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Certified Coding Specialist--Physician-based (CCS-P) |
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The CCS-P exam is based on ICD-9-CM codes effective 10/1/06 and CPT/HCPCS codes effective 1/1/07. The 2007 exam will be administered through May 17, 2008 (2007 test blueprint). Candidates must bring the 2007 versions of ICD-9-CM Volumes 1-3, CPT, and the HCPCS National Level II coding books to the testing center. Only the American Medical Association CPT code book is permitted. A medical dictionary is optional.
LIST OF ALLOWABLE CODEBOOKS CCS-P Required Books and Test Booklet Change
Candidates without the required 2007 codebooks will not be permitted to test and will forfeit their application fee.
Beginning June 3, 2008 candidates will be required to bring their 2008 ICD-9-CM Volumes 1-2 codebook and the 2008 CPT codebook to the test center. |
Exam Preparation
The CCS-P is a coding practitioner with expertise in physician-based settings such as physician offices, group practices, multi-specialty clinics, or specialty centers. This coding practitioner reviews patients' records and assigns numeric codes for each diagnosis and procedure. To perform this task, the individual must possess in-depth knowledge of the CPT coding system and familiarity with the ICD-9-CM and HCPCS Level II coding systems. The CCS-P is also expert in health information documentation, data integrity, and quality. Because patients' coded data is submitted to insurance companies or the government for expense reimbursement, the CCS-P plays a critical role in the health provider's business operation. What's more, the employment outlook for this coding specialty looks highly favorable with the growth of managed care and the movement of health services delivery beyond the hospital.
The CCS-P certification exam assesses mastery or proficiency in coding rather than entry-level skills. If you perform coding in a doctor's office, clinic, or similar setting, you should consider obtaining the CCS-P certification to attest your ability.
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