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In the medical coding and billing world there are tiers of certifications. All certifications are optional for professionals however the AAPC certification credentials are quickly becoming mandatory for almost all medical coders who wish to make a good living.It is widely known that medical coders make more money when they have years of on the job experience and also when they processes specialty training and CPC certification. The AAPC however certifies professional coders in various specialties in addition to the standard CPC credential.
The CPC-H credential is the Certified Professional Coder (Hospitals-Outpatient) whereas the regular CPC is for general physician practices. Both credentials require substantial knowledge of the CPT, ICD-9, and HCPCS Level II codes but the CPC-H credential builds upon the CPC credential testing the professional coders knowledge in hospital settings more substantially.
To get the CPC-H credential typically means you as a professional coder are worth more. You command a higher salary and you demonstrate experience in your field. For one it takes more knowledge to pass the CPC-H exam but also because you can’t even take the exam unless you have two years of experience as a CPC or a CPC-A (otherwise known as a CPC apprentice).
Other than the requirement to be a certified CPC for two years prior to CPC-H testing there isn’t any further requirements to take the exam. Just like the CPC exam you have to be a member of the AAPC and have to pay the exam fees to take the CPC-H exam.
Also similar to the CPC certification a coder who passes the CPC-H exam must continually remain a AAPC member and satisfy the continuing education units (CEU) to maintain CPC-H credentials.
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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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