CPC's represent the best in outpatient coding, demonstrate working knowledge to support better run practices with clearer claims, faster reimbursement and fewer denials. Here are 10 reasons to get certified:
Reason #1
CPC's experience lower unemployment rates than a coder without certification.
Reason #2
CPC's have a better chance of being hiredand holding jobs in a competitive job market.
Reason #3
CPC's are recognized as holding the “Gold Standard” for medical billing and coding. Of the 134,000+ members of the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), more than 95,000 are Certified Professional Coders (CPC).
Reason #4
More and more employers advertise that CPC certification will be required by job applicants and that applicants will not be considered if they are not certified.
Reason #5
Becoming a Certified Professional Coder opens up networking opportunities. Local AAPC Chapters have regular meetings, events and opportunities to earn Continuing Education credit, many times at little or no cost. This allows CPC coders to better handle issues and provides information about regulation changes that could affect reimbursement. The AAPC Annual Conference provides other opportunities to advance your career as well.
Reason #6
CPC Coders typically receive more recognition for knowledge and expertise, as well as maintaining a verifiable skillset. This results in better salaries and opportunities for growth in the healthcare profession. According to a Salary Survey conducted in 2013, the average salary across all individuals that hold a medical coding certification through the AAPC was $46,847 (this includes payer, hospital and audit certifications).
Reason #7
Membership with the AACP provides access to resources like ICD-10 training. The implementation for ICD-10-CM and Procedure Coding System (PCS), is scheduled for October 1, 2014. The more prepared you are, the better you are able to maintain your credentials and stay proficient in your career field. AAPC is helping coders, organizations and payers prepare for this change.
Reason #8
A resume indicating CPC certification can lead to job interviews more frequently, especially when applying online.
Reason #9
Both UMA's Medical Billing and Coding diploma program and Associate of Science in Medical Billing and Coding degree program prepare students to take the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam offered through the AAPC. This industry-recognized certification demonstrates coding skill and accuracy to potential employers.
Reason #10
CPC's can participate in: workshops presented in cities across the country, webinars, provide access to experts to answer questions, on-demand events – downloadable podcasts, presentation slides and Q/A transcripts without the cost and inconvenience of time and travel, to stay current in the Medical Billing and Coding profession.