How long does it take to get certified in medical coding?

The time required to get certified in medical coding can vary depending on individual learning style, available time for study, and chosen certification paths. Here are general timelines for obtaining medical coding certifications:

1. Medical Coding Certification (CMC):

- The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) offers the CMC credential.

- The time it takes to prepare for the CMC exam can vary, but on average, individuals spend 2-6 months studying.

- The recommended study time includes completing an accredited medical coding training program and gaining practical coding experience.

2. Certified Coding Specialist (CCS):

- This credential is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

- The CCS exam preparation typically involves 2-8 months of study and practical experience.

- In addition to medical coding training, AHIMA recommends familiarity with medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.

3. Certified Professional Coder (CPC):

- The AAPC offers the CPC credential.

- Similar to the CMC, the CPC exam preparation also takes around 2-6 months.

- Candidates are required to have a good grasp of medical coding concepts and principles, along with some coding experience.

4. Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT):

- This certification is offered by AHIMA.

- The RHIT exam preparation typically lasts for 6-10 months due to its comprehensive scope.

- Along with medical coding, the exam covers topics like medical terminology, health data management, and regulatory compliance.

5. Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS):

- Offered by the AAPC, the CMRS certification focuses on medical reimbursement and coding accuracy.

- Exam preparation for CMRS typically takes around 2-6 months.

- Candidates should understand coding regulations and procedures related to medical claims and reimbursements.

It's important to note that while most medical coding certification exams can be taken after completing the recommended study time, candidates are usually required to work in medical coding positions for a specific duration before being awarded the credentials. This is commonly referred to as the "experience requirement."

To sum it up, the timeline to get certified in medical coding varies, but it generally takes from a few months to a year depending on the certification path and individual learning pace.