Medical Coding Certification Scholarships/Grants Available in Washington

AAPC CPC Certification: Guidelines, Information, and Job Outlook for Washington

The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification, awarded by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), is a prestigious credential in the medical coding field. For professionals in Washington state, obtaining CPC certification can significantly impact career advancement and open up numerous opportunities. This blog outlines the guidelines for acquiring AAPC CPC certification, provides essential information about the certification process, and examines the job outlook for certified medical coders in Washington.

AAPC CPC Certification Guidelines

1. Eligibility Requirements
   • Experience: Typically, candidates need at least two years of medical coding experience to qualify for the CPC exam. However, individuals who have completed a formal medical coding training program may also be eligible to take the exam without prior professional experience.
   • Training: While formal experience is not always mandatory, it is highly recommended. Many candidates enhance their preparation through coding courses that cover essential topics such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS Level II codes.
2. Exam Overview
   • Format: The CPC exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The test is administered in a computer-based format.
   • Content: Topics include medical terminology, anatomy, coding guidelines, and payer policies. The exam assesses candidates’ abilities to apply coding principles to various scenarios.
   • Duration: The CPC exam lasts 4 hours with no included breaks.
3. Study Materials
   • AAPC Resources: AAPC offers various study materials, including textbooks, and practice exams. Key resources include the “CPC Study Guide” and “CPC Practice Exam.”

     https://www.aapc.com/shop2/study-guides/cpc-study-guide.aspx https://www.aapc.com/shop2/practice-exams.aspx#cpc

   • Study Groups and Forums: Engaging with online forums or local study groups can provide additional support and insights during preparation.

Medical Coding for Newbies Medical Coding and Billing Forum

1. Certification Process
   • Application: Candidates must purchase a membership via the AAPC website, pay the exam fee, and schedule their exam either at a testing center or via online proctoring.
   • Certification: Upon passing the exam, candidates receive their CPC certification, which validates their expertise and enhances career opportunities. Unless you have experience the designated certification is an apprentice status CPC-A.
2. Continuing Education
   • CEUs: To maintain CPC certification, coders must earn 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years. This requirement ensures that professionals stay current with the latest coding practices and regulations.
   • Renewal: Renewal involves completing the required CEUs and paying a renewal fee.

Job Outlook for Certified Medical Coders in Washington

1. Employment Growth
   • State Trends: The demand for certified medical coders in Washington is strong, reflecting national trends. The state’s expanding healthcare sector contributes to a steady need for skilled coders.
   • BLS Projections: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical records and health information technicians, which includes medical coders, is projected to grow by 8% from 2021 to 2031. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations.
2. Salary Expectations
   • Average Salary: In Washington, the average annual salary for medical coders varies by experience, location, and job setting. As of 2023, the average salary for medical coders in Washington ranges from approximately $53,000 to $60,000 per year. https://www.aapc.com/resources/medical-coding-and-billing-salaries-in-washington
   • Regional Differences: Salaries can differ between urban and rural areas. For example, coders in major cities like Seattle or Spokane may earn higher wages compared to those in less populated regions.
3. Job Opportunities
   • Healthcare Settings: Certified medical coders in Washington can find opportunities in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, insurance companies, and government agencies.
   • Remote Work: Remote work opportunities are increasingly available for medical coders. Many healthcare organizations offer remote positions, allowing for flexibility and a broader job market.
   • Career Advancement: CPC certification can lead to advanced career opportunities such as coding supervisor, auditor, or consultant. Further certifications and specializations can further enhance career prospects and earning potential.
4. Local Resources
   • AAPC Chapters: Washington has several AAPC chapters that offer networking opportunities, local events, and professional development. Participating in these chapters can provide valuable connections and resources. https://www.aapc.com/localchapters/find-local-chapter.aspx
   • Job Boards and Agencies: Local job boards and staffing agencies frequently list positions for certified medical coders, providing a range of employment opportunities across the state.  https://codingclarified.com/jobs/ https://jobs.aapc.com/jobs/ 

AAPC CPC certification is a valuable credential for medical coders in Washington, offering recognition of expertise and opening doors to numerous career opportunities. By understanding the certification guidelines, preparing effectively, and staying informed about the local job market, aspiring coders can position themselves for success in this dynamic field. With a strong job outlook and competitive salaries, a career in medical coding in Washington presents a rewarding and promising path for those dedicated to excellence in healthcare coding.

Please read these grant funding steps for Washington!

What’s the process to get approved for the state of Washington?

1. Find your closest Washington workforce location in your area by visiting the following link: WorkSource locator Search offices
2. Click the dropdown under Select an area: to select the closest workforce to your residence
3. Contact your closest local workforce and request an eligibility screening for a WIOA Grant for training (WRITE DOWN YOUR ASSIGNED CASE WORKERS NAME & EMAIL AS YOU WILL NEED THAT FOR THE NEXT STEP)
4. Click on the link below and complete it to its entirety. This link will create your Proposal & Acceptance letter that you need to provide to your Caseworker.

NOTE: Start Date needs to be at least 2 weeks from today’s date https://codingclarified.com/proposal-and-acceptance-pdf-form/

 NOTE: CIP CODE 51.0713 (Provide this to your Caseworker upon request)

Web address to locate CIP for informational purpose is: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/cipcode/Default.aspx?y=56

Title: Medical Insurance Coding Specialist/Coder.

Definition: A program that prepares individuals to perform specialized data entry, classification, and record-keeping procedures related to medical diagnostic, treatment, billing, and insurance documentation. Includes instruction in medical records and insurance software applications, basic anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, fundamentals of medical science and treatment procedures, data classification and coding, data entry skills, and regulations relating to Medicare and insurance documentation.

How to verify Coding Clarified is an APPROVED training provider in your state using the reciprocal agreement with Idaho

1. Click on the following link:  https://wtb.wa.gov/research-resources/etpl/
2. Click on the + that is in the Reciprocity Agreements section then select Idaho
3. Click on  Washington to view the Reciprocal agreement or click here

Steps to view our Approval Status in Idaho are as follows:

1. Click on the following link: IdahoWorks
2. Type Coding Clarified under the Keyword(s) text box then click Search

If you run into any difficulties or your local workforce office has any questions please have them contact Coding Clarified by email [email protected] or 833-633-2633. **Email is preferred**