Discussion Post-Certification Options PDF

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This is a post I made regarding certification options for coders...

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There are numerous certifications you can obtain to expand your knowledge and job opportunities as a coder. To keep my post short, I chose two certifications, one from AHIMA and one from AAPC. From AHIMA, the Certified Coding Associate (CCA). The CCA shows the coder can work in both inpatient and outpatient settings. With the CCA credential, you can work in any type of facility. The only prerequisite is a high school diploma or GED. If you have a basic membership, the cost of the exam would be $199. With a premier membership, it costs $189. With no membership, it is $299. In order to stay certified, you’re required to obtain 20 continuing education units (CEUs) as well as two coding selfreviews. Both are to be done annually.

Through AAPC, the Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). This is the only credential through AAPC that is dedicated only to inpatient coding. It proves the holder has the knowledge and experience needed to abstract documentation and convert it into codes from ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS. To test as a non AAPC member, it would be $399 for two attempts. To test as a member, it’s $325 for two attempts. There is a bundle option available for $785. It includes: two exam attempts, study material and exam preparation courses. To remain certified, the holder must obtain 36 CEUs every two years and hold an AAPC membership (renewed yearly).

I plan to obtain either my CCS or CCA. Both are available through AHIMA and most companies prefer the coder to be certified through AHIMA.

References: AHIMA: CCA (2019) Retrieved from: http://www.ahima.org/certification/CCA

AAPC: Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC™) (2019) Retrieved from: https://www.aapc.com/certification/cic/...