Top 10 Medical Coding Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for medical coding specialists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of proficiency and knowledge that employers look for. Certified coders have been tested and evaluated on their knowledge of the specific coding system, which is necessary to accurately code patient records. Employers want to hire coders who are up-to-date on the latest coding practices, so having a certification shows that an individual has the necessary skill set to do the job well. Additionally, certified coders often receive higher salaries than non-certified coders since they have proven their technical capabilities.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Medical Coding Specialists and explain how they can enhance and advance a Medical Coding Specialist's career.

What are Medical Coding Specialist Certifications?

Medical coding specialist certification is a type of credential that demonstrates proficiency in the field of medical coding. Medical coders are responsible for assigning codes to patient records, which provide information about diagnosis, procedures, and treatments. These codes are used by insurance companies and other healthcare organizations to process claims, reimburse providers, and manage data.

Having a medical coding specialist certification can be beneficial for those seeking employment in the field, as employers often prefer candidates with credentials. Such certifications may also help one gain access to higher-paying positions and more professional opportunities. Additionally, having a certification can demonstrate one’s commitment to staying up to date on the latest coding regulations and trends.

Certification programs typically require applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, disease processes, ICD-10 diagnosis codes, CPT procedure codes, HCPCS Level II procedure codes, modifiers, compliance guidelines and regulations related to health insurance reimbursement. Once certified, individuals must renew their certification periodically by taking continuing education courses or re-taking the exam.

Pro Tip: If you are seeking a medical coding specialist certification, make sure to research the credentials of the certifying organization. Check for accreditation, endorsements or recognition from professional organizations in the field of medical coding. This will ensure that your certification is valid and respected by employers.

Related: What does a Medical Coding Specialist do?

Top 10 Medical Coding Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Medical Coding Specialists today.

1. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is a credential offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is a certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in medical coding. Medical coders use specialized software to assign codes to medical procedures and services, which are used for billing and reimbursement purposes.

The CPC exam typically takes 4-5 hours to complete, depending on the number of questions asked. To become certified, applicants must pass a proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, coding guidelines and regulations, reimbursement methodologies, and healthcare compliance laws.

To be eligible for the CPC exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional coding experience or complete an approved coding program. Applicants must also submit proof of their education and/or experience before they can register for the exam.

The cost of the CPC exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $400-$500 USD. The fee includes access to study materials as well as the actual examination.

2. Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)

Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) is a certification offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in coding and classification of diagnoses and procedures in the health care setting. The CCS credential is considered the gold standard for coding professionals, as it provides employers with assurance that an individual has been properly trained and tested on their knowledge of medical coding.

In order to become a Certified Coding Specialist, one must first complete an accredited program in health information technology or related field. Upon completion of the program, applicants must then pass an examination administered by AHIMA. This exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, ICD-10-CM/PCS coding principles, and reimbursement methodologies.

The length of time required to obtain the CCS credential varies depending on the individual’s background experience and educational level. Generally speaking, it takes at least two years of full-time study to complete the necessary coursework for eligibility.

The cost of obtaining the CCS credential depends on several factors including whether or not you are already a member of AHIMA, if you need to take continuing education courses prior to taking the exam, and if you need to purchase any study materials or other resources. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for all associated fees.

Once you have passed the exam and obtained your certification, you will be eligible for higher pay and more job opportunities in medical coding positions. Additionally, many employers prefer candidates who hold this certification due to its high standards of excellence and quality assurance.

3. Certified Coding Associate (CCA)

Certified Coding Associate (CCA) is a certification offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is an entry-level credential for individuals who are interested in working in the medical coding field. The CCA certification validates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of coding principles and practices, as well as their ability to accurately assign codes to diagnoses and procedures.

The CCA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least one year of on-the-job experience in coding or completion of a formal education program in health information management.

To get certified, applicants must register with AHIMA and pay a $199 fee. Once registered, they can take the online practice test to prepare for the actual exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CCA certificate from AHIMA.

The cost to become certified is $199 plus any additional fees associated with taking the practice test or registering for the actual exam.

4. American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is a professional association for health information management (HIM) professionals. AHIMA offers certification for HIM professionals who have demonstrated their competency in the field of health information management and technology. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of health data analysis, clinical coding, privacy and security, health information system design and implementation, and more.

AHIMA offers three levels of certification: Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA), and Certified Coding Specialist (CCS). To become certified at any level requires passing an exam that covers topics related to the field of HIM.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the AHIMA certification exams. Preparation includes completing a formal education program or self-study courses, taking practice exams, attending review sessions or workshops, and studying for the exam.

To get certified by AHIMA you must first meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a high school diploma or equivalent degree. Once you meet these requirements you can register for an exam through AHIMA’s website. You will need to pay a fee to take the exam which varies depending on the type of exam you are taking; however, it generally ranges from $200-$400.

Once you pass your exam you will receive your official AHIMA certification credential which is valid for two years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires continuing education credits that can be earned through professional development activities such as attending conferences or webinars or taking online courses.

5. Certified Outpatient Coder (COC)

Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) is a certification program offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in coding outpatient services and procedures. The COC credential is designed to ensure that coders are proficient in the use of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.

The COC certification requires a minimum of two years of professional coding experience in an outpatient setting. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by AAPC. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, disease processes, pharmacology, reimbursement methodologies, and coding guidelines.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of AAPC. For members, the cost is $399; for non-members it is $499. Once you have passed the exam and obtained your COC credential, there is no annual fee associated with maintaining your certification.

In summary, Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) is a certification program offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It requires a minimum of two years of professional coding experience in an outpatient setting and passing an exam administered by AAPC which costs $399 for members or $499 for non-members. Once you have obtained your COC credential there is no annual fee associated with maintaining your certification.

6. American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certification

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in medical coding. It is the most widely recognized and respected certification for medical coders in the United States. The AAPC credential is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of medical coding principles, guidelines, and regulations.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the AAPC certification exam. This preparation time includes studying for the exam, attending relevant courses or seminars, and taking practice exams. To become certified, individuals must pass the AAPC exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get started on your path to becoming certified by the AAPC, you will need to register for an account on their website and pay the applicable fee. The cost of registration varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the AAPC. For members, registration costs $299; for non-members it costs $399. After registering, you will be able to access study materials such as practice exams and course notes as well as other resources to help you prepare for the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official AAPC certification which is valid for two years from the date of issue. You can renew your certification every two years by passing an online recertification exam or completing continuing education credits (CEUs).

7. ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer Certification

ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer Certification is a certification program offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to help healthcare professionals become certified in teaching and training others on the ICD-10-CM/PCS coding system.

The program consists of two courses: ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding Fundamentals and ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding Applications. The courses are offered online and take approximately 10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion, participants will be awarded an AHIMA ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer Certificate.

To get certified as an AHIMA ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer, individuals must first complete both courses with a passing grade of 80% or higher. Once completed, they must submit an application to AHIMA for review and approval.

The cost of the program varies depending on the type of membership you have with AHIMA. For nonmembers, the cost is $399 for both courses; for members, it is $299 for both courses.

8. Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC)

Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC) is a professional certification offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in risk adjustment coding through a comprehensive examination. The CRC credential is one of the most sought-after credentials for reimbursement professionals working in healthcare organizations.

It typically takes about four months to prepare for and pass the CRC exam. During this time, candidates should study and review relevant materials such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM/PCS coding guidelines, and risk adjustment coding principles. Additionally, they should practice coding scenarios using official AAPC practice exams.

To become certified as a CRC, candidates must first register with AAPC and pay an exam fee of $399 USD. Candidates must also meet certain eligibility requirements including being 18 years old or older, having at least two years of experience in medical coding or related field, and passing an online ethics course. Once all requirements are met, candidates can then schedule their exam date with AAPC.

Once the exam has been successfully completed, candidates will receive their official CRC certificate from AAPC within 4–6 weeks after passing the exam. This certificate serves as verification that the individual has achieved a high level of expertise in risk adjustment coding and can be used to demonstrate professional competency when applying for jobs or promotions within the healthcare industry.

9. Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC)

Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) is a professional certification offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to accurately code inpatient diagnoses and procedures.

To become a Certified Inpatient Coder, you must meet certain requirements:

• Have an Associate’s degree or higher in health information management or a related field, or equivalent work experience
• Pass the Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) exam
• Be a member of AHIMA
• Have three years of coding experience for inpatient services within the last five years.

The Certified Inpatient Coder exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as ICD-10-CM/PCS codes, official coding guidelines, reimbursement methodologies, legal and ethical considerations, and quality assurance. The cost of the exam is $300 for AHIMA members and $400 for non-members.

10. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Certification

Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Certification is a certification program that provides specialized training in medical billing and coding. It is designed to prepare individuals for a career in the medical billing and coding field. The certification is offered by various organizations, including the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

The certification process typically takes between six months to two years to complete, depending on the organization offering it. To get certified, individuals must first pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, coding systems, and reimbursement procedures. After passing the exam, they must then complete an approved course of study that includes both classroom instruction and practical experience in a clinical setting.

The cost of certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 or more for the entire program. Additionally, there may be additional fees for books or other materials required for the coursework.

Overall, obtaining Medical Billing and Coding Specialist Certification can provide individuals with valuable skills needed to work in this field and help them stand out from other applicants when seeking employment opportunities.

Do You Really Need a Medical Coding Specialist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is yes. A medical coding specialist certificate is becoming an increasingly important credential for those who want to find success in the healthcare industry. The healthcare industry is complex and ever-evolving, so having a certification that demonstrates proficiency in medical coding can be very beneficial for anyone looking to get ahead.

A medical coding specialist certificate can provide a number of benefits, including increased job security and better pay. With the rise of technology, many medical organizations are now relying more heavily on digital systems and automated processes. This means that the ability to accurately code and maintain patient records is essential in order to keep up with the times. Having a certification can help demonstrate your capabilities and knowledge, which can give you a competitive edge when it comes time to apply for jobs or promotions.

In addition, having a medical coding specialist certificate can open up more job opportunities in the healthcare industry. Many employers are now requiring applicants to possess certifications in order to be considered for positions in their organization. By having a certificate, you may be able to access roles that would otherwise not be available without such credentials.

Finally, having a medical coding specialist certificate will also allow you to stay on top of changes in technology and regulations that affect the healthcare industry. As new technologies emerge and regulations evolve, it’s important for professionals in this field to be aware of these changes so they can remain compliant with all relevant laws and guidelines. A certification will ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and skillset required to stay on top of these changes as they occur over time.

Overall, there are numerous benefits associated with obtaining a medical coding specialist certificate. It’s an invaluable asset that can help set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions within the healthcare industry as well as providing you with an understanding of how technology and regulations are changing within this field. For these reasons, it’s definitely worth considering earning one if you’re looking for success in this sector!

Related: Medical Coding Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Medical Coding Specialist Certifications

Q1. What qualifications do I need to become a Medical Coding Specialist?

A1. To become a Medical Coding Specialist, you must have either an associate degree in medical coding or a certificate in medical coding from an accredited program.

Q2. How long does it take to complete the certification process?

A2. The certification process generally takes between two and four months to complete, depending on the program and the individual’s level of commitment.

Q3. Is there an exam required for certification?

A3. Yes, most certifying organizations require successful completion of an exam to earn certification as a Medical Coding Specialist.

Q4. What topics are covered on the exam?

A4. The topics on the exam vary based on the certifying organization, but typically include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, reimbursement methodologies, and coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT® codes.

Q5. Is recertification required after earning my initial certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying organizations require recertification every two years in order to maintain your credentialing status as a Medical Coding Specialist