Which Medical Coding & Billing Certification Exam Should You Take: CBCS or CPC?

Overview

• Medical billing and coding certifications are necessary for most jobs in the field.
• Popular certifications include Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), Certified Professional Coder (CPC), and Certified Coding Associate (CCA).
• No one certification is deemed the best; choice depends on career goals and qualifications.

Certifications Overview

1. Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)

• Provider: National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
• Focus: Broad, foundational skills in medical coding for various medical settings.
• Exam: 100 scored questions, 3 hours, offered remotely or at testing centers.
• Requirements:
  • Must be 18 and have a high school diploma.
  • Completion of a medical billing and coding program or 1 year of supervised work experience.
• Ideal for: New entrants wanting foundational coding skills.

2. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

• Provider: American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
• Focus: Outpatient coding, including diagnoses and procedures.
• Exam: 100 multiple choice questions, 4 hours, offered online or at testing centers.
• Requirements:
  • Must be 18 and have a high school diploma.
  • Active AAPC membership recommended.
  • Relevant education or work experience recommended.
• Ideal for: Those seeking membership in AAPC and further education opportunities.

3. Certified Coding Associate (CCA)

• Provider: American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
• Focus: Coding across various medical settings.
• Exam: 90-115 questions, timed.
• Requirements:
  • High school diploma.
  • Experience or approved training course recommended but not required.
• Ideal for: Entry-level coders without extensive training.

Comparison and Considerations

• Employer Preferences: No strong preference for one certification over another.
• Understanding similarities and differences can aid decision making.
• Costs and experience requirements vary.

Career Advancement

• After CPC certification:
  • Consider advanced certifications like Certified Professional Biller (CPB).
  • Specialize in specific areas like inpatient or outpatient coding.

Salary Insights

• Average salary for certified specialists: $45,018.
• Higher earnings potential in specialties like radiology, oncology, and emergency coding.

Educational Pathways

• Most certifications recommend formal training.
• Online programs, like Penn Foster’s, prepare students for CBCS, CPC, and CCA exams.

Conclusion

Choosing the right certification depends on personal career goals and existing qualifications. Certifications offer a pathway to job advancement and potentially higher salaries in the medical billing and coding field.