What does CPC stand for in coding?
Asked by: Brooks Murray | Last update: July 7, 2025Score: 4.8/5 (22 votes)
How long does it take to become a CPC coder?
How Long Does it Take to Get a CPC Certification. Medical coding training will give you the foundation to pass the exam, and this can take anywhere from a couple of months to a year or longer. The key is finding a training program that not only explains the material but prepares you for the exam–and a career.
Is the CPC exam hard to pass?
There's no doubt about it, the CPC® exam is tough. A variety of sources show that ONLY about 50% of coders receive the necessary 70% score to pass the CPC® Exam on the first try. That means that half of all test-takers need a second shot at passing. Who wants to take this test more than once?
What is CPC in coding?
CPC stands for Certified Professional Coder. This medical coding certification is offered through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and serves to provide a sort of evidence that you have the knowledge and skills needed to work as a professional coder.
What is the abbreviation for CPC code?
What are Customs Procedure Codes (CPC)? Put simply, a CPC code (Customs Procedure Code) is your reason for import or export, expressed as either a seven digit number or a six digit number and one letter.
Medical Coding Certifications Explained: CPC, CCS, and More
How much does a CPC exam cost?
To maintain your credential, you must maintain your AAPC annual membership, and earn 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years. The cost of the CPC exam is $399 for one attempt, or $499 for two exam attempts.
Is AAPC worth the money?
A recent AAPC salary survey found that, among medical coders, those certified in a specialty made nearly $10,000 more per year than medical coders who were not certified.
Can you take the CPC exam without going to school?
Yes, you can technically take the CPC exam without going to school. However, it is not recommended. The exam covers highly specific material, medical coding procedures, and codes. Without having studied medical coding, you may have a more difficult time passing the exam.
Can CPC coders work from home?
You can work from home. Unlike many other healthcare professions, working as a medical coder often comes with the option to work from home. Doing this job remotely helps you establish a greater work-life balance, helping improve your job satisfaction in the process.
Is the CPC exam open book?
The CPC exam is open book, and everything you need to know is in your CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code books. The more intimately you know your books, the kinder time will be to you on exam day.
How long is CPC school?
Self-paced: Average time to completion is 4 to 8 months. 6-month access to course materials with options for extensions.
What pays more, medical billing or coding?
In general, medical coders typically earn more than billers.
Can medical coding be self-taught?
Can You Become a Medical Coder Through Self-Study? The short answer is “yes.” However, if you're starting from scratch, you'll need to do your homework.
How to make 6 figures as a medical coder?
To get six-figure salary , you need to clear AHIMA CCS, CDIP and AAPC CPC Exam. Expert knowledge and skill in OP and IP Coding, Auditing are must. Management skills are added advantage-six sigma is greenbelt certification is better option.
What are the cons of being a medical coder?
- You'll Need Technical Training. ...
- Certification and Re-Certification. ...
- Computer Skills are a Must-Have. ...
- Advancement Requires Additional Certificates or Degrees. ...
- Requires a Great Degree of Accuracy. ...
- Learning New Codes and Regulations. ...
- High Competition for Jobs in Some Areas.
What is the most recognized medical coding certification?
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is the most popular medical billing and coding certification students pursue.
Why is AAPC not accredited?
The AAPC is not a college or university, and neither are all the other non-college coding schools you all are looking at, including ours. For this reason, medical coding schools aren't accredited. THESE types of schools need to be LICENSED by their states in order to teach coding programs to their students…
Which pays more, CPC or CCS?
CCS certification often provides higher earning potential due to its specialization in inpatient coding. CPC-certified professionals typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, whereas CCS-certified coders can command salaries ranging from $45,000 to $65,000.
Is it hard to pass the CPC?
The national average pass rate for the Transport Manager CPC qualification is around 40%. However, with targeted and thorough preparation, candidates can significantly improve their chances of success, transforming what initially appears daunting into an achievable goal.
How long does it take to become a CPC?
A minimum of two years of coding experience is required to earn the CPC designation. However, even if you don't yet have this experience, you may still be able to take the test. If you pass, your designation will be CPC-A, which stands for CPC apprentice.
How to get CPC code?
Instructing your freight forwarder. If you are unsure which code to apply provide a brief written statement on your customs declaration and shipment instruction, describing what you are transporting and why, and your freight forwarder will apply the correct code.
What kind of coding is CPC?
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential is the most recognized medical coding certification in the healthcare industry. Employers value individuals who demonstrate proficiency and commitment to excellence through professional certification.