CGS Health Information Technology Programs: Call 704-254-7900: How Did You Pass the CPC Exam and Get a Job?

I get asked the following questions often: How can I pass the AAPC exam? How can I get my first job? The truth is, everyone has a different path to success. You can not base your journey on the path of another person.

The following interviews should be encouraging. One of the students attended a college program and the other attended a 16 week class offered through unemployment. Read their interviews and hopefully you will be encouraged. I always feel uplifted when I witness the progress of my students!

Taquita at work

Taquita Eason, CPC

Why did you choose to take a medical billing and coding class?

Before I took the 8 month course at Southeastern Institute, I attended Gaston College for a two week class on computers for Medical Billing. I found that to be quite interesting. So one day I received an email from Southeastern Institute and instead of deleting it, I read the email and scheduled an appointment! The rest is history!

How did you adjust to entering a new industry?

When I started, I was overwhelmed. There was so much to learn and I had so many questions. I had to retrain my brain to accept all the new information that I was learning.

How did you get your current job?

A very dear classmate of mine was lucky enough to obtain a position as a coder while I was working as a Benefit Verification Specialist at a consulting company. My friend called me one day. She asked for my resume` because there was a position available in her department. I sent my resume to her. I had a hard time deciding on whether to leave the position as a verification specialist. After a lot of thinking and weighing my options, I decided to go for it!

What has been the most challenging part of working in the medical industry ?

It is challenging to stay current with all the new codes and guidelines for all of the payers.

What plans do you have for the future?

My goal is to ascertain my specialty credential (CPRC) Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery.

What steps did you take to pass the AAPC exam?

I participated in study groups and completed several practice exams. I made sure that the notes and tips provided by my instructor were entered into my coding manuals. The day before the test, I went to my son's football game, then met up with a classmate for some shopping and dinner. Then, I went home and watched a movie. The next day I took my exam and passed!

Carleisha at work

Carleisha Moore,CPC

Why did you choose medical billing and coding?

I was looking for a different and challenging career in the medical field with job security, professional environment, flexible hours and the ability to do a lot of research.

How did you adjust to entering a new industry?

I adjusted very well by learning the ins and outs of the outpatient office setting by implementing the knowledge, practice and skills I learned in class and on the job training.

How did you get your current job?

I got my current job through my instructor at CGS Billing Service and I also received on the job training.

What has been the most challenging part of working in the medical industry?

The most challenging part working in the medical industry for me is learning the medical terminology, understanding some of the operative notes and understanding the physician's handwriting.

What plans do you have the future?

My plans for the future is to start my own home-based business.

What steps did you take to pass the AAPC exam?

I read the guidelines daily, practiced using online testing, attended chapter meetings, joined a study group, attended exam prep workshops and reviewed online videos of the chapters I was studying during the week.

Is this Career for You?

If you search google for medical billing and coding, you will find a host of schools that offer training. If you call, you will be encouraged to sign up for class. Of course, that is normal. However, you need to determine if this career is for you. I mean, you need to REALLY be sure.

Ponder over the following personality traits:

1. Independent: Can you complete tasks without direction? Do you have to be encouraged constantly. Many billers and coders have assignments and they are expected to complete them within a specific time frame.

2. Decision maker: Can you make logical decisions? Do you constantly need to consult with others prior to deciding what should be done?

3. Detail oriented: Do you pay attention to the little things? Are you capable of looking for trends?

4. Organizational skills: You must be organized. You will handle a variety of forms and important documents.

5. Computer literate: Do you know how to use a computer? The basics: attach documents, use word, and etc

Earn your CPC credentials in just 5 months with CGS Billing Service

Become a professional medical coder in just 5 months and save thousands of dollars with CGS Billing Service. Some colleges and other institutions charge $17,000 or more for coding certification. CGS Billing Services offers better classes for $4433.00. This includes tuition, books, and an opportunity to take the CPC exam twice! If you are interested in earning your coding credentials through a well known and respected company, consider CGS Billing Service. You can earn coding credentials from the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) with a little guidance. Please scroll down this screen. Make an appointment today! We will be happy to assess your needs.

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