Let's start with the fact that you have taken a classroom using the AAPC textbooks. I would think that the course would have certainly covered a lot of information that you will need for certification. So that is an excellent start down the road to certification. Sweet!
Having recently gone through this whole endeavor to become certified, myself, I would highly recommend getting the Blitz videos. I know CodingCertification.Org takes credit card orders. Not sure about the other options. Laureen gives excellent advice on what to "Bubble and Highlight" that will help you see and remember the information you need when answering questions on the board exam. I would definitely recommend you do this sooner rather than later in your preparation for taking the exam. It will help you for all the other activities -- using the review books, workbooks, and doing the practice exams, and the actual Board Exam. Click on this link:
Blitz Videos.
If there are topics that you know you are weak on, study and work on exercises for those. I would recommend concentrating on the exercises where you can check the answers!
Next, take a practice exam, setting the timer appropriately. If doing all 150 questions, use 5 hours 40 minutes. If only doing 50 questions, I recommend stopping after 1 hour 48 minutes, but not taking any breaks. This time limit is a little short, but corresponds to having to take some time during the actual exam for going to the restroom, eating an energy bar/ drink, and/or slowing down somewhat from fatigue.
Take a break after a practice exam, but be sure to review the answers for all the questions, and glean as much understanding you can from the answers. Then, for subject areas where you are missing questions, do some more review. You can use your textbook, study guide, workbook, etc. for this. It is all good!
Eventually take a full 150 question practice exam. Laureen recommends getting an 85% at least before taking the Board Exam.
Now for job searching tips: read these Medical Coding Certification blog posts from
CodingCertification.Org.
10 Medical Coding Tips To Land Your First Medical Coder Job
Medical Coding Job Search Tips
Best wishes for success in your endeavor to become a certified medical coder!
