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As if studying for medical coding certification wasn’t tough enough, a coder who passes not only faces the job market – which, although favorable for coders, is still in a bit of a dip – but also faces the requirements to maintain certification. Depending on how many certifications a coder possesses, he or she is required to complete a certain amount of continued education units (CEUs) every two years to stay certified.Here’s a quick idea of the CEU requirements per the AAPC:
- One certification = 36 CEUs every two years
- Two certifications = 48 CEUs every two years
- Three certifications = 60 CEUs every two years
- Four certifications = 72 CEUs every two years
- Five certifications or more = 80 CEUs every two years
(Below is a link to the AAPC’s official website and its page addressing approved vendors. This page features a tool that allows the user to browse approved CEU vendors or search a vendor or event to see if it is currently approved.)
http://www.aapc.com/medical-coding-education/vendors/index.aspx
Any conferences, workshops, or webinars hosted by the AAPC (naturally) approved means of earning CEUs. Anything else, for the sake of the coder, should be verified as approved. Visiting the above link is one method, and another is consulting and networking with fellow coders and addressing vendors directly for proof of AAPC approval.
For the anxious coder, a quick browse through the approved list online will show that there are countless numbers of activities and vendors he or she can approach for CEUs. After all, it shouldn’t be a limiting burden but a boundless opportunity!
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Make sure to take a CPC certification practice exam before taking the real test. Practice tests will help you pass on your first try.
Click here to see the practice exams or to view the additional CPC exam study guides click here.
Click here for information on getting medical coding training, degrees, and/or certificates.
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