In the world of medical coding, certifications are essential to ensure a successful career. For many, professional organizations like AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) and coding platforms like Coding Clarified provide a variety of learning and certification resources. However, one of the biggest concerns for aspiring coders is the cost of training and certification. Fortunately, there are financial aid options available, but the offerings and financial assistance programs vary between these organizations. In this blog, we’ll explore whether AAPC accepts financial aid, compare it with Coding Clarified training, and outline available purchase options and scholarships.
AAPC: Financial Aid and Payment Options
AAPC is one of the leading organizations in the field of medical coding and provides a variety of certification options, such as CPC (Certified Professional Coder), CRC (Certified Risk Adjustment Coder), and more.
Does AAPC Accept Financial Aid?
AAPC does not directly offer traditional financial aid in the form of federal student loans or grants. However, it does provide a range of payment options and scholarship opportunities for those who need financial assistance:
Payment Plans: AAPC offers flexible payment plans for students purchasing training materials or certification exams. These plans allow individuals to break down the costs into manageable monthly payments, making it easier for students to afford the comprehensive training and certification packages.
Scholarships: While AAPC does not offer widespread financial aid like some educational institutions, it does provide a limited number of scholarships. These scholarships are typically awarded to students who demonstrate financial need or those who are active in certain professions or communities. These scholarships can help offset the cost of training programs and exam fees.
Discounts: Occasionally, AAPC offers discounted bundles for members, such as discounts on exam fees when purchasing comprehensive training packages.
Coding Clarified: Training and Purchase Options
Coding Clarified is another option for those looking to enter the world of medical coding, offering specialized courses and certification preparation.
Training Options
Coding Clarified offers a self-paced online course, typically focused on specific aspects of medical coding such as CPT coding, ICD-10 coding, and HCPCS coding. Unlike AAPC, which provides additional certification training packages, Coding Clarified has a more specialized, modular approach, allowing individuals to focus on CPC certification.
Pricing and Payment Options
One-Time Payment: Coding Clarified provides one-time payment options for individual courses. While this can make it more affordable for some, the costs can still be significant depending on the course or certification level chosen.
Installment Payments: Some programs offer the ability to pay in installments, allowing students to manage payments over time.
Coding Clarified Purchase Options https://codingclarified.com/purchase/
Medical Coding course includes the following:
- Access to the online medical coding class
- CPT, ICD10, HCPC, workbook & Textbook
- Instructor video/ audio files for each chapter to implement notes into your books
- 1:1 time with the instructor when needed
- Professionally written resume
- AAPC Membership
- CPC Exam Voucher
- Job placement assistance/resources
- Online HCC Internship
- Free 50-Question Practice Exam
- Practicode
https://codingclarified.com/mastering-online-medical-coding-training/
Scholarships and Discounts
Both AAPC and Coding Clarified offer scholarships and discounts, though their approaches differ:
AAPC Scholarships
As mentioned, AAPC provides scholarships, but these are typically limited. Their scholarship opportunities are most often geared toward individuals in need of financial assistance or specific communities within healthcare. AAPC scholarships can sometimes cover the cost of a CPC exam or training, but they are not widely available and typically require an application process.
Additionally, AAPC offers discounts for membership or when students purchase bundles. These discounts may apply to exam fees or certification training.
Coding Clarified Scholarships
Coding Clarified has a robust scholarship program.
Additionally, Coding Clarified offers ongoing access the CPC course, ensuring students can complete their learning at their own pace without worrying about time constraints or additional costs once they have enrolled in a specific program.
Coding Clarified scholarship https://codingclarified.com/scholarships/
Comparing AAPC and Coding Clarified
Here’s a comparison of key factors between AAPC and Coding Clarified when it comes to financial aid, training options, and scholarships:
Final Thoughts: Which Option is Right for You?
The choice between AAPC and Coding Clarified will depend largely on your goals, financial situation, and preferred learning style:
AAPC is ideal for individuals looking for certification programs and who may benefit from recognizable credentials like the CPC or other specialized certifications. Although their financial aid options are limited, they offer payment plans, which can help reduce the upfront costs. Additionally, AAPC’s well-established reputation in the industry makes it a strong choice for anyone serious about a long-term career in medical coding.
Coding Clarified is perfect for those who need a more flexible, specialized approach to learning. If you prefer self-paced, modular training for AAPC CPC (Coding Clarified is an AAPC education partner using the AAPC curriculum), Coding Clarified offers excellent, affordable training options. Though their scholarships are limited to certain USA states, their courses are often less expensive and provide a more hands-on, practical coding education.
Both options have their benefits, so consider your learning preferences, budget, and career goals before making a decision.
Coding Clarified purchase options https://codingclarified.com/purchase/