Medical coding training

Pick your target credential first

Most beginners aim for the CPC (physician and outpatient) or AHIMA's CCA or CCS (with hospital coding). Choose a program built for that exam. Compare them on coding exams compared.

What a good program covers

• Medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and pathophysiology
• ICD-10-CM conventions and the Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting
• CPT® by section, including E/M, surgery, radiology, pathology and medicine, plus modifiers
• HCPCS Level II, and ICD-10-PCS if you are heading for hospital inpatient work
• Payment systems, compliance and HIPAA
• Many hours coding real, de-identified records

How long should it take?

There is no official minimum. Most people need several months of steady study and practice to absorb the code sets. Treat very short "become a coder in weeks" offers with caution. If you pass the CPC without experience you will hold CPC-A status. An AAPC-approved course of at least 80 contact hours can count toward removing it. See CPC-A.

Online or classroom?

Questions to ask any program

1. Which exam does it prepare me for?Is the curriculum approved or licensed by AAPC or AHIMA?
2. What does it really cost?Ask whether code books, membership and the exam fee are included.
3. Who teaches it?Look for credentialed instructors with real coding experience.
4. Can I see outcome data?Ask for pass rates and how they were calculated.
5. What happens after?Is there externship, practicum or job-search support?

Practise before the exam

Timed practice exams close the gap between knowing codes and finishing on time. See the CPC exam for format and preparation tips.