Certifications (Health Science & Nursing): Certified Coding Associate (CCA)

Certified Coding Associate (CCA®)
Based upon job analysis standards and state-of-the-art test construction, the CCA designation has been a nationally accepted standard of achievement in the health information management (HIM) field since 2002. More than 8,000 people have attained the certification since inception. 

The CCA credential distinguishes coders by exhibiting commitment and demonstrating coding competencies across all settings, including both hospitals and physician practices. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a shortage of more than 50,000 qualified HIM and HIT workers by 2015. Becoming a CCA positions you as a leader in an exciting and growing market. CCAs:

• Exhibit a level of commitment, competency, and professional capability that employers are looking for
• Demonstrate a commitment to the coding profession
• Distinguish themselves from non-credentialed coders and those holding credentials from organizations less demanding of the higher level of expertise required to earn AHIMA certification 

How Does the CCA Compare with Other AHIMA Coding Credentials?
The CCA exhibits coding competency in any setting, including both hospitals and physician practices. The CCS and CCS-P® exams demonstrate mastery level skills in an area of specialty: hospital-based for CCS's and physician practice-based for CCS-Ps.

Exam Information:

• Exam Vouchers: one
• Student Cost:
  • Non Member: $74.75
  • or AHIMA Member $49.75 (plus $12.25 membership cost)
• Number of questions: 100 
• Format: multiple choice
• Test Length:  2 hours
• Passing Score: The grading for the CCA is complex, but simplistically, a passing score is about 300 out of 400. You find out your score immediately after you take the test.

For more information about the exam (Overview, Applying, and Exam Prep), please visit the Certified Coding Associate (CCA®) website.

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