Top Tips for Passing Your COC Certification Exam

COC certification, or Certified Outpatient Coder certification, validates your skills in outpatient medical coding—a growing field in healthcare. This article covers what COC certification is, why it matters, and how to pass the exam.

Key Takeaways

• COC certification validates expertise in outpatient coding, increasing job opportunities and salary potential for medical coders.

• Preparing for the COC exam requires mastery of medical terminology, ICD-10-CM, and the Outpatient Prospective Payment System, alongside effective study techniques and materials.

• Maintaining COC certification entails earning a minimum of 100 continuing education units every five years, ensuring ongoing professional development in the outpatient coding field.

Understanding COC Certification

The Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) credential demonstrates proficiency in coding for outpatient services. This certification is essential for medical coders working within outpatient facilities or those aiming to focus on outpatient coding practices. With an increasing number of healthcare providers adopting models centered around outpatient care, the need for professionals holding a COC certification is experiencing significant growth. The growing demand for certified outpatient coding professionals is driven by more physicians transitioning from private practices to hospital employment, emphasizing the importance of this certification.

Taking and passing the COC exam proves one’s understanding of various payment systems pertinent to outpatient coding disciplines. The employment landscape forecasts an 8 percent increase from 2019 through 2029 in jobs requiring skilled medical coders, highlighting a strong demand for individuals who are certified.

Securing a COC credential opens doors to advantageous opportunities within the realm of medical coding. It sets up individuals with advanced knowledge necessary for excelling as specialized coders in today’s ever-growing healthcare environment that favors ambulatory health service delivery over traditional hospital-based care.

What is COC Certification?

The acronym COC refers to the Certified Outpatient Coder, a credential tailored for specialists in medical coding within outpatient facilities. Gaining this certification equips professionals with the necessary expertise to succeed on the AAPC COC exam that concentrates on medical coding pertaining to outpatient services. Understanding and implementing the correct procedures is crucial in outpatient coding to maximize reimbursement and maintain compliance with coding guidelines. Individuals who hold a COC play an essential role in delivering precise codes for treatments performed in settings like hospital clinics and other outpatient care locations.

Crucial to achieving this certificate is mastery of the Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS), imperative for executing accurate billing and reimbursement processes related to outpatient care. The possession of a COC certifies that coders have adept command over the intricate details specific to outdoor patient medical code work—an area experiencing growing demand due primarily because physicians are increasingly affiliating themselves with hospitals as opposed to operating independent practices.

Those employed within various ambulatory environments such as emergency rooms or day surgery centers find particular value in obtaining this certification. Armed with the knowledge and skills conferred by becoming certified, these coders can substantially elevate their performance level contributing significantly within their respective healthcare teams.

Who Should Get COC Certified?

Earning a COC certification significantly boosts job prospects, as potential employers often prefer candidates who possess recognized qualifications. This particular credential is well-suited for medical coders seeking to focus on outpatient coding or those looking to ascend to higher roles within their organizations. Knowledge regarding coding practices that apply to facility services is crucial for those holding COC certification, especially as more healthcare providers transition to hospital settings.

Medical coders with a Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) designation have access to employment across various healthcare environments, such as hospitals and outpatient settings, ambulatory surgical centers, specialized clinics, and doctors’ offices. Roles typically held by individuals with the COC credential include positions like Outpatient Coder, Coding Auditor, Coding Educator, and Supervisor/Manager of Coding.

For medical coders dedicated to progressing in their field and opening doors to numerous career opportunities, there’s value in pursuing the Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) certification.

Benefits of COC Certification

Certification in outpatient coding, particularly COC certification, is becoming increasingly popular as a greater number of physicians move from private practices to hospital affiliations. This specific credential demonstrates expertise in the realm of outpatient coding and encompasses an understanding of payment classifications along with Medicare systems. Professionals who attain this certification usually command higher salaries than those without it, opening doors to roles that offer more substantial compensation.

As medical coders achieve higher credentials, their earning potential tends to rise accordingly. This underscores the importance attributed to specialized education within the field. By securing COC certification, individuals not only bolster their professional reputation, but also pave the way for heightened job satisfaction and enhanced career stability.

Career Opportunities

Mastery of ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II coding systems is essential, as they are extensively utilized for both outpatient and inpatient coding scenarios. Professionals holding the Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) credential experience substantial demand within a range of healthcare environments such as hospitals, day surgery centers, specialized clinics, and doctors’ offices. This certification paves the way to various positions including that of an Outpatient Coder, Coding Auditor, Coding Educator or even a Supervisor/Manager in coding.

Holding this certification broadens professional opportunities and enhances job marketability. As the landscape of healthcare continuously shifts forward with technological advancements, there remains a steadfast need for proficient outpatient coders. Consequently, possessing COC credentials substantially aids individuals aiming for upward mobility in their career trajectory.

Increased Salary Potential

Medical coders who have acquired the COC certification earn an average of $51,980 annually, which stands out as being considerably higher than the $45,253 average salary earned by those with CPC credentials. The variance in compensation can be attributed to the advanced skills and specialized knowledge inherent to certified outpatient coders.

Those holding a Certified Outpatient (COC) credential not only achieve greater financial rewards, but also receive increased professional esteem and confidence from their colleagues. On average, individuals possessing a COC certification see their earning potential rise to about $58,822. This demonstrates that obtaining such certifications can markedly boost one’s income prospects.

Preparing for the COC Exam

To successfully prepare for the COC exam, candidates must have a comprehensive grasp of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems. These areas are essential to gain the necessary qualifications for certification.

Selecting efficient study resources and methods is critical for excelling in this examination.

Recommended Study Materials

Candidates looking to prepare for the COC certification have the convenience of self-directed, round-the-clock online courses. This Outpatient Course is complete with continuous online access, entry to BHAT®. Cave, complementary ancillary courses, coaching call options and a range of review blitzes. With a generous 9-month validity period for these materials, students are afforded sufficient time to engage in extensive preparation.

Included in this course package is an invaluable ICD-10-CM Review Blitz valued at $149 free of charge which facilitates a deeper grasp of diagnostic coding. Alongside this digital offering stands the requirement for a physical textbook that reinforces structured learning through clear and simple instructional methods designed specifically to demystify complicated coding concepts.

Those preparing for their exams can take advantage of the COC Review Blitz course priced at $189. It encompasses an exhaustive suite of review materials tailored toward successful certification completion.

Effective Study Techniques

Practicing responding to questions within a set time frame can enhance speed and aid in mastering time management for the COC exam. This particular exam includes 15 questions that zero in on the examinee’s proficiency with ICD-10-CM diagnostic coding.

In order to maximize study sessions, individuals aiming to take the test should employ strategies for managing their time efficiently while concentrating on topics that require additional attention. By doing so, they not only deepen their understanding but also gain assurance in navigating through the format of the COC examination.

Practice Exams

Engaging in practice exams is an essential aspect of preparing for your COC certification exam, as they help you become accustomed to the layout and style of the actual certification test. Through these practice tests, examinees can pinpoint both their strong suits and areas needing improvement before sitting for the real examination.

Heeding advice derived from results on practice exams enables candidates to tailor their study schedule more effectively. Taking multiple mock exams aids in honing time management capabilities, guaranteeing that individuals are able to finish the entire exam within the given timeframe.

COC Exam Prep Courses and Resources

Preparing for the Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) exam requires a comprehensive understanding of medical coding principles, practices, and regulations. To help you prepare, here are some COC exam prep courses and resources:

• AAPC COC Exam Prep Course: This course is meticulously designed to help you prepare for the COC exam. It covers essential topics such as ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding. The structured curriculum ensures that you gain a thorough understanding of the coding systems and their applications in outpatient settings.

• COC Exam Review Blitz: This intensive review course provides a comprehensive overview of the COC exam content. It includes practice exams and quizzes to help you assess your knowledge and identify areas that need improvement. The review blitz is an excellent way to reinforce your understanding and boost your confidence before the exam.

• Medical Coding Certification Exam Prep: This course offers a detailed review of medical coding principles and practices, including ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding. It is designed to provide a solid foundation in medical coding, making it an invaluable resource for those preparing for the COC certification exam.

• COC Exam Prep Books: Several COC exam prep books are available that provide a comprehensive review of the exam content. These books include practice exams and quizzes, allowing you to test your knowledge and track your progress. They are a great supplement to your study plan, offering detailed explanations and practical tips for mastering the material.

By utilizing these resources, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the COC exam, enhancing your chances of success and paving the way for a rewarding career as an outpatient coder.

Key Areas Covered in the COC Exam

The certification exam for COC includes a hundred questions in a multiple choice format that must be completed within four hours. This exam covers limited topics, demanding an extensive understanding of each one, such as medical terminology and the environment of outpatient settings.

For the purpose of this certification test, only sanctioned code books are permitted. These include the CPT® Professional Edition from AMA and up-to-date versions of both ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II publications.

Medical Terminology

Understanding and coding medical records correctly requires a solid grasp of medical terminology. It is crucial for individuals to have an extensive knowledge base in this area to excel at coding practices.

During the exam, there are seven distinct questions aimed at evaluating the candidates’ comprehension of medical terminology pertaining to all bodily systems. This assessment guarantees that coders possess the capability to accurately decipher and utilize medical terms within their professional tasks.

ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II Procedure Codes

Effective coding and billing for outpatient services hinge on a thorough understanding of ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II diagnostic codes. The COC exam covers the correct application of HCPCS Level II procedure and supply codes. These codes are essential components of the COC exam, with expertise in them being vital for precise reimbursement-related coding.

Outpatient Prospective Payment System

The Medicare-established Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) is designed to standardize reimbursement and billing processes for services delivered in outpatient settings. By grouping services into Ambulatory Payment Classifications (APCs), OPPS sets the stage for determining payment rates that correspond with the specific service rendered.

For COC candidates, a thorough grasp of the OPPS is essential since it sheds light on reimbursement strategies prevalent within outpatient environments that are typically included in their exam scope. Possessing this knowledge not only improves coding precision but also aids in refining revenue cycle operations at facilities offering outpatient care.

COC Exam Format and Content

The COC exam is a multiple-choice exam that consists of 100 questions. The exam is divided into several sections, each designed to test your knowledge and skills in medical coding. Here’s a breakdown of the exam format and content:

• ICD-10-CM Coding: This section includes 40 questions focused on your ability to accurately assign diagnostic codes using the ICD-10-CM system. Mastery of ICD-10-CM is crucial for ensuring correct coding and billing for patient encounters in a hospital or outpatient setting.

• CPT Coding: Comprising 30 questions, this section evaluates your proficiency in using the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes. These codes are essential for documenting medical procedures and services provided in outpatient settings.

• HCPCS Level II Coding: This section includes 20 questions that test your knowledge of the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Level II codes. These codes are used for billing various medical services, supplies, and equipment.

• Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS): The final section consists of 10 questions focused on the OPPS. This system, established by Medicare, standardizes reimbursement and billing processes for services delivered in outpatient settings. Understanding OPPS is vital for accurate coding and revenue cycle management in outpatient facilities.

The COC exam is designed to test your ability to assign correct diagnostic and procedure codes for patient encounters in a hospital or outpatient setting. By familiarizing yourself with the exam format and content, you can better prepare for the certification exam and enhance your chances of success.

COC vs. CPC: What’s the Difference?

The Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) and Certified Professional Coder (CPC) are two different medical coding certifications offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). While both certifications demonstrate expertise in medical coding, there are some key differences between the two:

• COC: The COC certification is specific to outpatient coding and demonstrates expertise in coding for outpatient facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. This certification is ideal for those who wish to specialize in outpatient coding and work in settings that focus on ambulatory care.

• CPC: The CPC certification is more general and demonstrates expertise in coding for a variety of healthcare settings, including physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient facilities. This certification is suitable for those who want a broader range of coding opportunities and the flexibility to work in different healthcare environments.

Both certifications are highly respected in the medical coding field and can significantly enhance your career prospects. However, the choice between COC and CPC depends on your career goals and the specific coding environment you wish to work in.

Understanding the Difference Between COC and CPC Medical Coders

COC and CPC medical coders are both certified medical coders, but they have different areas of expertise. Understanding these differences can help you determine which certification aligns best with your career aspirations.

• COC Medical Coders: COC medical coders specialize in outpatient coding and have a deep understanding of the outpatient prospective payment system (OPPS). They are skilled in assigning correct diagnostic and procedure codes for patient encounters in a hospital or outpatient setting. Their expertise is particularly valuable in outpatient facilities such as clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, and outpatient hospitals.

• CPC Medical Coders: CPC medical coders have a broader range of expertise and can code for a variety of healthcare settings, including physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient facilities. They are proficient in assigning correct diagnostic and procedure codes for patient encounters across different settings, making them versatile and adaptable to various coding environments.

Both COC and CPC medical coders play crucial roles in the healthcare industry, ensuring accurate coding and billing for patient encounters. The choice between the two certifications depends on your desired area of specialization and the type of healthcare setting you wish to work in.

Exam Day Tips

It is recommended that individuals should secure ample sleep the night prior to their exam, and consume a wholesome morning meal to sustain concentration and energy levels. It’s beneficial for test-takers to be punctual in reaching the testing site, allowing ample time for acclimatization which aids in stress reduction.

Prior to commencing with the examination, taking a brief period for deep breathing and recalling one’s preparedness can significantly alleviate nervous tension.

What to Bring

It is imperative to present a valid, government-issued photo identification upon arrival at the exam center. Temporary or digital forms of ID will be rejected. Ensuring you have all essential items for the COC certification exam is crucial for a seamless testing process.

Being equipped with all necessary materials can aid examinees in concentrating on their certification exam and reduce undue stress.

Time Management During the Exam

Allocating about 2.4 minutes per question can help ensure that all questions are addressed within the four-hour time limit. Candidates should consider answering easier questions first and saving challenging ones for later to maximize efficiency.

Staying Calm and Focused

Candidates are advised to pause for a brief period to take deep breaths and compose themselves, which reinforces their readiness before they begin the exam. Remaining calm is crucial as controlled breathing can diminish nervousness and aid in maintaining concentration.

It may be beneficial for candidates to peruse the answer options before looking at the related questions, as this strategy could lead them to feel more equipped and tranquil while taking the exam.

Post-Exam Steps

In order to maintain an active COC certification, it is necessary to provide a worksheet that records your professional endeavors every five years. This requirement ensures that you are continually engaged in professional growth by providing concrete proof of ongoing development at five-year intervals.

Maintaining your certification is indicative of a commitment to keeping abreast with the evolving standards within the industry.

Receiving Your Results

Candidates should anticipate obtaining their exam results in the My AAPC Account Dashboard 7-10 business days after taking the test. These results are typically conveyed through email or via an online portal linked to the certifying body.

Next Steps After Passing

To ensure the validity and industry recognition of your COC certification, it is imperative to fulfill a defined quota of continuing education units (CEUs) within a prescribed time frame. This continuous professional development not only serves to refresh your knowledge, but also underscores your dedication to maintaining expertise in outpatient coding.

Following the successful completion of the exam, individuals are expected to swiftly adhere to the established procedures for securing their COC certification. This includes providing evidence of completed continuing education credits and potentially remitting a renewal fee as part of upholding their certified status.

Retaking the Exam

Individuals who are unsuccessful in passing the COC exam must meticulously assess their performance to recognize which aspects require enhancement. It’s essential for them to scrutinize the questions that were answered incorrectly, as this will highlight deficiencies in their knowledge base. Creating an organized study schedule targeting these identified shortcomings is vital for efficient preparation.

Employing suggested learning resources specifically designed for the COC exam can significantly bolster one’s grasp of critical principles. Engaging with several practice exams is also beneficial, aiding candidates in becoming accustomed to the structure of the actual exam and boosting confidence, thus leading to improved results on subsequent attempts.

Maintaining Your COC Certification

Ensuring the validity of your COC certification is critical for maintaining professional integrity and keeping abreast of the latest developments in outpatient coding. To uphold this credential, you must accumulate a designated number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by engaging in approved professional development initiatives. The commitment to continual learning guarantees that your coding abilities stay up-to-date and effective within an industry known for its quick pace of change.

To successfully revalidate your certification, it is necessary to provide documentation verifying the CEUs you have obtained and fulfill this requirement according to set deadlines. By actively pursuing Education, not only do you bolster your potential for career advancement, but also demonstrate a steadfast dedication to achieving proficiency in the field of outpatient coding.

Continuing Education Requirements

Professionals holding COC certification are required to gather a defined amount of continuing education units (CEUs) within a five-year period. A total of at least 100 points must be collected from an array of activities over this duration in order to fulfill the continuous education prerequisites. Activities contributing towards these points may consist of engaging in workshops, finishing web-based courses, and being active in pertinent professional gatherings.

To adhere to the stipulations for ongoing education linked with COC certification, professionals must secure no fewer than 100 points by participating in professional endeavors that span at least two distinct classifications. It is vital for those certified to meticulously monitor their CEUs and partake consistently in educational opportunities as a means to preserve their certification status.

Recertification Process

The certification cycle for the Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) spans five years and mandates the submission of a professional activity worksheet to demonstrate adherence to credentialing criteria. The thorough review of this worksheet ensures compliance with established standards. Should you not provide the necessary documentation after several prompts, your COC may be forfeited.

Once you’ve successfully passed your outpatient coding examination, proceed by filling out the certification application form in order to obtain your credentials. Instructions on how to acquire your official certificate and refresh your coding qualifications will be provided upon achieving a passing score.

Achieving recognition in outpatient coding is reflective of earnest commitment and laborious effort on your part. It celebrates mastery within this field.

COC Certification Requirements

To become a certified outpatient coder (COC), you must meet the following requirements:

• Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent. This foundational education is necessary to ensure you have the basic skills required for further training in medical coding.

• Training: You must complete a medical coding training program that includes coursework in ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding. This training provides the essential knowledge and skills needed to accurately code medical procedures and diagnoses in outpatient settings.

• Experience: You must have at least one year of experience in medical coding, or you must complete a medical coding internship. Practical experience is crucial for applying your coding knowledge in real-world scenarios and gaining proficiency in coding practices.

• Exam: You must pass the COC exam, which is administered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). The exam tests your knowledge and skills in medical coding, including your ability to assign correct diagnostic and procedure codes for patient encounters in a hospital or outpatient setting.

By meeting these requirements, you can become a certified outpatient coder and enhance your career prospects in the field of medical coding. The COC certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to excellence in outpatient coding, making you a valuable asset to any healthcare organization.

Summary

In essence, pursuing a Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) certification is a judicious choice for medical coders aiming to focus on outpatient coding. This credential not only boosts career prospects and the potential for higher earnings, but also corroborates one’s proficiency in this essential sector. Preparation for the COC exam should involve selecting appropriate study resources, employing efficient study strategies, and engaging with practice exams to confirm thorough preparation.

To retain your COC certification, it is necessary to engage in continuous professional development and comply with recertification requirements. By dedicating yourself to ongoing education, you can keep your skills up-to-date and ensure that your certificate remains valid. Undertaking the journey toward COC certification offers significant benefits for your professional trajectory within the field of medical coding. Approach this endeavor with determination and begin working towards earning recognition as a certified outpatient coder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is COC certification?

Certification as a Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) confirms a person’s specialized knowledge in the field of medical coding for outpatient services.

For those aiming to showcase their skill level in coding practices specific to outpatient care, obtaining this certification is crucial.

Who should get COC certified?

Certification as a Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) is crucial for medical coders working in outpatient settings such as clinics and hospitals, since it considerably improves their job prospects and expands the scope of their professional options.

What are the benefits of COC certification?

COC certification leads to increased career opportunities, higher salary potential, and enhanced professional credibility. Certified professionals often earn more and are highly sought after in the healthcare sector.

How should I prepare for the COC exam?

In order to thoroughly prepare oneself for the COC exam, it’s crucial to concentrate on going through suggested study content, employing efficient studying methods and engaging in practice exams.

Making use of self-directed online courses and review sessions can greatly bolster your preparation efforts.

What are the continuing education requirements for maintaining COC certification?

Professionals holding COC certification must gather a minimum of 100 points from different continuing education activities over the span of five years to keep their certification valid.

Such a mandate guarantees that they continually progress and comply with established standards for credentialing.