Certification for Coding

What is the best coding certification to take? CPC or the CCS? Also, is the CCA a good certification to obtain or is it better to take the CPC? I just took the CPC and passed but was told that it is better to have the AHIMA cert. CCS. I am considering taking it as well. If I do, any ideas on the best study guides and ways to prepare for this test?

Certification for Coding

Historically, AAPC has been the most common credential for physician offices, and AHIMA for hospitals. Both have credentials for both locals, but what I see is that physician codes are CPCs and Hospital coders use AHIMA. Some ambitious and smart coders have both credentials, which must be a help in terms of credentials.

I think employers are happy to have either credential for their coders, with the above in mind. AAPC has become very professional under the new management, and is very large. Both organizations offer a lot to their members.

I'd be interested in what others think about this.

Certification for Coding

I agree with Betsy and would add that currently the CCA is recognized by only a limited number of employees. Therefore, I always recommend the CCS, CCS-P, or CPC over the CCA.

As to the choice of the CCS or the CCS-P or CPC, I suggest first of all considering what provider setting you wish to work in. If your interest is coding and billing in a hospital setting, your best choice would be the CCS. If your interest is coding and billing in a physician office/clinic setting, your best choice would be the CCS-P or the CPC. You may also consider checking with local providers or facilities to see what their preferences are as well.

As an FYI, the AHIMA does not require membership for certification or for keeping that certification; the AAPC does require membership to both earn and keep a certification from them. I always try to make others aware of this because membership can be expensive to maintain as all employers do not pay for membership in one or more professional associations.

My specialty is helping coders get certified so feel free to contact me further if you need personalized assistance. cmbenjamin@bellsouth.net

Coding cert.

Thanks you both for all the great information. I recently graduated from Heald College in CA with a certification in medical billing and coding but I am having problems finding a job. I got certified in billing (CMRS) through AMBA and CPC-A from the AAPC. I am just trying to decide what my next step should be to get my foot in the door to do coding. Thanks again!

Coding Certification

Either organization is fine, but I chose AHIMA based on their being in business the longest. I know there are some very good coders within the AAPC, so I would suggest researching both organizations to see which one would 'fit' better.