Certified Family Practice Coder (CFPC)

The CFPC examination is a 150 question, five hour and forty minute exam. This exam covers CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-9-CM volumes I and II. Examinees will be expected to have the ability to read, understand, and abstract pertinent information from office and procedure notes and apply the correct ICD-9, CPT, and HCPCS codes. They will also be tasted on their knowledge of both 1995 and 1997 E/M documentation guidelines, Medicare rules regarding MLPs and Resident attestation statements, shared visits, consultations, and global surgury rules. In addition examinees should be able to display correct modifier usage, know common medical terminology and anatomy and physiology, and procedures commonly performed in physician offices such as venipuncture and injections.

Individuals who wish to obtain the CFPC are encouraged to have prior education and experience, but it is not required.In addition the AAPC recommends that individuals purchase the CFPC study guide and practice exam.

Although the CFPC credential is not one of the top two coding credentials sought after it is a great compliment to existing credentials. Individuals holding dual credentials (Ex. CPC and CFPC) have marked themselves as experts in two areas and gain a competitive edge over individuals holding single credentials.