AAPC CPC Certification: Guidelines, Information, and Job Outlook for Virginia
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is a highly regarded credential in the medical coding industry. For professionals in Virginia, obtaining the CPC certification can significantly enhance career prospects and open up a range of opportunities in the healthcare sector. This blog provides an overview of the AAPC CPC certification guidelines, essential information, and the job outlook for certified medical coders in Virginia.
AAPC CPC Certification Guidelines
- Eligibility Requirements
- Experience: Candidates are generally required to have at least two years of coding experience to sit for the CPC exam. However, those without experience may still qualify if they have completed a formal medical coding training program.
- Training: Although not mandatory, formal training is highly beneficial. Many candidates opt for coding courses that cover key areas such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS Level II codes.
- Exam Overview
- Format: The CPC exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. It is administered in a computer-based format.
- Content: Topics covered include medical terminology, anatomy, coding guidelines, and payer policies. The exam assesses candidates’ ability to apply coding principles to practical scenarios.
- Duration: The exam lasts 4 hours with no included breaks.
- Study Materials
- AAPC Resources: The AAPC offers a range of study materials including textbooks, practice exams.. The “CPC Study Guide” and “CPC Practice Exam” are particularly useful. https://www.aapc.com/shop2/study-guides/cpc-study-guide.aspx https://www.aapc.com/shop2/practice-exams.aspx#cpc
- Study Groups: Joining online forums or local study groups can provide additional support and insights. Medical Coding for Newbies Medical Coding and Billing Forum
- Certification Process
- Membership: Candidates must purchase an AAPC membership through the AAPC website, pay the exam fee, and schedule their exam.
- Testing Locations: The CPC exam is available at testing centers or via online proctoring, depending on location and preference
- Certification: After passing the exam, candidates receive their CPC certification and can use it to advance their careers. If you have no experience you will be designated an apprentice CPC-A. https://www.aapc.com/certifications/cpc/complete-your-cpc-apprenticeship
- Continuing Education
- CEUs: To maintain certification, CPCs must earn 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years.
- Renewal: Certification renewal involves completing CEUs and paying the AAPC membership fee yearly.
Job Outlook for Certified Medical Coders in Virginia
- Employment Growth
- State Trends: The demand for medical coders in Virginia is strong, in line with national trends. The state’s robust healthcare industry drives the need for skilled coders.
- BLS Projections: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical records and health information technicians, including medical coders, is projected to grow by 8% from 2021 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
- Salary Expectations
- Average Salary: In Virginia, the average annual salary for medical coders varies based on experience, location, and job setting. As of 2023, the average salary for medical coders in Virginia ranges from $48,000 to $55,000 per year. https://www.aapc.com/resources/medical-coding-and-billing-salaries-in-virginia
- Regional Variations: Salaries can differ between urban and rural areas. For example, coders in metropolitan areas like Washington D.C. and Richmond may earn higher wages compared to those in more rural regions.
- Job Opportunities
- Healthcare Settings: Certified medical coders in Virginia can find employment in a range of settings, including hospitals, private practices, insurance companies, and government agencies.
- Remote Work: The rise of remote work has expanded opportunities for medical coders in Virginia. Many healthcare organizations offer remote positions, providing flexibility and a broader job market.
- Career Advancement: CPC certification can lead to advanced roles such as coding supervisor, auditor, or consultant. Additionally, further certifications and specializations can enhance career prospects and earning potential.
- Local Resources
- AAPC Chapters: Virginia has several AAPC chapters that offer networking opportunities, local events, and professional development. Engaging with these chapters can provide valuable connections and resources for career growth. https://www.aapc.com/localchapters/find-local-chapter.aspx
- Job Boards and Agencies: Local job boards and staffing agencies in Virginia often list positions for certified medical coders, offering a range of employment opportunities across the state. https://jobs.aapc.com/jobs/?_gl=1*1ddg3u8*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3MjA2MzE1ODcuQ2p3S0NBanc0cmkwQmhBdkVpd0E4b282RjRPR3lNQXl1aS10cDBKcG9pamVTbi00VkhQcXQxcmcweU5qbldDWm1XYVRIcUd6YzR2RXlCb0NaR2dRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTAyMDY2NDgzOC4xNzIxOTk5NjI4*_ga*MTUxOTA3MjU5MC4xNzE0MTUzNzMy*_ga_YCM4N7Z8H4*MTcyNjUxNDE5Mi4yODguMS4xNzI2NTE0MjY3LjQ0LjAuMA..
https://codingclarified.com/jobs/
AAPC CPC certification is a valuable asset for medical coders in Virginia, offering a pathway to enhanced career prospects and professional recognition. By understanding the certification guidelines, preparing effectively, and staying informed about the local job market, aspiring coders can position themselves for success in this growing field. With a strong job outlook and competitive salaries, a career in medical coding in Virginia presents numerous opportunities for those dedicated to excellence in healthcare coding.
Please read these grant funding steps for Virginia!
What’s the process in getting approved for the state of Virginia?
- Find your closest workforce location in your area:
https://vawc.virginia.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx
Scroll down until you see the below options under GENERAL RESOURCES AND SERVICES:
- Contact your closest local workforce request eligibility screening for a WIOA Grant for training
- Provide the caseworker a Proposal & Acceptance letter here: https://codingclarified.com/proposal-and-acceptance-pdf-form/
- Provide caseworker with CIP Code 51.0713
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.
Link to access the approved ETPL IL Listing of approval status is: Here
https://vawc.virginia.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx (same website you located workforce offices)
Under JOB SEEKERS you will select TRAINING SERVICES
Next you will click on ETPL Approved Programs
Next page brings up a spreadsheet you are going to click on the Provider column to alphabetize.
Scroll until you locate CODING CLARIFIED LLC under the Provider column (on or about Page 7 you will find it)
Click on Virginia Workforce Centers which will bring up state workforce offices
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**