The Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification, offered by AHIMA, stands as a prestigious credential for coding professionals seeking to validate their expertise in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This certification not only enhances career prospects but also signifies a commitment to excellence in healthcare coding. Explore the eligibility criteria, exam structure, and preparation resources essential for success.
Understanding the Certified Coding Specialist Certification
The Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification is a prestigious credential offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It is designed to validate the expertise of coding specialists in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This certification is particularly beneficial for experienced coders, Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs), Registered Health Information Administrators (RHIAs), Certified Professional Coders (CPCs), and Certified Outpatient Coders (COCs) who wish to specialize or expand their credentials in facility coding (source).
Eligibility and Exam Structure
To be eligible for the CCS exam, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria: completion of a coding training program covering essential medical subjects, two years of coding experience, possession of other AHIMA credentials, or a combination of education and experience deemed acceptable by AHIMA (source). The exam itself is divided into two main sections: multiple-choice questions covering coding knowledge, regulatory compliance, and revenue cycle, and medical scenarios requiring coding of actual inpatient and outpatient cases using ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT/HCPCS. The exam consists of approximately 115–140 questions and is conducted over four hours at Pearson VUE centers (source).
Preparation and Study Resources
AHIMA offers various resources for CCS exam preparation, including online courses and textbooks. These resources cover essential domains such as coding knowledge, documentation, provider queries, regulatory compliance, and information technologies. The textbooks include practice exams and questions, while the online course offers video lectures and pretests (source). Additionally, Mometrix provides a comprehensive online CCS prep course, which includes practice questions, video tutorials, and study lessons tailored to help candidates prepare effectively for the exam. This resource is designed to accommodate different learning styles and ensure thorough preparation (source).
Exam Registration and Costs
Registration for the CCS exam is available through AHIMA’s website, with costs approximately $399 for non-members and $299 for AHIMA members. The exam is administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers (source). Upon approval, candidates receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email from Pearson Vue, allowing them to schedule their exam within a 120-day window (source).
Exam Day Requirements and Scoring
On exam day, candidates must bring specific code books, including the ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and the AMA’s CPT Professional Edition. These books must be free of unauthorized notes and materials. Candidates are also required to present two forms of ID and undergo a security check before entering the testing room (source). The passing score for the CCS exam is a scaled score of 300. If a candidate does not pass, they must wait 90 days before retaking the exam, with the same application and fee requirements as the initial attempt (source).
Why You Should Learn More About Certified Coding Specialist Certification Today
The Certified Coding Specialist certification is a valuable asset for those looking to advance their careers in medical coding. It not only validates expertise but also opens doors to new opportunities in both inpatient and outpatient settings. With the growing demand for skilled coding professionals, obtaining a CCS certification can significantly enhance career prospects. By understanding the eligibility requirements, exam structure, and preparation resources, candidates can effectively prepare for and succeed in the CCS exam. This certification is a testament to a coder’s proficiency and dedication to maintaining high standards in the healthcare industry.