Starting Fresh

[Katy Shao]

I need opinions, since I did not pass the CPC exam, I am not sure if I should start reading my Medical Terminology and Anatomy first, before I starting practicing for the exam? I am a little weak on those two subjects. Please help me .

 

[Laureen]

Hi Katy,

Did you finish your PBC course with us and follow all the steps in the formula?

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

 

[Laureen]

And regarding doing med term first or not - we reccomend doing it along side your coding course. So when you are getting ready to do digestive surgery coding you would do the digestive system in medical terminology/anatomy course first. We have a schedule mapped out in our MTA course membership area to match up with the PBC course.

 

[Katy Shao]

Even I have took a billing and coding course you would still recommended that I take a physican base coding course again? Also do I need to buy the mosted updated CPT book , ICD 9 and Hcpcs? Because for the CPT, ICD-9 ,HCPCS, i have the 2014 books.

 

[Laureen]

It depends on how long ago you took your course. If you are after the CPC credential I reccomend you take the free practice exam on this site an see how you score. Do it in two hours. If below a 60 I'd do the course.

Free CCO CPC Practice Exam - http://cco.pe/RE8dd4

 

[AmaalS]

as new learner , i really enjoy it it seam need more practice

 

[Laureen]

Yes practice is a good thing - not just for the exam but for being good at our coding jobs.

 

[Katy Shao]

For the Physician Based Coding Course will it help me passed the CPC exam? I am thinking to take the course but not sure if it will help or not?

 

[Laureen]

Yes it prepares you to be a coder and to pass the CPC exam.

 

[AmaalS]

I am interested ,I am grateful , thank you