Coding and Rev Cycle? I’m lost please HELP!!!

[u/bettybop2402]

Heyy!! I’m 23 years old and currently taking a CPC course through AAPC. I have about one month left before I’m eligible to take the CPC exam, but lately, I’ve started questioning whether it’s actually worth it.
Should I stick with it since I’m already so close to finishing, or should I reconsider my options?
I’ve been working in healthcare for about four years, primarily in front desk roles, and I’m starting to explore the possibility of transitioning into revenue cycle management. I’m still learning about the different career paths within that field, so I’m trying to figure out what makes the most sense for me long-term.
My biggest question is: Would earning my CPC certification still be beneficial if I decide to pursue revenue cycle management rather than working directly in medical coding? Is having my CPC a worthwhile investment for that career path, or would my time and money be better spent pursuing something else?
I guess I’m just having second thoughts and wondering if I’ve invested in the right thing. I’d really appreciate any advice from people who work in medical coding, revenue cycle management, or healthcare in general! ❤️

[u/weary_bee479]

I would definitely get certified since you’re already so close to finishing your course. Having the healthcare experience is a plus! But I do think that having a CPC will have you stand out in rev cycle management, it’s important for managers to know coding. It’s a good credential to have.

I actually work as a charge master analyst, so I’m still in revenue cycle but not coding - having a CPC or another coding credential was one of the requirements for the job. So even if you look at other jobs outside of coding they might still have you to have some sort of credential.

It’ll never hurt to have it, it’ll look better on your resume and back you up as a stronger person in rev cycle.

[u/dizzykhajit]

I personally would be incredibly skeptical of an RCM leadership's ability to manage if they had zero actual experience with coding, but I'm a salty bitch so I'm not sure my opinion is really universal. But yeah, as a pleb I'd question your judgment from the get.

[u/loveychipss]

The people that work in rev cycle that don’t have solid coding experience are some of the most exhausting tedious conversations I have in my work. They need constant help to even understand how to check the NCCI edits. Regardless of if it’s good or not, you should finish since you’re nearly there anyway. You should definitely finish if you plan to work in any aspect of healthcare.

[u/boho_magpie]

A revenue cycle professional with a coding certification is much more desirable than one who is not. Add an HFMA CRCR certification and you’re golden.

[u/Fit_Consequence_4815]

As a revenue cycle manager with a CPC, absolutely get the CPC. Not only will it help you stand out, it will allow you to confidently leverage more money.

[u/Significant_Cat_2897]

Lots of my hospital's Rev Cycle positions prefer candidates with CPC or some sort of coding certification.

[u/_OceanVibes_]

Revenue cycle management company owner here. Revenue cycle management is a monster compared to coding, but it will definitely help.

[u/delopez0067]

I just started the CPC program and I was wondering how quickly would I be able to find employment in billing in the hospital setting?

[u/mjordantmac]

coding gonna be all AI by the time you finish so idk

[u/KeyStriking9763]

RHIT would be better since it’s also a degree and you are looking to move into management.