A medical billing and coding certificate is different from a medical billing and coding certification in a number of ways. First, a medical billing and coding certificate is earned from a college or institution of higher learning by taking courses as part of a dedicated program. By passing these courses and earning your certificate, you can develop your capabilities in performing medical billing and coding tasks.
A medical billing and coding certification on the other hand, such as the CPC, CCA or CCS, is a professional credential awarded by a third-party organization. It helps demonstrate your knowledge of medical billing and coding topics and is earned after you have passed an exam and met any other necessary requirements.
Beyond these definitions, there are also differences in the process of earning them. A medical billing and coding certificate requires you to earn a certain number of credit hours by taking medical billing and coding classes, among other courses and training. During these classes you'll have the opportunity to develop your understanding of how to apply and perform particular aspects of medical billing and coding.
A medical billing and coding certification, by contrast, does not actually teach you about medical billing and coding. Instead, it tests your knowledge of what you have learned from taking classes or by completing a certificate program.
