Wiki What coding certification would you recommend.

I'm currently employed. Got 645hrs of training before getting my CPC-A. I've been in my role as a hospitalist coder for 7 months, so still a bit away from removing my apprentice designation. Overall happy with my position, but AAPC is putting individual exams on sale for 15 days. So, considering if any would be worth my time to increase my resume. I'm honestly very concerned if I lose this job (which is kind of constantly under threat by manager) that I won't be able to secure another this good in pay and flexibility. I do not have and am not planning on pursuing a college degree currently.

Wondering what AAPC certifications have been the most useful for bolstering the resume in your experience?

Why is your manager threatening your job? Before you invest time/money in another certification, try to find out if this is the manager's (unfortunate) tactic, or if the manager is worried about your job performance. If it's the latter, you may want to focus on improving your coding skills in your current job rather than try to seek additional certification. It's a lot easier to move to another role if you're already successfully working in a hospital.

There's no one correct answer. If you plan to stay where you are....what kinds of coders do they need? Inpatient (CIC), Outpatient facility (COC), or a surgical specialty? Do they need auditors/educators (CPMA)? You should have a plan in place, and definitely an interest in a specialty area before you dive in......because job postings are random and there's no one size that fits all when it comes to coding. Seven months' experience is barely a drop in a bucket, and I wouldn't want to encourage you to get another certification at this time without your really understanding where you want your career to head.

My advice is to use that CPC-A, become the best coder they have, get the A removed, look around and see what other opportunities are available in your hospital, and develop a plan of action when you have more experience and insight. Good luck.

I strongly suggest getting additional certifications only if you need to. More certifications is not as important as experience, which you're getting now. Stay there as long as you can to get rid of your A. I'm sorry you have what appears to be a toxic manager. If possible, maybe see if you can code for another department once your A is removed. This way, you get away from the toxicity and gain new experience. Good luck!!

Definitely another voice to agree with the above. IF you wish to expand your knowledge AND there is an area that specifically interests you, then consider getting that additional certification. You should view it as - I'm getting another certification because a particular specialty, or type of coding interests me. If you are getting another certification just to put on your resume, but don't enjoy that type of coding, even with a sale, it was a waste of money. I've been coding for 25+ years, and only got my second certification in 2023. Getting your -A removed and some experience under your belt is key at this point in your career journey.