✅ What is CCS®?

The Certified Coding Specialist (CCS®) credential recognizes expertise in analyzing clinical records and accurately assigning ICD‑10‑CM, ICD‑10‑PCS, and CPT® codes. CCSs help keep hospital billing accurate, compliant, and data-rich for reimbursement and health care delivery.

🎯 Who Should Pursue CCS?

✅ Coders with experience in both inpatient and outpatient coding
✅ Those who may already hold CCA® or have a strong coding foundation
✅ Anyone looking to specialize further in hospital coding

📋 Eligibility Requirements

✅ An accredited HIM degree (RHIT, RHIA) or health information diploma
✅ Completion of AHIMA-approved coding courses
✅ Prior credentials (like CCA®)
✅ Or related coding experience

ℹ Check “Prepare for CCS Exam” on ahima.org for updated guidelines.

💵 Exam Fees

✅ Member price: US $399
✅ Student member price: US $299
✅ Non-member price: US $399
(Prices are in USD; may vary by membership or region)

🗃️ Code Books Allowed in Exam

✅ ICD‑10‑CM (2025)
✅ ICD‑10‑PCS (2025)
✅ CPT® (2025) Professional Edition (ISBN-controlled)

🧠 Exam Content & Format

The exam covers 5 key content areas:

✅ Coding Knowledge & Skills (~52%)
(POA, principal diagnosis, sequencing, modifiers, MCC/CC, reimbursement)

✅ Coding Documentation (~10%)
(Record review, discrepancy resolution)

✅ Provider Queries (~9%)
(Determining compliant practices)

✅ Regulatory Compliance & Billing (~27%)
(Inpatient vs outpatient, federal regulations)

✅ Information Technology (new domain)
(EHR, data integrity, coding software)

📆 60‑Day Study Plan with Practice Tests

Weeks 1–2: Foundations
✅ Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology
✅ ICD‑10‑CM/PCS fundamentals
✅ Practice code look-ups

Weeks 3–4: Coding Techniques
✅ Procedure coding, sequencing, modifiers
✅ MCC/CC, DRG relationships
✅ Drill practice problems under timed conditions

Weeks 5–6: Advanced Concepts
✅ Documentation review, compliant queries
✅ Inpatient vs outpatient regulations
✅ Reimbursement guidelines

Week 7: IT & Workflow Tools
✅ EHR and coding software practice
✅ Data integrity checks, error resolution

Week 8: Final Review & Mock Tests
✅ Take 2–3 full-length practice exams under timed conditions (4 hours each)
✅ Review weak areas and coding guidelines
✅ Final readiness check

📝 Practice Test Sources:

✅ AHIMA’s own prep exams
✅ Reputable third-party mock exams
✅ Textbooks and study guides from ahima.org

🔁 Next Steps

✅ Confirm your eligibility with AHIMA
✅ Become a member for discounts and resources
✅ Enroll in CCS® prep courses (if applicable)
✅ Acquire your 2025 code books well in advance
✅ Follow the 60‑day study plan with practice exams