Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
The Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certification is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and it is designed for entry-level medical coders. The CCA certification is intended to demonstrate a foundational understanding of medical coding principles and practices.
Exam Format
To earn the CCA certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, and ICD-10-CM and CPT coding. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Once a candidate has passed the CCA certification exam, they are awarded the CCA credential and can use the designation after their name.
Eligibility
The CCA certification is valid for one year, and credential holders are required to renew their certification by earning continuing education units (CEUs). To renew the CCA credential, candidates must earn a minimum of 10 CEUs during the one-year certification cycle. CEUs can be earned by completing various professional development activities, such as attending conferences, participating in webinars or online courses, or completing self-study courses.
Renewal of Certified Coding Associate (CCA) Certification
The CCA certification is valid for one year, and credential holders are required to renew their certification by earning continuing education units (CEUs). To renew the CCA credential, candidates must earn a minimum of 10 CEUs during the one-year certification cycle. CEUs can be earned by completing various professional development activities, such as attending conferences, participating in webinars or online courses, or completing self-study courses.
Benefits of Getting the Certified Coding Associate Certification
The CCA certification offers several benefits to entry-level medical coders, including higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and professional recognition. It demonstrates that the holder has a foundational understanding of medical coding principles and practices, and is committed to ongoing professional development in the field.
Preparation for the Exam
AHIMA offers several resources to help candidates prepare for the CCA certification exam, including study guides, online courses, and practice exams. AHIMA also offers ongoing professional development opportunities to help CCA credential holders stay up-to-date on changes and advancements in the field.
The CCA certification is a respected credential for entry-level medical coders, and can lead to higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and professional recognition in the healthcare industry. The certification exam covers a wide range of topics, and the certification must be renewed annually by earning continuing education units.