CCS Certification

Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certification

• The CCS certification, awarded by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), signifies proficiency in medical coding.

• CCS-certified professionals are skilled in classifying medical data from patient records, often in a hospital setting but also in various other healthcare environments.

• This credential demonstrates a practitioner’s tested skills in data quality, accuracy, and mastery of coding proficiency.

Role of CCS Professionals:

• Review and Assign Codes: CCSs review patients’ records and assign numeric codes for each diagnosis and procedure.

• Coding Systems Expertise: They possess expertise in the ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT® coding systems.

• Medical Knowledge: CCSs are well-versed in medical terminology, disease processes, and pharmacology concepts.

Eligibility Requirements:

• While not required, one of the following is recommended to sit for the CCS examination:

  • Completion of courses in anatomy & physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, medical terminology, reimbursement methodology, intermediate/advanced ICD diagnostic coding, and procedural coding (CPT/HCPCS) plus one year of coding experience directly applying codes.

  • Minimum of two years of related coding experience directly applying codes.

  • Hold the CCA® credential plus one year of coding experience directly applying codes.

  • Hold a coding credential from another certifying organization plus one year of coding experience directly applying codes.

  • Hold a CCS-P®, RHIT®, or RHIA® credential.

Exam Overview:

• The CCS exam is a timed test with 107 questions.

• Candidates have four hours to complete it.

• The exam covers both inpatient and outpatient coding scenarios.

• It consists of a Multiple-Choice Section and a Medical Scenario Section (inpatient, outpatient, and emergency department).

Check other credential certification details at official AHIMA site.