You take the CPC exam in person at a local testing center. To locate an exam site for the CPC: Click Locate/Schedule an Exam. Select your state. Select an exam location and date. An overall score of 70% is a passing score on the CPC exam. Exam results are provided to you within 7-10 days following the exam date.
- Step 1 Prepare for the Exam. ...
- Step 2 Become an AAPC Member & Schedule Your CPC Exam. ...
- Step 3 Pass the CPC Exam. ...
- Step 4 Upgrade Your CPC-A (Apprentice) to CPC — Verifying Your Experience. ...
- Step 5 Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
How to successfully pass the CPC exam?
- Taking the Test. When you take the CPC exam, you’re allowed to bring in each of the code manuals (the ICD, CPT, and HCPCS manuals).
- Time Management. When you’re taking a test like the CPC exam, which is almost six hours long and consists of 150 questions, it’s a good idea to break things down ...
- Know Your Goals. ...
What's the best way to prepare for the CPC exam?
How to Prepare for the CPC Certification Exam
- Check Your Anatomy and Medical Knowledge. If you are taking CPC or CPC-H exams, you need an understanding of anatomy, physiology and medical terminology before you can understand how to ...
- Get Your Coding Skills up to Speed. ...
- Use CPC Study Guides and Practice Exams. ...
- Know How to Use Your Coding Books. ...
How many questions are asked on the CPC exam?
When you're taking a test like the CPC exam, which is almost six hours long and consists of 150 questions, it's a good idea to break things down to make them more manageable. Separate the questions into blocks of time, and work on one block of questions for a fixed amount of time before moving on to the next set.
How to prepare for the CPC certification exam?
- Become familiar with your manuals. You will be allowed to use AMA's CPT ® Professional Edition and your choice of ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II books during the exam. ...
- Know what to expect on the exam. ...
- Take a practice test. ...
Can you take the CPC test online?
You can also take the CPC exam in the comfort of your own home for convenience. Scheduling the exam is offered same day. There is no fee for rescheduling if it is done at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time. Taking the exam online is less expensive than the in person option.
How much does it cost to take the CPC exam?
CPC Exam Cost If you take the CPC exam online, the cost is $299 and you have one attempt at passing it. Take the exam in person at one of the assigned testing locations and the cost goes up to $399, but candidates have two attempts to earn a score of 70% or higher.
What do I need for my CPC exam?
Prep Your Medical Code Books The CPC exam is open book, and everything you need to know is in your CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code books. The more intimately you know your books, the kinder time will be to you on exam day.
How long does it take to get your CPC certification?
CPCs use diagnostic codes to submit bills to insurance companies for services a doctor has provided to a patient. These individuals also must have a minimum of two years of coding experience and complete a certain number of continuing education courses every two years.
Can you take CPC exam without going to school?
In answer to your question, you could potentially pass the exams this way, but the best way to pass these exams without obtaining a two- or four-year degree is to take the AAPC's or AHIMA's online or classroom setting preparation courses.
How many attempts are there for CPC exam?
Exam results are provided to you within 7-10 days following the exam date. If you do not pass, AAPC provides you with scores from your weakest areas to help you study for a second attempt. A free retake on the CPC is included with the price you paid for the first attempt.
How long is the CPC exam 2022?
CPC Certification exam was very lengthy. But, in 2022, the questions have been decreased and now only 100 Multiple choice questions (includes 10 cases) should be finished in 4 hours .
Is CPC test hard?
It's easy because you know the stuff, it's just a test at the end of the day. It's hard in that it's an almost 6 hour test so your mental endurance is being tested as well as your knowledge. Some sections are easy, like anesthesia and HCPCS. Medical terms it's luck of the draw.
What is the passing score for CPC exam?
a 70% orIn order to pass the CPC exam, you need to get a 70% or better on the test. Always keep that in mind when you're taking the test. The long, multi-part questions that might have you look up three, four, or five codes are worth the same as the general knowledge questions.
How do I study for CPC 2022?
Strategies for Dealing with QuestionsStart with the easy anatomy questions at the back of the test booklet and work your way forward section by section. ... Read the question before reading the long operative report associated with the question. ... Underline key words in the test booklet to help you when looking up the code.More items...
Is the CPC exam open book?
Remember the CPC exam this is an open book exam and all answers are available in the books. Those who appear for the CPC exam should know thoroughly on how to use ICD 10, CPT and HCPCS books.
What is the age limit for medical coding?
The person can join the medical coding course after 12th and he can choose to do the course after a regular degree or at the age of forty.
Is CPC exam tough?
Not hard to pass. You just have to be able to sit for 5 hours and study prior to taking. The key is reading the questions and making sure you pay attention to the key words. For example , when the question involves E&M you need to pay attention to the place of service and whether it is a new or established patient.
How many questions are on the CPC exam 2022?
100 MultipleCPC Certification exam was very lengthy. But, in 2022, the questions have been decreased and now only 100 Multiple choice questions (includes 10 cases) should be finished in 4 hours . Hence, to manage the time used in CPC exam, you have first practice on Sample CPC question papers.
How do I study for CPC 2022?
Strategies for Dealing with QuestionsStart with the easy anatomy questions at the back of the test booklet and work your way forward section by section. ... Read the question before reading the long operative report associated with the question. ... Underline key words in the test booklet to help you when looking up the code.More items...
Is the CPC exam open book?
Remember the CPC exam this is an open book exam and all answers are available in the books. Those who appear for the CPC exam should know thoroughly on how to use ICD 10, CPT and HCPCS books.
How do online CPC exams work?
Download this PDF.
How do I register for the CPC Exam?
You need only to purchase the test to register for the CPC exam. You may then log into your account to schedule your exam when you're ready to take...
What does a CPC do?
A certified professional coder reviews clinical documentation and translates medical procedures, diagnosis, supplies, and services into codes that...
What is the Apprentice status?
Unless you have two years of medical coding experience prior to taking the CPC exam, you will receive the CPC-A credential when you pass. The “A” i...
How much does a CPC make an hour?
CPC's make between $20 and $30 per hour, which varies by location, experience, and additional credentialing.
How much does the CPC exam cost?
Sitting for the CPC exam costs $399 ($325 AAPC Students). Additional expenses vary, depending on the coursework, books, and practice exams you sele...
How do I prepare for my CPC exam?
The first step to passing the CPC exam is - take the courses! And that includes the medical terminology and anatomy courses because this knowledge...
How long does it take to become a certified medical coder?
Most people complete the coursework and pass the exam in 6 to 12 months.
What medical coding certification is best?
AAPC's CPC certification is renowned globally by physicians, payers, and government agencies. There are other certifications, as well-all of which...
What score do I need to pass the CPC exam?
To pass the CPC exam, you need to achieve a passing rate of 70 percent or higher. That means you must answer at least 70 questions correctly.
Step 1 Prepare for the Exam
To prepare for the CPC exam, you can choose classroom training or our online CPC training. When choosing the online CPC course, you can further customize your training.
Prerequisite Courses for CPC Training
Because medical coders work with clinical documentation, they need to understand anatomy, pathophysiology, and medical terminology. These three courses — or the 3-in-1 course, Foundations in Medicine — are prerequisites for new CPC students.
Step 2 Become an AAPC Member & Schedule Your CPC Exam
If you haven’t become an AAPC member, you must do so prior to scheduling your CPC exam. Renewing AAPC members are also required to have a current membership to sit for a certification exam.
Step 3 Pass the CPC Exam
The CPC examination tests your ability to correctly apply CPT ®, HCPCS Level II procedure and supply codes, and ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes used to report professional medical services. You also must demonstrate knowledge of proper modifier use, coding guidelines, and regulatory rules.
Step 5 Maintain Certification Through Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
Medical codes and healthcare regulation changes rapidly, and it’s crucial for medical coders to stay on top of these changes. This requires continuing education.
How to prepare for CPC exam?
The surest way to prepare for the CPC exam is to train with AAPC by enrolling in the CPC ® Preparation Course. This program, designed by the creators of the CPC exam, will ensure you receive an effective and comprehensive education covering proper use of all medical code sets you'll encounter on the exam.
What is the CPC exam?
The CPC examination consists of questions regarding the correct application of CPT ®, HCPCS Level II procedure and supply codes, and ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes used for coding and billing professional medical services to insurance companies. Examinees must also demonstrate knowledge on proper modifier use, coding guidelines and regulatory rules.
What is a self-paced CPC exam?
This online self-paced exam review was designed to focus on both the common and most challenging coding concepts of the CPC exam. The review is divided up by domains covered on the exam, allowing students to focus on the areas where they find themselves lacking. The course provides valuable test prep such as demonstrating techniques for marking and using code books.
What is CPC certification?
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam is the conclusive step to attaining CPC certification —renowned throughout the world of healthcare as the gold standard for physician-based medical coding. By passing the CPC exam and earning the right to append the CPC acronym to your name, you become a healthcare business professional recognized ...
How many years of experience do you need to take the CPC exam?
Unless you have two years of medical coding experience prior to taking the CPC exam, you will receive the CPC-A credential when you pass. The “A” indicates apprenticeship status, which requires two years of experience to graduate from the designation.
How many questions are asked in the CPC exam?
Passing the CPC exam requires you to correctly answer a minimum of 105 questions from the series below. The exam questions, however, will not be identified or sorted by the series to which they pertain. The CPC test will rely on a level of understanding that enables you to identify the series.
What is the 10,000 series CPT exam?
The 10,000 Series CPT ® part of the exam will consists of ten questions related to surgical procedures performed on the integumentary system, which includes skin, subcutaneous, and accessory structures, as well as nails, pilonidal cysts, repairs, destruction, and breast.
How to take CPC exam?
What are the requirements for taking the online CPC® exam? You must meet the following requirements to take an online exam: 1 Your computer must pass the minimum system requirements 2 You will be required to use an external webcam that can be placed to show:#N#Your face#N#Your hands#N#Your keyboard#N#The area surrounding your keyboard (about 10 inches)
How long does it take to get your AAPC exam results?
Will I receive my exam results immediately? Exam results will be available within five business days of completing the second part of the exam. Results will show in the member area under My AAPC > Exams in the exam details.
What is the no show policy for online exams?
What is the no-show policy for online exams? If you do not show up to your scheduled exam OR you do not meet the requirements to take the exam, Examity will charge a $30 fee for each occurrence and your exam may not be rescheduled until paid.
How many books can I use for CPC?
What books can I use for the online CPC® exam? You will only be allowed three coding books on your desk (one of each type listed below). Online proctors will do a thorough review of your books before you begin the exam. It is highly recommended that you use current year books on your exam.
What are the requirements to take an online exam?
You must meet the following requirements to take an online exam: Your computer must pass the minimum system requirements. You will be required to use an external webcam that can be placed to show: Your face. Your hands. Your keyboard. The area surrounding your keyboard (about 10 inches)
Can you transfer a voucher to an online exam?
For members with open exam vouchers, the voucher can be transferred to online . Example 1: You make a new purchase for an online exam — you will get one online attempt. Example 2: You have already purchased two live exam vouchers or have unlimited vouchers — if you choose to convert to online, you will be in an exception group ...
Can you cheat on AAPC?
Important Note! Any member who violates our code of ethics by cheating will lose their credential (s) and will not have the opportunity to sit for any future AAPC exams.
What to expect when taking CPC exam?
When you’re taking the CPC exam, you’ll be asked to perform though you were coding at your regular coding job, so set up your manual in the way that makes the most sense for you. Also be aware that each manual has loads of helpful information beyond the codes.
How long does it take to get a CPC?
Most people take the exam only after they’ve been working in coding for a little while (to be certified, the CPC requires a passing score and two years of professional experience, or the educational equivalent). If you’ve amassed that experience, you should be relatively familiar with medical terminology and anatomy and physiology. Still, it’s a very good idea to brush up with this through flash cards or review courses.
How long is the CPC exam?
Time Management. When you’re taking a test like the CPC exam, which is almost six hours long and consists of 150 questions, it’s a good idea to break things down to make them more manageable.
What is a good idea to mark off in a CPT manual?
It’s a good idea to mark the important or frequently used sections of your code manuals. The CPT manual, for instance, comes with a number of tabs you can place in the book to mark certain important places. Use these to mark off where code sections begin (like the Surgery or Medicine sections in the CPT manual), and where to find certain appendices.
What to do if you're stuck on a question?
If you’re stuck on a question, don’t be afraid to skip it and come back to it later. Another good way of managing your goals and your time is to remember that your objective in the test is to pick the best available answer. This test is not an exact duplication of what you’ll see in everyday coding.
Is the CPC exam intimidating?
The CPC exam can be intimidating if you don’t have a plan going in. In this video, we’ll show you some general preparation tips and test-taking strategies that will set you on the path to success.
Do private companies have CPC exams?
A number of private companies have practice CPC exams, but the AAPC’s practice exams are probably your best bet. Don’t treat practice exams as formalities or wastes of time. Many practice exams can be easier than the actual exam, but you should still take them seriously.
In-Person CPC Exam FAQs
You will be given 4 hours to complete the exam and will be notified when 30 minutes of test time is remaining. If you finish your exam early, you may leave.
Online CPC Exam FAQs
Your computer must pass the minimum system requirements for the online CPC exam. You can test your computer in a few seconds any time prior to the exam.
How much does it cost to take the CPC exam?
You must be a member of AAPC to take the CPC exam. The CPC exam costs $399 and membership costs $170.
How many hours does it take to pass CPC?
The CPC exam is a 150 question exam—all multiple choice. You have 5 ½ hours to complete it. Open code books (manuals) with one free retake. Source: http://www.careerstep.com/blog/coding-and-billing/certified-professional-coder-cpc-exam-frequently-asked-questions
What is a 70% CPC score?
An overall score of 70% is a passing score on the CPC exam. Exam results are provided to you within 7-10 days following the exam date. Source: http://www.careerstep.com/blog/coding-and-billing/certified-professional-coder-cpc-exam-frequently-asked-questions
How much should you address in a test?
Finishing the test in the assigned time is essential. As an unpleasant rule, you should have addressed 50% of every last one of inquiries half of the way to the time when the test will be finished.
Do not arrive late for code choice?
Move rapidly, yet give careful consideration to essential words in the situations that change code choice. Do not arrive late for your exam. The simplest areas will be those in which you are most educated. You could begin the test in the middle segment or even in the last, whichever is the least demanding.
Is CPC exam hard?
To be a certified professional coder you must be well prepared for the exam and know your facts right. The CPC exam may seem hard, but it’s not that hard if you studied.
