Does one need a degree to get certified?

[RosasHomestead]

Hello,

I was working on a Penn Foster medical coding certificate program but have not finished due to buying a house, moving and having a baby. I cannot afford to pay for the program all over again. So my question is, do I need a certificate/degree in order to take the certification exam (CPC or CCS)? Thank you!

 

[Laureen]

No you don't need to get a certificate of completion to take the exam - you just need to be prepared. I'm not sure if Penn Foster's certificate of completion waives on of the years of experience with the AAPC or not - our program does. That would be a consideration to finishing.

As far as advice on how to prepare for the exam once your course is over consider our CPC Exam Review Blitz videos and timed practice exams.

Here's a copy and paste from our CPC Exam Success Formula:

https://ccorg.freshdesk.com/support/solutions/articles/5000549343-cco-s-formula-for-success-in-passing-cpc-exam

Tried and True CPC Exam Success Formula:

1. Take a full coding course (80 Hour College Equivalent) where you get plenty of opportunity to practice coding. To see details on CCO’s Physician Based Coding course go here ==> Physician Based Medical Coding Course
2. Watch all CCO CPC® Review Blitz videos and mark up coding manuals according to Bubbling and Highlighting™ technique. To see details on CCO’s Coding Certification Review Blitz go here ==> CCO’s Coding Certification Review Blitz
3. Practice Blitz exam taking techniques by completing TIMED practice exams.
   1. Start with shorter 50-60 question exams and finish with a 150 question exam.
   2. Allow your self an hour per 25-30 questions.
   3. Complete entire exam in one shot, perhaps going to the library where you won’t be disturbed and to make it feel like the real thing.
   4. Use a digital kitchen timer to count time down 60 minutes at a time per the Blitz technique.
   5. Use a sample test grid to get used to using it for the real exam.
   6. Score your answers and review ALL rationales thouroughly.
   7. Repeat the process until you score an 85% on shorter exams.
   8. Then if time and budget allow complete a 150 question practice exam.
4. Go over questions you don’t understand with an instructor or seasoned coder.

Where to get CPC Practice Exams:

1. Free 50 questions CCO's FREE CPC Practice Exam
2. Practice exam bundled into CPC Review Blitz Package
3. Mini-Mocks by CCO (60 questions each) $29.95 each or three for $69.95
4. Practice Exams by AAPC (50 questions each) $29.95 each or three for $69.95
5. 150 Question Practice Exams
   1. From Vendor A – one 150 Question Exam for $37
   2. From Vendor B – two 150 Questions Exams plus mini study guide for $97