CPC-H-A

[Janice]

I just graduated from College and I am looking to work in the hospital, so I know I need to take the CPC-H-A before I can take the CPC-H because I have no hosptial experience. but the CPC-H does not offer inpatient coding, only out patient, the CCA offers the inpatient. So in order to be able to do both do I need to take both the CPC-H and the CCA after I take the CPC-H-A when I get my experience and letters of references? Oh and does the CPC-H-A use the same materials on the exam as the CPC?

 

[Laureen]

If you want inpatient you should shoot for the CCS but since that is one of the hardest if not the hardest coding exams I'd go with the CPC-H plus the CCS so you can get one under your belt as you prepare for the CCS. Plus you will have your feet in both camps (AAPC and AHIMA) so to speak.