Which medical billing and coding certification is best

Reasons to Get Certification in Medical Billing and Coding

Arizona College recommends that our Medical Billing & Coding program graduates become certified, though it is not a requirement to become a medical biller and coder and work in the field. A medical billing and coding certification enhances your resume by demonstrating proven skills, knowledge, and achievement. It can set you apart and elevate your standing when applying for jobs. Graduates of Arizona College of Allied Health’s program are eligible to sit for several types of medical biller and coder certification exams offered by nationally-recognized certifying organizations.

What Does a Medical Biller and Coder Do to Earn Medical Coding Certifications?

There are several different medical coding and billing certifications available. Be sure to contact the relevant testing organization so that you can review all exam information and prerequisites. As you decide which medical billing or coding certification to pursue, consider the requirements for maintaining the credential (e.g. continuing education units) or obtaining recertification down the road. Some of the available certifications are listed below.

American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and AAPC Certifications:

•  CPB certification demonstrates knowledge of how claims are submitted in accordance with government and private payer policies.

• CPC certification demonstrates knowledge of how to correctly apply CPT®, HCPS Level II procedure and supply codes, and ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes for professional services performed by physicians and non-physician practitioners.

• COC certification demonstrates knowledge of how to correctly apply CPT®, HCPS Level II procedure and supply codes, and ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes for services offered in an outpatient health facility, such as a hospital or ambulatory surgical center. It is the only healthcare industry coding credential that is standalone for outpatient services.

• CIC certification demonstrates knowledge of how to correctly apply ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes and ICD-10-PCS procedure codes for services offered in an inpatient health facility, such as a hospital. It is the only healthcare industry coding credential that is standalone for inpatient services.

CRC certification demonstrates knowledge of how to correctly apply ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes that are used in risk adjustment payment models in any health facility, including hospitals, physician offices, and ambulatory surgical centers.

American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and AHIMA Coder Certifications:

CCA certification demonstrates coding proficiency in both hospital and physician practice settings.

CCS certification demonstrates similar skill competency to the CCA certification, but with more emphasis on skills required for the hospital setting.

CCS-P certification is a credential for coding practitioners who work to handle coding procedures in physician-based environments.

American Medical Billing Association (AMBA) and AMBA Certification Exam:

Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS): CMRS certification demonstrates commitment to providing professional and ethical medical billing services that meet the highest possible industry standards.

Pre-Certification Training for Medical Billing and Coding Programs Near Me

Arizona College provides you with the education and experience needed to pursue coding and billing certification. Fill out a request for information form today to connect with our admissions team and learn more about our Medical Billing & Coding training program.

What You Should Know About This Degree

There are many occupations similar to a medical coder, such as patient account representative, medical transcriptionist, and medical office front desk receptionist. Before committing, make sure the program aligns with the career you wish to pursue.

With a medical coding certificate, you will be qualified for a variety of roles, including benefits coordinator, documentation specialist, and medical biller. These jobs are available in many settings, including city hospitals, rural clinics, physician offices, and insurance companies.

There are two main organizations that grant certifications for medical coding: the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). AAPC offers the CPC (Certified Professional Coder), COC (Certified Outpatient Coder), CIC (Certified Inpatient Coder), and CRC (Certified Risk Adjustment Coder) certificates. AHIMA offers the CCA (Certified Coding Associate), CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), and CCS-P (Certified Coding Specialist — Physician-based) certificates.

The programs covered in this guide will help you prepare for these exams and start your medical coding career.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching medical coding certificate programs:

• Am I eligible for this program? Medical coding certificate programs tend to require minimal qualifications. You should be eligible as long as you graduated high school with a 2.0 GPA.
• What tests are required for this degree? There are a variety of certification tests available for medical coding. The most popular is the AHIMA’s CCA exam.

During your research, take note of application deadlines and what kind of materials you need to submit. You can find this information by visiting the school’s website or contacting their admission department.

You will need to account for financial aid deadlines as well. In addition to financial resources offered by the school, we recommend you look for funding from sources such as outside scholarships and tuition benefits from your employer.

Which certification is best for medical coding?

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