Approved Coding Program Approval Process

Programs that wish to offer a certificate in coding can demonstrate to the public that they offer a comprehensive certificate program that meets the national model curriculum and has been evaluated for compliance for faculty qualifications and program standards by being recognized as an AHIMA Approved Coding Program.  Programs that are approved may display the AHIMA approval seal on their web site, participate in a private Community of Practice for approved coding programs, and receive reports on the exam outcomes of their graduates for the CCA

AHIMA Approved Programs are advertised in the AHIMA Approved Coding Program Directory as well as at the AHIMA student recruitment web site, Health Information Careers.

The approval process consists of completing a self assessment, paying the approval fee, and participating in the peer review approval process. There is no onsite survey component.  Once all standards are met, the program is approved for five years, and then must reapply.

Program Application Materials

1. Coding Education Program Approval (CEPA) Instruction Manual
2. GAP Analysis (step one of a two step process)
3. CEPA Template (step two of a two step process)