Prepare for the CPC Exam - Tips to Get Ready for Your Medical Coding Certification

Are you preparing to take the AAPC CPC exam?
This video is for you! In it, I offer some tips and advice on how to best prepare for the test. I also share a few resources that can help you get ready. Good luck!
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[@rachie9406]

I just took my test two days ago and passed!! 86%! Thank you SO much for all the advice that helped get me to that place! Tip for any test takers: process of elimination is your best friend! I used a white board and wrote down a,b,c,d and then put an X next to answers I knew were wrong (ex: the code is for someone younger than five years and the patient in the question was 20) it helps a lot as all the numbers can get jumbled up when reading. I also recommend taking it online. No distractions and you can break up the test into two sessions, each two hours. I took part one on Wednesday and part two Thursday. The break in between helped a ton as your eyes and brain get exhausted. I hope this helps!

[@unappealingundesirable2826]

How many "non-coding" questions were there? Things like anatomy questions, like that? Either we know them or we don't, but at least it won't take as much time. Also, how hard were the Anesthesia questions, on the test you took? Great job getting an 86! I would be ecstatic with a 75!

[@stacydonnelly4035]

@@unappealingundesirable2826 There weren't too many non-coding questions that I recall. I have a chart in my book for the anesthesia modifiers and notes for the rules so those weren't bad :)

[@rachie9406]

@@unappealingundesirable2826 thank you so much! As for non coding questions like anatomy I’d say there were only a few maybe around 5-6. I found it helpful marking in my cpt book where there is a list at the beginning of the book of anatomical illustrations-that was a life saver. The ICD-10 also has a lot of anatomy images that can really help. As for anesthesia there were a few that were time related so making sure you understand the guidelines will be important. They were tricky though with how some were worded so I probably got a couple wrong so don’t worry if they stump you:) best of luck to you! ❤️

[@unappealingundesirable2826]

@@rachie9406 To Rachel and Stacy, I never fully "tabbed" my books, until I did it last night. I found "Anatomy Illustrations," last night, and my GOODNESS, that can be HUGE. This can mean 2-4 points for me, and of course, that can be the difference between a 67 and a 70. It's good to know that those pictures ARE in there somewhere! Did anybody here get on the CPC exam, "What does the Tympanic Membrane contain," like they had on an AAPC chapter test? I also saw on an Anesthesia question, wording that threw me off! And, I could have picked one of the wrong answers, because I didn't know if that "last 30 minutes" actually counted (I thought once the physician "releases" you to the next department/doctor, is when Anesthesia Time ends). Another question for all of you: Where is the Exam Preparation section of the book? I saw a tab labeled that, but couldnt' find it. I have the AAPC 2022 books. My course includes two attempts, so while I'd love to pass the first time, I can accept stumbling and bumbling this first time, and "using this as a learning experience."

[@unappealingundesirable2826]

Also to Rachel and Stacy: How tough did each of you find the Cardiovascular questions, on your respective exams? I heard going into this course, that the Cardiovascular and E/M chapters were what "threw most people off." And, if either of you have any last minute pointers for me, nothing is "too minor" to tell me. You might help me go from a 67 to a 70, with a seemingly "routine" pointer.

[@nicolestraka8875]

WooHoo! I passed my CPC! Third times a CHARM! On the first test I scored a 69 in April, and went back in June and got a 68...Initially, I felt great after the second test and thought that I did pretty well. After receiving my score I felt defeated! I went back July 10th to Van Nuys with ZERO expectations and passed with a 79. I was ELATED, to say the least. I'd like to mention this...There was a HCPCS question that I remember and struggled with. The modifiers I don't feel were correct at all...I could be wrong however I remember them and could not find them at all that corresponds to the HCPCS question. I'm still baffled. Thanks to @Contempo Coding for the tips and tricks it helped me immensely!

[@mariannavelasquez958]

Thank you, Victoria! I just got my AAPC membership yesterday. I am on my last week of externship (required from my school in order to graduate), got my 2022 books to tab, prep, and utilize it just for CPC. I am using my 2021 HCPCS. I am considering renting out a private room study. Today is official day for classes being completed and graduation day is a month from now. But my goal is to study and practice and practice the exams and get ready for the CPC. Thanks to you and many others (mostly you) helped so much! Thank you so much Victoria! I am ready to take your class review before taking the test. I'll keep posted by commenting in the future and cannot wait for that big day in celebration.

[@QUADacityLyfe]

I'm in the process of doing the course. I see I should've did this with an instructor. My discipline all over the place. I've been reading through each chapter and writing down important notes. I'm super nervous that I'm taking down information that I might not be tested on.

[@krismariediaz4426]

Hi Victoria, I didn’t pass my CPC test, I’m going to retake the test on Saturday, but I’m so frustrated about the section on surgery and the hospital.

[@daor775]

Hi Victoria! I wanted to ask you if just practicing with the CPC mock exams is enough to review for the test? I am currently a student with the AAPC online class. We have chapter quizzes and tests for each chapter. The amount of test material is enormous. What in your opinion is the best route to go. Just doing mini mock exams over and over through CCO and AAPC?

[@angieherron5305]

Thank you Victoria! You have been such a help! I just passed my CPC exam yesterday!!! ❤️

[@ContempoCoding]

AHHHHH!!! That's so awesome, Angie!!! CONGRATS to you, new coder!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@angieherron5305]

@@ContempoCoding Thank you so so much!!!!! You're such a blessing!!

[@itsamaree9009]

@@angieherron5305 is there any information that you can give about the test such as best ways to tab the book for specific sectioned questions?

[@itsamaree9009]

@@angieherron5305 congratulations 💕💕🎉

[@angieherron5305]

@@itsamaree9009 Hi Amaree! I was say tab it as much or as little as you prefer. I tabbed my books a lot but honestly the tabs did get in the way during the exam. For me, it was worth it though. I also wrote in my book a lot. Lots of notes ,not as much as some people, because I was eager to take the exam and it Can be a lot of writing and highlighting. Put key differences by important codes or as many codes as you can. Be sure to know where to go for Q modifiers. I wrote some down in the front of my book. When you do the practice exams on AAPC, write down the rationale or key points next to the codes you missed. Also, all of those codes in the red that are not where they’re supposed to be, look them up (or as many as you can) and write the correct page number next to the code in red. That helps you get to them quicker! Hope that helps! Xoxo

[@josephmartinez3851]

Thank you so much Victoria... for your videos I just received the news that I passed the cpc certification exam... So happy I owe you an edible arrangement...

[@ContempoCoding]

Oh that's so awesome!! Congrats, Joseph!

[@sarahfreire]

what webcam you used? thanks for all the info! :)

[@softsix]

You should do a new one now that they've made the tests available online!!

[@erincampieri5254]

I took part one of my online CPC exam this morning I was curious if you know if part two is harder or if they mix the questions up in both one and two

[@hopemoch4354]

I took my exam this past Wednesday. The wait for the results is nerve wrecking😩

[@allmightysarbear]

Took mine Saturday- I feel you! 😆

[@anjali9384]

how to prepare give some idea

[@hopemoch4354]

I PASSED!!!! THE WAIT WAS BRUTAL. Thank you Victoria!

[@sweetqueenladybug2028]

@@hopemoch4354 congratulations

[@cortneyellyn3233]

Hope how much medical terminology/ anatomy etc did you know beforehand? Also congrats!!

[@marieeverett3289]

How do you get the physical copy of the textbook? I only got digital copies of this and the workbook?

[@TessahTozer]

I feel very defeated, I am almost finished with my Carrington College medical coding and billing they are connected with NHA so I will take the CBCS. This seems to not be a sought-after certification by employers. I am wanting to get my CPC or CCA completed and am wondering what steps you would suggest for me to get prepared for those exams?

[@truthefish9715]

where did you purchase the camera?

[@RobynWright]

Will they let you have a lighted magnifying glass when you take the test online? I am using mine all the time while I'm taking my course - those codes are hard to read!

[@nancyway6716]

Thanks!

[@ContempoCoding]

Thank you, Nancy!

[@koolvits]

Hi. I want to join, but I want to know what to expect if I join? I'm studying for my Coding credentials. I have been procrastinating, will there be a lot Pre-op scenarios here? thank you.

[@anti-consumerism6178]

Is it okay to purchase the books and self study or do you think courses are worth the price?

[@kemog5135]

Hi Victoria thank you for all your videos. I have a question I purchased the aapc practice exams but, never took them and now they expired. Can you recommend a website to take a mock test. Thank you

[@evelyn1913]

I think you can call AAPC and ask for an extension on the practice exams.

[@PrayerWarriorMama]

Hi Victoria! I have been an RN for 16 years working in general areas but also specific areas such as oncology, inpatient and outpatient. What do you recommend as far as a self learning CPC coding program for someone with medical background. I’m looking to shift into working remotely and away from patient care. Any info is appreciated. Thank you

[@kathrynthompson4028]

I don't know if this ever got a response, but my local library actually offers an EXCELLENT introductory course for free on medical coding. I think they went through Gale Courses, which you could go to directly, say you don't have a local library with this offering, but I cannot stress how great their course is as far as how well structured the instruction is, and completely online at your own pace with no required zoom attendance or anything like that.

[@lubnaabbasi8499]

@@kathrynthompson4028 plz provide a link for that course

[@traceycopley6161]

I am going on my 4th time in taking my cpc exam. I do not take test good at all. I get really bad anxiety. I pray that watching your videos it will help me

[@prashanthpathepuram]

I'm also

[@joannalyn4208]

Perfect timing! I take my exam this Saturday😬

[@fearfullywonderfullife]

Me too! 😩😩 I pray you pass! Good luck! 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@tothecore2253]

i recommend that you look for Hoang Nguyen on youtube so you can learn his strategies for process of elimination for the CPC exam. He has over 20yrs of medical coding experience and it would be a great idea for you to check it out before your exam on Saturday. His strategies will help you to save time on this exam.

[@tothecore2253]

​@@fearfullywonderfullife look for Hoang Nguyen on youtube. he teaches process of elimination for the CPC exam and will save you lots of time. i recommend you check out his strategies before taking your exam.

[@itsamaree9009]

Same here 🤞🏾

[@najusidhiqueks7402]

Hi. Can i get any information about the cpc exam date in abudhabi.plz help me

[@erinhearn3350]

I have a practice test that ask for the icd code and journey?? Anyone know. Like for mild persistent asthmas code is j45.30 so what’s the journey. What am I missing

[@XCrane-kt5rq]

does anyone have a youtube video on modifiers

[@claudiacocina3983]

Tips please on timing!!!. Going for my 2nd attempt next month. I got a 68 the first time but I didn't answer 15 questions because I ran out of time. Thanks

[@tothecore2253]

look for Hoang Nguyen on youtube. He teaches process of elimination for the CPC exam and will save you lots of time. He has over 20yrs experience in medical coding.

[@MrsHound]

Has anyone used Quizlet recently (July ‘23?) Is it worth the cost or no? Ty

[@tasha17lynnw]

With the Preppy Cert program, does the program include a certification course in Medical Term and A&P ?

[@tasha17lynnw]

Or is this recommended before signing up for the preppy MBC program?

[@austinaustinaj6873]

Mam. Can I share the CPC membership ID with someone..for any verification.

[@trelipelakeable]

I’m going to take the CPC exam for the 4th time soon. Hope to pass. I have been really frustrated with this exam in the past. Took it online-did not like it at all.

[@ContempoCoding]

Believe in yourself and you will soar to success!

[@angeladiggs3844]

How long should I spend on each question

[@adrianyu8083]

are there any cpc examinations here in the Philippines?

[@jerricad123]

I am completely overwhelmed by choices of schools or places to get training. I would like something self paced but that has teachers if that makes sense. i'm seeing extremely different prices for what is included between preppy, AAPC, and a couple others and don't know what my best options are. Are there any programs you would honestly recommend?

[@tasha17lynnw]

Following I having a hard time deciding to either take separate AHIMA courses which are 375.00 a piece or doing the Preppy which I cant decide because I cant see how it is broke out unless I buy it

[@jayhutch794]

@@tasha17lynnw preppy

[@CROCOvods]

Hello, I have the books from 2021, I want to take the exam in a month. I see that you have the 2022 books, Can I use these books or I have to have the ones for this current year? Thank you

[@ContempoCoding]

You are still permitted to use the 2021 book but may be at a disadvantage due to code changes. The exam will be based on 2022 codes starting January 1. I would direct you to the guidance provided by the AAPC: www.aapc.com/certification/faq.aspx " What year's books should I use? Since the code sets for each coding book are updated every year, it’s essential for coders to have the current year’s books/manuals to ensure accurate performance. Reporting wrong codes can lead to denied claim submissions and substantial penalization. It’s clearly very important to get an education on the annual code set updates and to obtain new code books every year. 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. Examinees using their second attempt in the next calendar year will not be permitted to take the previous year's exam. Note: Please make sure you are now using ICD-10 CM or ICD-10 PCS when needed."

[@MKYang10]

I'm new here! I'm going to school for medical coding and in my last semester. I want to know when is the best time to take the exam? Soon after graduation, once I get a job? Any help is appreciated. Thanks

[@colleenrichardson5339]

I suggest taking the exam as soon as you finish your classes. For me, taking it right after classes helped because all the course material was so fresh in my mind.

[@XCrane-kt5rq]

If anyone can please suggest a tutor for the CPC exam!!!! I have mental learning disabilities. I truly thought this degree was going to be easy and I was going to be good at it. I asked my school for help barely anyone does. I asked students for help no one does. Are there tutors for hire anywhere for the CPC exam or medical coding in general?

[@ContempoCoding]

Check out tutors.com or wyzant.com

[@ashleybrandon4797]

I've taken the CPC exam 3 times and still didn't pass. The first time I took it was when it was still 150 questions and 5 hr and 40 mins. Last 2 exams were the current way. Both times I felt so rushed in the end. I got a 68% 2nd time and a 67% the 3rd. It's so beyond frustrating. I've been doing the practice exams, I just need to get faster I guess. All the sections I did first on the 2nd exam I did really good, I did the hard ones first, like a goober. 3rd time I did the easy ones first and I got 5 100% but then I saved my case studies until the end and ran out of time and got a 30%. My 2nd exam I did my case studies first and I got a 90%. I'm trying so hard not to get discouraged.

[@AniruddhaKale-ys2bq]

We are learning from you , thank you so much… hope you will pass… god bless you …. Love you from india 🇮🇳

[@tothecore2253]

look for Hoang Nguyen on youtube. He teaches process of elimination for the CPC exam and you will save lots of time with his tips. He has coding experience for over 20yrs

[@AniruddhaKale-ys2bq]

@@tothecore2253 i just watched his video he is best concept clear for cpc

[@nicolestraka8875]

Ashley, I took my exam in April and ran out of time...I filled in about 15 possibly more and I failed with a 69! I was beyond devastated! I'm sorry that you have gone through it 3 times! I do not want that for myself! I recently started doing Pocket Prep for my next test in June. If I did not check out Contempo's prior to my test in April I don't think I would have gotten very far on my test! Reach out to me if you want!!

[@AniruddhaKale-ys2bq]

@@nicolestraka8875 your stories give lessons to us …. We are freshers …. Glad to learn from another’s mistakes….. hope you will excel … god bless you … love you from india 🇮🇳

[@Ahamedhussain-lb7bv]

Does anybody helps me to clear my doubts about starting to prepare for exam i don't know anything about this want guidance

[@destinyechandie]

Hey I have a question I’m with aapc but the only thing I purchased was the study guide book the exam and the practice questions online what else do you recommend me to get ??

[@ContempoCoding]

If you're self-studying you can watch my video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmPLZ2qworGtotE

[@angieherron5305]

Can I use you for a referral on project resume? It lists your name as one of the referral sources!

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, please do!

[@angieherron5305]

@@ContempoCoding Thank you so much!!!❤️

[@sg3109]

02:30 💙

[@pammonaghan4303]

Victoria your videos are awesome, unfortunately, I did not pass the CPC exam the first time last week - I got a 69%! So frustrating. I tested 4 weeks after completing classes. Biggest downfall is E/M and coding guidelines. Can you suggest additional resources to study before I retake the exam? Thank you in advance for all of your helpful videos.

[@unappealingundesirable2826]

That is SO frustrating! Just a bounce here or there, and you would have had a 71-72 and passed. I take mine next week, and I'm more afraid of a 64-68 score, than a 50-55 score. Sounds like I need to really polish up on guidelines and EM questions. How many questions were there about modifiers?

[@unappealingundesirable2826]

Here is some comfort, that others have said: "If you score 60-69, that means that you know much more than you think." Keep plugging away: I know you'll get over that hump soon! Good luck!

[@cortneyellyn3233]

I have a question: I’m doing self-paced with the AAPC.. how many modules/exams would you recommend I complete a week?

[@rachie9406]

Great question! I did self paced as well. So a lot depends on your schedule and how busy you are, how fast you’re wanting to complete it. I worked full time and tried to one chapter every two weeks. Some chapters are easier than others and can be completed in a week. I made a little chart listing out all the chapters and highlighted when I completed one, sounds silly but it’s satisfying to “check something off” the list and can help you stay motivated and see how far you’re coming:)

[@cortneyellyn3233]

@@rachie9406 I’ve been trying to do one a week, but it’s been more like 1 1/2 weeks lol! Thank you so much ☺️

[@desireediggs9824]

How do I know what book to use during the exam?

[@ContempoCoding]

Do you mean how to know if you're using an ICD book or CPT or which books are you allowed to take to the exam?

[@nikhilalingampally7154]

Hii.this is the free classes. I have the cpc exam on june.please tell mee the tips. How to crack the cpc exam.

[@tothecore2253]

look for Hoang Nguyen on youtube. He teaches process of elimination for the CPC exam and his strategies will save you lots of time. He has over 20yrs experience in medical coding.

[@nikhilalingampally7154]

Okk sure tq. I what previous question paper for cpc.

[@arlenejalos]

Is medical coding okay for people who dont have medical education/background?

[@ContempoCoding]

Yes, but you will need to learn medical terminology and anatomy.

[@mantillarivera8715]

I have my books 2021 do I have to re buy them to take the exam

[@elaynebeaumont1272]

You can use the previous year’s books for the current year e.g. 2021 books on the 2022 exam. On January 2023 you would need to update

[@rachie9406]

I used my 2021 books for the 2022 and did just fine so you should be good to go:)

[@brian_b_music]

I’m taking my exam in 2 weeks. I was told I wouldn’t be able to sit for the exam with my 2021 books. So I had to get the 2022 ICD10, CPT, HCPCS books when I scheduled my exam.

[@RDI731]

Where are people taking classes?

[@ContempoCoding]

There's a lot of options -- aapc.com, your local tech schools or community colleges, and you can go to medicalcodingmasterclass.com to find out all my tips on programs and my personal recommendation. 😁

[@PinkLady7752]

Yes, that would be great if people posted where they took their classes.

[@danthewildbirdman]

*shows up to the test with a full rack of BBQ ribs*

[@prashanthpathepuram]

I failed 3 times can you please help me...I'm from india

[@ContempoCoding]

There are plenty of videos available on the channel to assist you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKelkq18oNKVY68