Difference Between CPC, CCS, and CCA Certifications
CPC, CCS, and CCA are three different types of
certifications in the field of medical coding. They represent different levels
of expertise and knowledge in medical coding and are awarded by different
organizations. Here are some details and examples of each certification:
Difference Between CPC, CCS, and CCA Certifications |
General Information About CPC, CCS, and CCA Examinations:
1. CPC (Certified Professional Coder):
The CPC certification is awarded by the American
Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and is designed to test a coder's knowledge
of medical coding and billing. CPCs are well-versed in CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS
Level II codes, and are typically employed by healthcare facilities or private
billing companies. The CPC certification is ideal for those looking to enter
the medical coding field as it is the most basic certification.
Example: A CPC-certified medical coder may be
responsible for reviewing medical records and assigning codes for diagnoses and
procedures, ensuring that they are accurate and complete. They may also be
responsible for communicating with insurance companies to ensure timely and
accurate payments.
2. CCS (Certified Coding Specialist):
The CCS certification is awarded by the American
Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and is designed to test a
coder's knowledge of complex medical coding issues. CCSs are typically employed
in hospitals or other healthcare facilities and have a deep understanding of
medical terminology, anatomy, and pharmacology.
Example: A CCS-certified medical coder may be
responsible for reviewing complex medical records and assigning codes for
diagnoses and procedures that require a deeper understanding of medical
terminology and anatomy. They may also be responsible for training and
supervising other coders.
3. CCA (Certified Coding Associate):
The CCA certification is also awarded by AHIMA and is
designed to test a coder's basic knowledge of medical coding and healthcare
regulations. CCAs are entry-level coders and may work in a variety of
healthcare settings, such as physician offices, clinics, and hospitals.
Example: A CCA-certified medical coder may be
responsible for reviewing medical records and assigning codes for basic
diagnoses and procedures. They may also be responsible for verifying insurance
coverage and communicating with patients regarding their bills.
CPC, CCS, and CCA are all certifications in the field
of medical coding, but they differ in terms of the level of expertise and
knowledge they represent. Here are some of the key difference between CPC,
CCS, and CCA certifications:
Key difference between CPC, CCS, and CCA certifications:
1. Certification body:
CPC is awarded by the American Academy of Professional
Coders (AAPC), while CCS and CCA are awarded by the American Health Information
Management Association (AHIMA).
2. Level of expertise:
CPC is the most basic certification, and it tests a
coder's knowledge of medical coding and billing. CCA is also an entry-level
certification that tests basic knowledge of medical coding and healthcare
regulations. CCS is the most advanced certification, and it tests a coder's
knowledge of complex medical coding issues.
3. Types of codes covered:
CPC covers CPT, ICD-10, and HCPCS Level II codes,
while CCS covers more complex coding systems like ICD-10-PCS and CPT-4. CCA
covers ICD-10-CM and CPT codes.
4. Employment settings:
CPCs are typically employed by healthcare facilities
or private billing companies, while CCSs are typically employed in hospitals or
other healthcare facilities. CCAs may work in a variety of healthcare settings,
such as physician offices, clinics, and hospitals.
5. Responsibilities:
CPCs may be responsible for reviewing medical records
and assigning codes for diagnoses and procedures, ensuring that they are
accurate and complete. CCSs may review complex medical records and assign codes
for diagnoses and procedures that require a deeper understanding of medical
terminology and anatomy. CCAs may review medical records and assign codes for
basic diagnoses and procedures, verify insurance coverage, and communicate with
patients regarding their bills.
In summary, CPC, CCS, and CCA certifications represent
different levels of expertise in medical coding, and they are awarded by
different organizations. CPC is the most basic certification, while CCS is the
most advanced. The certifications differ in terms of the types of codes
covered, employment settings, and responsibilities of those who hold them.
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