medical coding classes due to my extreme popularity and desire to keep me business small. However, if you are looking for information on how to become a medical coder, check out medicalcodingmasterclass.com for my free career masterclass and find out more about the program I recommend, Preppy.

[@danielmoore4311]

How much manual coding is actually performed by a person on a daily basis (searching through code books, researching code, etc) vs reliance on a software program that handles these tasks?

[@ContempoCoding]

It varies by organization. So anywhere from 50-100%.

[@Islandbeauty526]

Definitely depends on the facility. I’ve seen some fantastic EHRs that helps a lot with codes

[@binalgajjar2781]

Is preppy ks ahima or aapc accredited?

[@ContempoCoding]

There are no official prerequisites or accreditation considerations for medical coding certifications. They are not regulated. You just need to pay to become a member, and pay for a pass the exam.

[@ContempoCoding]

There is no such designation as "accredited." There are programs that use the AAPC curriculum, but no consideration of affiliation, accredited, etc, when it comes to the AAPC. AHIMA only requires accreditation for their RHIT, RHIA, etc that require formal college degrees, not the billing and coding certifications. You can take any AAPC exam any time that you pay for -- there is no required training program you must take. Personally I would go with Preppy as it offers more and will count towards the 80 contact hours to remove 1 year of apprenticeship designation for the CPC certification through the AAPC.

[@dipalimahajan9457]

CPC exam