ABOUT:

Earning the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS^®) credential validates a healthcare professional’s expertise in medical coding. This certification signifies not only mastery of coding skills, but also a strong commitment to data quality and accuracy. It’s particularly valuable for those experienced in coding inpatient and outpatient records. A CCS^® professional is knowledgeable in medical terminology, disease processes, and pharmacology, ensuring accurate coding that translates into proper reimbursement for hospitals and medical providers. However, the CCS^® exam is designed for those with advanced coding proficiency, not entry-level skills.

CERTIFICATION BODY: AHIMA^® – American Health Information Management Association

LEARNING OBJECTIVE:

• Analyzes medical records: Reviews patient charts to identify diagnoses and procedures.
• Assigns medical codes: Uses their expertise in ICD-10-CM (diagnoses) and CPT (procedures) coding systems to assign accurate numeric codes.
• Medical knowledge essential: Requires a strong foundation in medical terminology, disease processes, and pharmacology for accurate coding.

EXAM INFORMATION:

• Question Types:
  • Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): 97 total (79 scored, 18 pre-test)
  • Medical Scenarios: 8 scenarios (6 scored, 2 pre-test) with up to 3 questions each requiring code selection.
• Exam Duration: 4 hours
• Pre-test Items: These are not scored and are used for statistical purposes.
• Additional Notes:
• The total number of scored questions can vary slightly depending on the specific exam version.
• It is recommended to verify this information with the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA^®) for any updates.

RE CERTIFICATION:

• Frequency: Every two years
• CEUs Required: 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)