To become a Certified Professional Coder (CPC), you will need to pass an exam that tests your knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and medical coding systems. The certification exam is administered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
The basic certification exams offered by the AAPC to become a Certified Professional Coder are:
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Exam: This exam tests the candidate’s proficiency in CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.
- Certified Professional Coder Apprentice (CPC-A) Exam: This is a limited certification for those who have completed an AAPC-approved coding program but have little or no work experience.
To prepare for these exams, you can take coding courses and workshops, review coding guidelines and manuals, and practice coding exercises. The AAPC also offers study materials and practice exams to help you prepare for the certification exams.Basic Certification exams to become Certified Professional Coder