The CPC® (Certified Professional Coder) exam is a tough series of questions designed to challenge would be medical coders to be proficient in the codes and symbols of the profession. It is only through intensive preparation that one can reasonably expect to get a passing mark on this exam. This article will provide everything you need to do just that.

How Is the CPC® Exam Structured?

The proctored CPC® exam contains 150 questions total. 130 of them are multiple choice, and the other 20 are pre-test questions that may appear on later versions of the exam. 5 hours and 40 minutes are allotted to complete the exam; however, many test takers find that they finish the test in less time.

The exam is open book, meaning that you are allowed to use approved manuals while taking the test. Just because the CPC® exam is open book does not mean you’ll be able to get by without studying. This challenging exam is such that you will need extensive preparation even with the manuals.

What Topics Are Covered?

The CPC® exam will test the proper application of the CPT®, HCPS Level II procedures and supply codes, as well as the ICD-9-CM codes that medical coders use when billing medical services to insurance companies. You will be evaluated on your knowledge of these codes and procedures, as well as the following subject areas:

Musculoskeletal System

Nervous System

Male/Female Genital

Anatomy and Physiology

Endocrine System

Digestive System

Maternity and Delivery

Pathology

Urinary System

Respiratory System

How Can I Best Prepare?