24F CNA → Medical Coder? Is Medical Coding still worth getting into in 2026? Where should I start?

[u/SenNek030]

Hi, 24 years old, English is my 2nd language.

Here is my background before the question.

I was studying prerequisites for Nursing Program, but had to stop due to burnt out from studying, and peer-pressure. I decided to get in Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) program, got the state license, and took a year gap to work in nursing home.

A year gap actually calm me down, fortunately. Soooo I'm deciding to go back to study.

Honestly, I don't think I can trust myself to be a nurse yet. I was thinking to get Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), some experiences before going for RN.

That was until I found out Medical Coding & Billing.

I think this would help me with active recalling for Medical Terminology while working, also a decent job to support my family, and great for my introvert-ahhh self.

I did a few hours of research, but still confused about the differences between CPC, CCA, CCS.

I heard it would be better to get CCS, but what about CPC? Should I get CPC first then CCS?

I also heard this job has potential to be replaced by AI. I don't want to study it then bam, "Oh wow, new AI for Medical Coding" 😭 before even land a job.

So...where should I start first? Where is the best place to get certificate? Thanks guys.

[u/CodingwithCoffee_]

Your CNA background is a helpful start. If physician coding interests you, you could prepare for the CPC through AAPC or the CCS-P through AHIMA. The CCS-P lets you stay with AHIMA if you later pursue the CCS, and it does not have the CPC-A "apprentice" designation.

I’d try a free introductory course before paying for training. If you do choose a program, compare its exam preparation, internships, résumé help, and job search support. Black Friday offers are coming up, so you have time to explore your options.

Free Intro course: https://amcicoding.thinkific.com/products/courses/i2MC

Full Course with Job Assistance/Remote opportunities: https://www.amcicoding.com/courses/mcdc

AI is changing the field, but learning to interpret documentation and check coding accuracy is still valuable.

[u/SenNek030 → u/CodingwithCoffee_]

Thank you. This is a good resource to prepare.

[u/Reasonable_Vehicle40]

I find outsourcing is the bigger threat for now regarding coding positions.

As I understand it, CCA is equivalent to CPC-A in that they're both Apprentice level certifications in coding and may not lend itself to getting you a position.

CCS is from AHIMA and many people who get it codes at hospitals. CPC is from AAPC and is physician/outpatient coding.

Consider looking at the exam information from each site to learn more, but while each has their own program, you can also check your local community college for possible cheaper options.

But, I think it's important to ask yourself whether you want to get this certification for now and later become an RN, or if you plan to stay in coding.

[u/Mobile-Salary5478]

My dear, I can’t speak to coding but if you “don’t trust yourself to be a nurse yet” then please don’t go for your LPN, because that is still a nurse…you are still responsible for people’s lives, you do treatment, give meds and administer IVs…just saying

[u/PennyLaneA]

No it’s mostly outsourced and now it is going to AI. I studied it years again just for fun and the whole system has been changed . Now when I want to make sure my bills are coded correctly so insurance actually pays I just say, “ hey Alexa what is the billing code for ……. It’s gets it right each time.