Successful coders are detail oriented, enjoy human anatomy and physiology, pathology, and possess analytical skills. More about: Certified Coding Associate Certified Professional Coder Career Opportunities

CCA: CERTIFIED CODING ASSOCIATE

Q: Why has AHIMA created this credential?

A: AHIMA recognizes that the demand for coders has never been greater and this need is expected to continue for some years to come. By creating an entry-level coding credential based on job analysis standards and state-of-the-art test construction, AHIMA aims to increase the number of qualified new coders. The result? A larger pool of qualified coders for employers to choose from; greater success in managing health information; and recognition for AHIMA members as industry experts and leaders in clinical coding.

Q: Why does a new coder need the CCA?

A: New coders who earn the CCA will immediately demonstrate their competency in the field, even if they do not have much job experience. Earning a CCA demonstrates a commitment to coding even for those who are new in the field. CCA holders will also distinguish themselves from non-credentialed coders and those who hold credentials from other organizations that do not require the higher level of expertise necessary to earn AHIMA certification.

Q: How does the CCA compare to the CCS and CCS-P?

A: The CCA should be viewed as the starting point for an individual entering a new career as a coder. The CCS and/or CCS-P exams demonstrate the mastery level skills that the CCA would strive for to advance his or her career.

Q: How does the CCA compare to the RHIA and RHIT credential?

A: CCA holders will have demonstrated only their knowledge related to coding. In contrast, RHIA or RHIT holders (who must hold a baccalaureate or associate degree, respectively) have demonstrated their expertise in a full range of HIM areas from data management, privacy, compliance, and other supervisory and managerial roles as well as coding.

CPC: CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL CODER

Q: What is a Certified Professional Coder?

A: A Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is an individual of high professional integrity who has passed a coding certification examination sponsored by the American Academy of Professional Coders (the Academy). The examination consists of questions regarding the correct application of CPT®, HCPCS procedure and supply codes and ICD-9-CM diagnosis codes used for billing professional medical services to insurance companies. A CPC must have at least two years coding experience and maintain yearly CEU requirements.

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Career Opportunities

The need for skilled personnel in the field has grown significantly with the expanding needs for information. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment is expected to grow faster than average for HIM Professionals.  The mean annual wage for HIM Professionals is $25,000 - $30,000.

AHIMA: American Health Information Management Association
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Health Information Technicians

Information packets containing the information on these pages can be downloaded at this site, or copies of the necessary documents may be requested at (757) 822-7257.

If you have any additional questions, please call Terry Eusebio in the Counseling Center (757) 822-7211, or attend the Health Information Management "Open House" which is held on the third Thursday of each month from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. in the Regional Health Professions Center, Building M, Room 312 on the Virginia Beach Campus. The program director will be available to answer any questions you may have concerning the Health Information Management Program.