Certified Coding Associate (CCA) Certification
The healthcare industry is continually growing, and as a result, the demand for medical coders is on the rise. Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is a recognized credential in the medical coding field. It indicates that the individual has met the necessary requirements and possesses the knowledge and skills required to excel in the medical coding profession.
If you’re interested in obtaining a CCA certification, here are the requirements you need to fulfill.
Education Requirements
The first requirement to obtain a CCA certification is a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, candidates must complete an accredited coding program. The coding program must cover the foundational knowledge and skills required to excel in the coding field. These skills include medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM, and CPT coding.
Experience Requirements
To be eligible for the CCA certification exam, candidates must have experience in the medical coding field. This experience can be gained through an internship, externship, or entry-level coding position. The required experience is at least six months of coding experience in an acute care setting. This experience must be within the last two years before taking the exam.
Exam Requirements
Once the education and experience requirements are met, candidates must take and pass the CCA certification exam. The exam is computer-based and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The questions are designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and skills in the following areas:
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology
- ICD-10-CM coding
- CPT coding
- HCPCS coding
- Reimbursement methodologies
The exam is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers and can be taken year-round. The passing score for the exam is 300 or higher, out of a possible 400.
Continuing Education Requirements
Once the CCA certification is obtained, it must be maintained through continuing education. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) requires that CCA-certified professionals complete 20 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years. These CEUs can be obtained through various means, such as attending conferences, taking courses, or participating in webinars.
Obtaining a CCA certification is an excellent way to advance your career in the medical coding field. The certification indicates that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the profession. The requirements for obtaining the CCA certification include completing an accredited coding program, gaining at least six months of coding experience, and passing the certification exam. Additionally, the certification must be maintained through continuing education. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in medical coding, the CCA certification is an excellent place to start.