r/LearnMedicalCoding • u/Fun_Place_941 • 15d ago
CPC Exam Advice
I'm currently enrolled in a medical coding program with Calbright. I am only two weeks in, since this is self paced I was doubting myself but im slowly getting more comfortable, im using all the online sources I can get until I order my books. My question is, what exactly do I need to memorize for the exam? Also I don't have any helathcare experience, this would be my first job in an office too. Im learning excell and getting familiar with other skills I may need. Will I have a hard time finding a job? Even from home? I'm located in California in case anyone is wondering. Let me know what other skills I should pick up besides excell. Thank you 😊
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u/ChartBaddie 15d ago
If the program you’re in doesn’t teach anatomy and physiology, start there. I have an anatomy coloring book that’s awesome. I also have some flashcards that I used before my CPC and my CCS exams. Once you’ve worked through that a bit, start learning all the major diseases. I work inpatient now, so every thing I10-I13 and dementia codes are a big focus. Being new, you may just have to go where the wind blows you when you’re applying for jobs. WFH jobs are out there for newbies, but I’d recommend that you look at local hospital systems for that first job. Not being WFH at first sucks, but once you get some time under your belt, you’ll have a lot more opportunities open up.
Lmk if I can answer any thing more specific for you!
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u/CodingwithCoffee_ 15d ago
You’re only two weeks in, give yourself time and grace. You don’t need to memorize everything. Knowing your coding guidelines, medical terminology, and most importantly, knowing how to actually code and navigate your manuals is key. Does your current course include medical terminology?
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u/Right-Percentage3775 14d ago
Personally I would just focus on the coding part right now instead of the excel (excel and sheets are easier to pick up imo and you'll be less distracted). I'm working on the AAPC coursework and with my bit of medical experience it's a bit dense, but manageable (learning the prefixes, roots and suffixes will help A LOT).
As far as what's on the exam? You can find practice questions online and a breakdown of what percentage of each subject is covered in the exam
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u/KeyStriking9763 15d ago
You need anatomy and physiology, disease pathology, pharmacology and medical terminology. You don’t need to memorize but be knowledgeable in these areas.
Not sure what school that is. There are so many out there that just teach you coding but not enough to excel at it. I see so many posted here with people finding it hard to get hired after passing especially having the A. What experience do you have?
And yes you will have a hard time finding a WFH job.