Q&A CCA

[Jennifer V.]

I am currently taking a ICD - 9 CM, ICD - 10 CM coding course through a local community college. I was told that in many instances that AHIMA based credentials will open more doors to coding. I just started work in HIM (after volunteering for a over a year) at a small local hospital and want to move to coding in the hospital. I feel like even if I get my CCA that without experience in coding I would not be able to move to a position in my hospital. Is AAPC a better option and can I get a job in a hospital with those credentials?

 

[Laureen]

Hi Jenifer,

Thanks for stopping by! AHIMA vs. AAPC has been a long standing debate. I am a member of both and have had credentials with both - currently I only have credentials with the AAPC. My opinion is if you are planning on working in a hospital then AHIMA is more recognized/respected. If you are planning on working outside of a hospital (doctor's office, billing company, outpatient centers, etc.) then AAPC is more recognized. And quite honestly many poential employers get educated by us as to what all the credentials mean.

That being said I have heard that the CCA (junior coding credential) doesn't carry much weight with those that recognize AHIMA credentials. The alternative is the much harder - much Much MUCH harder CCS exam. AHIMA says to not even try it if you have not been doing inpatient coding for two years! So that leaves AHIMA's CCS-P which is a physician based coding credential and not what inpatient hospital coding departments are normally looking for.

Soooooo my advice has been to start with your CPC by AAPC - it demonstrates CPT, ICD and HCPCS proficiency. THEN work toward CCS certification. Be a member of both organizations to put that on your resume and be affiliated with both.

This is just my opinion - add it to what others have told you and I'm sure you'll come up with a plan.