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What is AAPC CPC exam

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Daniel Martin

Updated on April 11, 2026

The CPC exam is a test of medical coding proficiency consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions that assess 17 areas of knowledge. … During the test, you will reference approved coding books — the AMA’s CPT® Professional Edition, as well as your choice of ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II code manuals.

What is AAPC CPC certification?

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential is the most recognized medical coding certification in the healthcare industry. … A sound knowledge of medical coding guidelines and regulations. Mastery of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology necessary to code diagnosis and services correctly.

What is the difference between AAPC and CPC?

The CPC curriculum and examination reflect AAPC members’ roles, but fully addresses diagnostic coding. By virtue of AAPC’s larger membership (167,000 as of this writing compared to AHIMA’s 100,000 plus) there are more CPCs in the field than CCSs.

What is the CPC exam for?

The CPC (Certified Professional Coder) Exam is a test to get certified in Medical Coding by the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders). AAPC is an educational board that conducts all types of health care certifications, including exams for CPC certifications in the US, as well as many other countries.

Is CPC exam hard to pass?

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 long is AAPC training?

The course is designed to be completed in 4 months, however AAPC allows for an additional 2 months grace period, giving you a full 6 months access from date of purchase. Apart from reading & study time, this course includes approximately 80 clock hours of contact work. The course covers CPT, HCPCS and ICD-10-CM coding.

How long is the AAPC CPC exam?

CPC Exam Basics The CPC exam is open book. You’ll be given 5 hours and 40 minutes to complete 150 multiple-choice questions.

How can I pass the CPC exam?

  1. Know Your Prerequisite Material. The CPC Exam tests medical terminology and anatomy, so if you have not yet taken these courses, you will need to in order to pass the exam. …
  2. Enroll in a Prep Program. …
  3. Take a Review Class. …
  4. Purchase the AAPC’s Study Guide. …
  5. Complete Practice Exams.

How much do CPC make?

The average CPC salary in the United States is $55,906 as of November 29, 2021, but the range typically falls between $48,506 and $65,606. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

What is CPC exam fees?

CPC: Certified Professional Coder Membership: $170-Medesun Students can get the Exam and Membership at a discounted price-Get almost 20-40% Discount. Our training program provides the following in addition to the Medical Coding and Billing Training.

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Which is harder CCS or CPC?

Exam difficulty Based on your understanding of medical terminology, insurance reimbursement procedures and diagnostic coding, the CCS examination may be more challenging than the CPC test. In addition, AHIMA allows candidates to take the CCS exam only one time.

Which medical coding certificate is best?

For those who want to jump start or grow their career in medical coding at inpatient facilities, the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification program is the most popular choice and is most comparable to the CPC.

What comes after CPC certification?

Become a certified medical coder by sitting for the CPC exam and earning your Certified Professional Coder credential, the most recognized medical coding certification in the healthcare industry. …

Can I take the CPC exam online?

CPC Exam is Now Available to Take Online On the day of each exam session, you will connect with your proctor through Examity (accessible through Blackboard) to complete the authentication and take your exam. … Best option for 2021 testing is online.

How much does it cost to join AAPC?

Membership VolumeCorporate Rate (*per member)6-10 Members$16511-25 Members$16026-50 Members$15551+ MembersContact us at +91 44 4503 0055

Do you have to type fast to be a medical coder?

To process codes clearly and effectively, you must be able to read fairly quickly, and you must have good retention. You also need to enter data accurately with a keyboard. (In billing and coding, accuracy takes preference over speed.)

How much does the AAPC exam cost?

All AAPC exams are $380 with one free retake.

Is AAPC a good certification?

We chose AAPC’s Certified Professional Coder and Certified Professional Biller courses as best overall because they not only help students prepare for an entry-level career in medical coding and billing, but also double a student’s likelihood of passing the AAPC’s Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified …

Does AAPC offer fafsa?

Financial aid is available to AAPC members struggling to maintain their membership and/or certification when they are experiencing times of financial difficulty due to an unexpected hardship. All awards are based on availability of funds and applicant’s ability to demonstrate reasonable hardship.

Can you get a student loan for AAPC?

As we are not a traditional school or university, AAPC is not accredited by the Department of Education, and therefore not eligible to participate in federally funded financial aid or grant programs.

What is the highest paying coding Certification?

The highest paying coding certification is Certified Professional Coder. As a Certified Professional Coder professional, you are likely to earn an average annual salary of $54,051.

Do medical coders work from home?

Medical billing and coding careers offer the following benefits: You can work from home. Many healthcare providers outsource their work, so you do not need to work from a specific office location. Many billers and coders are independent contractors.

What does AAPC stand for in medical coding?

The AAPC, also known as the American Academy of Professional Coders, is a professional association for people working in billing and coding for healthcare in the United States.

Who is eligible for CPC exam?

Eligibility: Any Graduate/Post Graduate Degree/Diploma in Pharmacy, Healthcare, Medicine, Dentistry, Biology, Zoology, Chemistry, Microbiology or even Biochemistry are eligible to apply for this course.

How long does it take to get results from AAPC?

Per AAPC: “Exam results are normally released within 7 to 10 business days after the exam has taken place.

What books do you need for the CPC exam?

  • AAPC ICD-10-CM Code Book (2020)
  • AMA CPT Professional (2020)
  • AAPC HCPCS Level II Expert (2020)

Is CPC Recognised in Canada?

Career Professionals of Canada (CPC) is setting the Canadian standard for excellence in our field. CPC’s Certification Program validates and recognizes the expertise of Canadian career practitioners in five competency areas — career, work-life, interview, employment, and résumé strategy.

Is CPC or CIC better?

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is the gold standard for medical coding in a physician office setting. … The Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) is the only standalone inpatient coding certification in the healthcare industry.

How do you become a certified coder?

To become a certified medical coder, you must complete a high school diploma or GED certificate. You must also complete an associate degree in medical coding and then pass the national certification exam. This is to ensure you have all the skills and knowledge necessary to accurately interpret patient records.

Which is better CCA or CCS?

How does the CCA compare to the CCS and CCS-P? The CCA should be viewed as the starting point for an individual entering a new career as a coder. The CCS and/or CCS-P exams demonstrate the mastery level skills that the CCA would strive for to advance his or her career.

Is a medical coding certificate worth it?

Absolutely. With the right training and a little hard work, you can conquer the challenges of medical coding and billing and land a great job at a critical time in the field. Becoming a medical coder is worth the effort it takes when you enroll in the right program.