HOW DO I STUDY FOR THE CPC EXAM?
Question: I completed my medical and billing program about a year ago. I never ended up taking my test to be certified because I ended up getting a job with the doctors office I had done my internship with as a receptionist. I really want to pursue a career in billing and coding, but I am not sure how to set up my test to be certified or where to even start when it comes to studying for it. If someone could please email me back I would really appreciate it.
Don’t despair — many current coding and billing professionals have gone through your exact experience. I recommend utilizing the AAPC’s website to locate a chapter in your area to contact and gain CPC exam site information and date. Click here to access the link to that area on their website.
There are many areas of study that you must have a solid understanding of in order to successfully pass the CPC. It is important not to get overwhelmed once you open the test booklet — just remember to focus on coding conventions and guidelines and don’t get sidetracked in the minutia.
The following list is a mini breakdown of the areas of study you should ensure you have a thorough understanding of prior to sitting for the exam:
- Medical terminology: Prefixes/suffixes used for naming medical conditions/procedures
- HCPCS: Alphanumeric designated codes that identify supplies/drugs/temporary codes
- Modifiers: Two-digit suffix appended to the end of a code to indicate additional services/providers/statuses
- ICD-9-CM: Diagnosis code reporting for physician and outpatient, coding conventions and guidelines for reporting of illnesses/conditions/accidents/injuries, and more
- E&M (Evaluation and Management Visit Codes): Know what visit codes are used in each outpatient or inpatient setting.
- Anesthesia Section: Understand the types of anesthesia — general/regional/local anesthesia/conscious sedation.
- Radiology Section: X-rays/diagnostic imaging/MRI/PET scan/ ultrasound/nuclear medicine
- Path & Lab Section: Testing and identification of disease/infections/etiology
- Medicine Section: Covers various procedures for all other medical specialties
Body Systems:
- Integumentary System
- Musculoskeletal System
- Respiratory System
- Cardiovascular System
- Digestive System
- Urinary System
- Reproductive System
- Endocrine/Nervous System
- Eye/Ear System
The CPC Exam
- 150 multiple choice questions (proctored)
- 5 hours and 40 minutes to finish the exam
- One free retake
- $325 ($260 AAPC Students)
- Open code book (manuals)
The CPC examination consists of questions regarding the correct application of CPT®, HCPCS Level II procedure and supply codes and ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes used for billing professional medical services to insurance companies. Examinees must also demonstrate knowledge on proper modifier use, coding guidelines and regulatory rules.
The CPC exam thoroughly covers:
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