How To Prepare for a Medical Coding Exam
Many medical facilities require medical coders to have specific qualifications to be hired. One qualification many use is certification through the American Health Information Management Association. This national organization offers certification through an exam that tests an applicant's knowledge and skills in the medical coding field. Those that pass receive certification, which indicates to employers the person is capable of performing medical coding. The best way to ensure certification is received is to prepare for a medical coding exam.
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Instructions
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Learn what the exam covers. The Certified Coding Associate exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, which must be answered during an allotted two-hour period. AHIMA produces a resource guide for people preparing to take the medical coding exam. Visit the association's website to read the guide and gain a better understanding of what the exam covers. Find out exactly what topics are covered and how many multiple-choice questions are listed under each topic.
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Register for the exam. Submit an application to take the certification exam by completing an online or paper form available through the AHIMA website. The organization will review your application and determine if you qualify to take the exam. Set up a testing date once you receive an authorization to test letter from AHIMA after your application is approved.
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Use study guides. The CPC Coding Exam Review and the Medical Coding Specialist's Exam Review are just two of the many study guides available to help you prepare for the medical coding exam. Check out your local library or visit a bookstore online or in person to find the study guide right for you.
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Enroll in a review course. Check with local community colleges and technical schools offering a medical coding program to learn whether they offer a review course for the certification exam. Some private organizations also offer coding exam review online.
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Assemble needed supplies for the exam. Purchase the American Medical Association CPT Codebook in advance and bring it with you the day of the exam. It is the one reference book you are allowed to use during the exam to assist you in answering questions. Also bring two forms of identification with you to be admitted to the test.
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