Medical Coding Certifications Explained: CPC, CCS, and More

[@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!

[@idalizalaboy7954]

I have the CPC and the CIC, It opened a lot of opportunities with great pay

[@sowhat1191]

Any online courses that are worth recommending? I just ordered my books yesterday.

[@pinkbutterfliesss]

@@sowhat1191 are you taking cpc? is cpc good for a first medical coding certification? im anxious that i might waste money and time for a certificate that give me struggle for a job

[@sowhat1191]

@@pinkbutterfliesss I want to take the CCS certification exam. I’ve been researching jobs for over a year now. I see plenty in this field. All remote.

[@gingerroberts4940]

Would you be willing to share where you got your certs and approx pay?

[@dncefrq9049]

@@gingerroberts4940 I’m not the original person you questioned but I studied with career step and then took the cpc and passed the first attempt. I’ve been doing it for 5+ years and now code specialty Ob/gyn and let’s just say I get paid well and am happy with my job! The key is know you’re worth. More experience= more pay and if the place you’re at isn’t willing to give you a raise with new credentials, look elsewhere. Good luck

[@nicoleworkman3142]

Idk how many of them will take heed but i drop your KZbin handle in my classes every time they mention Medical Billing and Coding. Your videos saved me from half a lifetime of bs I didn't even know to expect. That allowed me to drop my education plan down to something I could realistically handle long term. A Business Information Technology Certificate.

[@melaniejohnson3130]

I'm starting my medical billing and coding adventure. School starts today. Medical terminology 1st. I've been in the medical field as a CNA, wanted to stay in the field but not patient care.

[@TaylerAndersen-i2h]

Likewise! Best decision I ever made 100% I hated breaking my back!

[@sowhat1191]

How’s it going for you? I just ordered my books.

[@pinkbutterfliesss]

@@sowhat1191 where did you order?

[@sowhat1191]

@@pinkbutterfliesss I ordered from AHIMA.

[@Mimi-hn6iv]

You are an absolutely wealth of knowledge. Thank you for sharing! ❤

[@kristyhunter1981]

CCS-P here but I plan on getting my CCS also💜

[@DajanaWindtSpaargaren]

I have CBCS with NHA. 9 month program at college. Do not waste your time as this certificate is never looked for by employers.

[@tinawestra2571]

This is the certification I started with last June. It was enough training to get me into AAPC and I just passed my CPC certification last month! Yes, I didn't find anyone who wanted that certification.

[@DajanaWindtSpaargaren]

@@tinawestra2571 I am aiming for Ahima CCS in the future. Just have to find a class that teaches CPS- inpatient coding.

[@tinawestra2571]

@@DajanaWindtSpaargaren it's a good thing Victoria goes through the certifications for AHIMA as well as AAPC! Good Luck!

[@shanekabynum6044]

Exactly! i'm stuck with this CBCS and have found no job with it

[@angiewilliams8573]

​@@DajanaWindtSpaargaren are you not able to self study using purchased books and then take the exam?

[@davidgleason6400]

I really appreciate your channel, it has helped me understand this career choice, wish I would have known before I started school. I now have my AAPC CPC-A (September 2023) and I have a couple of years medically billing for my daughters LMT business. I have found that searching for a remote job in this field is / has not been easy. Can you shed some light on what companies I should pursue for employment to get the experience I need to build additional opportunities? Any input is much appreciated.

[@calllmebk]

Would you say a certificate in CPC pays a good amount starting? I’m looking to start on preppy and want to know if it’s worth paying the $1,599?

[@kristashafer93098]

Salary varies quite a bit. Factors like your geographic region, type of facility you work at, and of course your particular employer all affect your salary. I suggest you go to your favorite web search engine and ask for cpc salary in your zip code. That should bring up some good information to answer your question.

[@kevinfoteck3617]

Hi Victoria. I wish to know which specialties pay the most in the coding field? Also, which specialties do you think are of high demand?

[@ContempoCoding]

Specialties like interventional radiology, anesthesia, and inpatient coding often pay more due to their complexity. High demand areas typically include outpatient surgery, emergency medicine, and risk adjustment coding. Keep in mind, demand and pay can vary based on region and workplace.

[@kevinfoteck3617]

Thank you so much.

[@balikbayanscloset]

Hi I’ve been following your channel since I started my medical coding journey. (No medical background at all and your channel has helped me a lot when I was studying) I passed my CPC exam 3 years ago and been working in an Outpatient setting for 2 years now. I wanted to get certified for CIC then I saw this video. Now I am leaning to CCS as I wanted to do Inpatient Coding as a next step of my career. Should I pursue CCS or do specialty instead?

[@susiearchibald411]

How well do you do financially working outpatient ??

[@nazneenkhan5426]

Thank you, your videos are very helpful in preparing for exams .I have to retake my CPC exam in Feb 2024,I took my test first time dec 2023.My question is will the retake exam will be same as the previous year or is there new exam pattern with all of the updates (2024)?Do I need to purchase new books?

[@uunniiqquuee]

Thank you so much for the honesty and helpful tips. 😁😁

[@abodyforall]

I have applied for too much jobs 😩, for this past month the problem is cpc-a jobs are low in number, also I noticed that there's too many organisations need biller and coder at the same time

[@dncefrq9049]

CPC-A, get a billing job at first then apply to have the Apprentice taken off, then apply for a coding job. This is what I did,Good luck

[@rerejackson252]

I have my RHIT and got a entry level ancillary position a few months after graduating. Got offered an inpatient position with my RHIT but I plan on getting my CPC and CRC

[@nicolekaplan4349]

I took a Medical Billing and Coding Program with Unitech Training Academy. I was told that I would be a certified coder I took the NCCT and earned my NCICS National Certified Insurance and Coding Specialist. What a waste of time and money. I have to say Victoria you have guided me through and I passed the test watching a lot of your videos. I’m now studying for my CPC! Will I have to buy new books for 2024 if I’m taking the test in March or can I use 2023 books?

[@made432]

@@nicolekaplan4349 I would never recommend going to these types of programs because they charge a lot of money and they are not valuable in the workforce

[@miahovinga7158]

Great video! Thanks for explaining! Question!!! I know I can self-study for CPC thru AAPC but could I also go the self-study route to get CCS certification thru AHIMA or do I have to attend an accredited program?

[@ContempoCoding]

You can self-study for the CCS through AHIMA, but I don't have any particular recommendations on how to accomplish that.

[@miahovinga7158]

@@ContempoCoding ok thank you!

[@FeliciaSanmiguel]

I would absolutely love to work in dialysis and specialize in that

[@jesseisalive9443]

Victoria, Can you do a video on coding epilepsy. I’m finding it difficult understanding the codes. Other epilepsy, not intractable, unknown epileptic. And other epilepsy intractable epileptic. My understanding is that not intractable is a person on seizure medication but still had a breakthrough seizure, and status epileptic means if the patient had anymore seizures while hospitalized. Can you explain these codes in leymans terms please.

[@shereejohnson9392]

I have a CBCS from the NHA. Is it one of those that isn't up to par with what employers are looking for? I've only had the certification for a few days, but I haven't seen any job postings that specifically say "CBCS" and I'm getting worried about my future in this business.

[@teresanajera9636]

Hi! I am looking into getting my CCS certification. I have no prior coding experience but I do have my bachelors in Biomedical sciences and I currently work for a Medicare advantage health insurance company. I was looking at AHIMA requirement’s but was still a little confused since we have to apply to determine if we are eligible for the test. I was wondering if I could apply to take the CCS without any specific experience or education in coding?

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, AHIMA only has "recommendations" on training for the CCS, and no hard requirements.

[@teresanajera9636]

Thank you so much!

[@donica5860]

​@@ContempoCoding I have no experience, lol can I get both certification for cpc and ccs?, I realy want to try to get ccs first

[@DavidBurke-h3w]

Your videos are very helpful. I want to provide training for my billers at a mental health counseling center. It is a pretty narrow focus, do you have a recommendation on what training or certification to pursue?

[@LynnHanson-v1v]

I love your videos-they're always so very helpful! I currenlty have my RHIT and am wondering if it's worth paying for another membership with AAPC to get my CPC? Membership and testing costs can be pricey so I'm curious what you think would be helpful when looking to get hired as a medical coder?

[@poppajoe69]

On November 14, 2023, I completed a 15 month online HIMBC diploma program through Blue Cliff College Metairie and on November 15th, I started their online Associate of Science HIMBC degree program. Included with tuition was the exam fee through the NHA and certification is for Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and I sit for the exam March 28th. I'll complete the degree program in August as I was credited 69 course credit hours for the diploma program. Are those credentials worthless? I feel really deflated right now.

[@ContempoCoding]

Congratulations on completing your diploma and continuing with your degree program! If you're looking to do billing, most employers will not require a certification. However, if you're aiming for a coding job, you might want to consider obtaining the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification from the AAPC. A quick search on job sites like Indeed.com often shows a higher demand for CPC credentials compared to CBCS. It's important to note that the CPC certification requires 80 contact hours of coding education for one year's removal off the two-year apprenticeship status. While your current credits might not directly count towards this, the knowledge and experience you're gaining are still valuable. Don't feel deflated; every step you take is progress, and you're building a solid foundation for your career. You can always continue to grow and add more credentials as you progress!

[@hildamendez1866]

@contempoCoding Hi Victoria, I was a medical auditor for a major insurance company for 3 years. I audited inpatient claims when certifications were not needed. When certifications came out I took the exam and did not pass. I would love to get back in the industry. I still have a membership with AAPC. Would the correct course of action be CPC then CIC? Will the prior experience I have help remove the apprentice status after I pass the test? Do you think I should start with a refresher course before I dive into the CPC & CIC prep?

[@ninetjn]

Going with Ahima but I don't know if I should go with CCS or CCS-P

[@tlcokley76]

Victoria, do you have your CPCO? I am looking for information on it … I do compliance in the work comp realm and just figured this might give me an extra edge

[@ContempoCoding]

I do not have my CPCO.

[@dory5715]

I completed my Medical Billing and Coding course in April 2024. Is there an online review or ways to study effectively that you can recommend ? Thank you.

[@delilaalem3914]

Hi i have HIT degree and pharmacy tech background. I love working with medications, i wonder which coding certificate i should foucs, or should i not limit myself only on medications? Thanx

[@ContempoCoding]

There isn’t a specific medical coding certification solely focused on medications, but your background in pharmacy tech and HIT gives you a strong foundation for areas like risk adjustment coding or specialty coding in fields like oncology or chronic disease management, where medication usage and tracking play a significant role. You might consider starting with a general coding certification like the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) or CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) to keep your options open. These credentials are widely recognized and can lead to roles that involve a variety of coding specialties, including those related to medications. It’s also a good idea not to limit yourself strictly to medications. Broader coding knowledge will make you more versatile and competitive in the job market, and you can always use your pharmacy expertise as a valuable niche skill.

[@delilaalem3914]

@ContempoCoding I don't have enough words to thank you...but thank you so much for even responding.

[@kwanladablair2401]

I was an elementary ed. teacher for 12 years and have been a stay at home mom for the past 6 years. I am at the early stage of looking into this field. I am very interested in its flexibility schedule as my kids are 3 and 6. I really want to commit but scared of the cost and the fact that my background is completely unrelated to the medical field. Any advice?

[@susiearchibald411]

I have the option of getting my TC in a shorter amount of time at my college or go for my associates, I then can test for my CPC…does it make sense to get my associates or will I still be able to get a decent job with just getting my Technical Certificate?

[@LadymadeStar]

Hi i recently passed my CIC exam and I am interested to add a certification. Is CPC and COC a good to go or anything you might suggest to increase my credentials? Thank you!

[@ContempoCoding]

Congratulations on passing your CIC exam! Adding the CPC or COC certifications is a great idea, as they expand your expertise into outpatient (CPC) or hospital outpatient (COC) coding, making you more versatile. If you’re looking to further specialize, consider certifications like CRC (Certified Risk Adjustment Coder) or CPMA (Certified Professional Medical Auditor) to boost your credentials and stand out in niche areas. Choose based on the direction you’d like to take your career!

[@keerthia4982]

Which certificate is best for beginners?

[@snookie91986]

Hi Victoria. I received my CPC towards the end of December and have no health care experience. Any suggestions in my job search?

[@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!

[@made432]

I am getting my accounting degree online at a community college. I rather put the money towards something beneficial long term. This past Summer, I trained for the my CPC through Udemy. I did the coursea first, then did the Udemy training and brought the books. I did self study. Cheaper than taking out a loan. After my associates in accounting, I will be getting my bachelors in accounting and master’s in Health Information Management. (HIM is still accredited to sit for the top exam.) CUNY SPS

[@epie_1111]

I’m getting my masters in Healthcare informatics. Since I plan on getting my RHIT, does it make sense to take the CPC or the CCS. I have some medical record experience but no certifications. Thank You!

[@Mika-rv3jm]

I know this video is over a month old, but I'm hoping someone will answer my comment still. My local community college offers a 2-semester certification program, and it ends with a CCA exam, which I'm reading is AHIMA. Is that worth it, or should I look somewhere else for the CPC?

[@pinkbutterfliesss]

hello, what choice did you choose? im also wondering if i should take cpc as a first certificate

[@Mika-rv3jm]

@@pinkbutterfliesss I ended up getting a loan through the AAPC so I could do my CPC/CPB. I made this decision after looking around on job sites and seeing how few listed the CCA certification as acceptable, whereas almost all of them said the CPC was. It sucks that I couldn’t get financial aid to pay like if I had gone through the college, but I think this will benefit me in the long run. Have a good day!

[@balmzandbodi]

I hear of people starting their own medical billing business from home. Can that be done with medical coding as well? I have a hard time finding this time of business.

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, starting a home-based medical coding business is possible, much like medical billing. It requires solid coding expertise, industry connections, and understanding of healthcare compliance and business operations. Networking and certifications can help establish credibility and attract clients.

[@balmzandbodi]

@@ContempoCoding Thank you so much. I really appreciate your expertise and content. God bless 🌷

[@graceharper6384]

I am an RN looking to switch from bedside nursing. Which should I choose -CCS or CPC to better fit my educational background. Thanks.

[@ContempoCoding]

As an RN, both the CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) and CPC (Certified Professional Coder) are great options, but it depends on your career goals. The CCS is ideal if you're looking to work in hospital settings and focus on inpatient coding, while the CPC is more focused on outpatient coding. Your clinical background will help with either, but choose based on the type of coding environment you prefer.

[@kelvinsvid8324]

What is the passing score for bchh-c home health exam?

[@guduputibhargavi427]

Hlooo victoria which certificate is best cpc or ccs

[@ContempoCoding]

Both good choices, but totally different types of coding. CPC does not cover any ICD-10-PCS, which is heavy on the CCS.

[@Lily20217]

Can you provide me with more information on chart production? While I understand how production jobs work, does the number of charts vary?

[@ContempoCoding]

It varies greatly depending on the type of coding, specialty, and organization.

[@Lily20217]

Thank you@@ContempoCoding. I really enjoy your content, which is beneficial for learning about medical coding.

[@jky1847]

I just finished my Preppy course and received my medical billing and coding specialist certificate from NWCA. Does this have the same weight as the AAPC?

[@ContempoCoding]

Not to employers, employers generally want certifications from AAPC or AHIMA for coding positions.

[@Cracktheclock]

After cpc certification next exams or any suggestions??

[@ContempoCoding]

I discuss making that decision in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJfGknSYfNGJr8ksi=_IAL1wG0JgazkEMe

[@cathyortiz5911]

Once i pass my CPC certificate deal - is that equal to an AA or BA degree? Or.... ?

[@made432]

No. It’s not. It’s just a certification.

[@aarefamehboob5260]

I'm CPC certified. And want to prepare for CCS. Am I eligible or do I need any kind of experience.

[@sunitapandav5574]

Hi....my ccs csore 294 and i want give one more time when it possible

[@ContempoCoding]

Good luck!

[@sunitapandav5574]

I want information about how to prepare for case scenario

[@sunitapandav5574]

Passing score is 300 so I want case scenario study material idea

[@ContempoCoding]

Sorry I don't have experience with the AHIMA certs.

[@susansponheimer8503]

Going toward either my CCS or CIC. Whichs coding schools do you recommend?

[@balikbayanscloset]

Looking for recommendations too.

[@sumerahsumera9098]

Are you in America I’m in New York Longisland plz tell me is there any scope to get a job here?

[@letyreyna6511]

Hello I had left message on other vis unable to register for free master class tried again and still can't register please help thank you and be safe

[@tiareclement]

I am told first certification exam with Ahima is a CCA then you can take your CCS. Will I not find a job starting as a CCA?

[@ContempoCoding]

That is no longer true, you do not have to get your CCA before getting your CCS per the eligibility requirements on the AHIMA website: www.ahima.org/certification-careers/certification-exams/ccs/

[@tiareclement]

I should just take the extra classes and go straight to ccs correct? I am getting very confused, as my teacher said would need exam first. Thank you for your help. I am feeling like I should of just done CPC.@@ContempoCoding

[@tiareclement]

I see it says hold CCA credentials.@@ContempoCoding

[@jayakumarl26]

Hi mam, I am from India working in HCC coding 2 years experience also CPC complete. Now am intersted to work on USA. How to find jobs mam

[@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!

[@fatoumaibrahima963]

Thanks for all the helpful tips. I have a 2021 CCS manuals. Do you recommend using these for review?

[@gurmansinghgill7115]

Hlo mam I have commented on previous video too. Please guide me

[@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!

[@gurmansinghgill7115]

@@ContempoCoding yes but I just need a bit guidance I can ask my question in comments if you can answer by sparing some time

[@jessicacolon1376]

@@gurmansinghgill7115 maybe if you ask the question in the coments, somebody can help you.

[@andrewarchuleta-qi3ep]

She talks so fast I cant keep up!

[@ContempoCoding]

I understand that my pacing is not fit for everyone. Thankfully KZbin does allow the video to be watched at various speeds to meet your preferred pacing. You can find instructions on how to do so here: support.google.com/youtube/answer/7509567?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop