RN coding training/certification online

[Peahead]

Hello,

I am wondering if anyone has done any online training/testing to become a certified RN coder? What training website did you go through? There is so much info. on the web and it is hard to tell if it is legit or not. I see 2 year degree programs for someone with no education but read that if you are already an RN all you need is the training and to take the test. Any information, especially from someone who completed online training, passed the exam and is working would be greatly appreciated! I am a stay at home who is looking for telecommute work from home as a RN coder, of course once I complete training and the test to become certified.

Thank you!

Rachel:D

[seasonednurse78]

Rachel,

AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) and AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) are the only two organizations whose credentials are recognized nationwide. Both offer online training and certification testing at selected test sites. You can find out more by visiting their websites.

Be forewarned that in order to obtain an "at-home" position, one must be certified and have anywhere from 2 to 5 years or more of active coding experience on-site, mainly in an acute care setting (eg. hospital).

I am an LPN nearing completion of one of the coding programs, and even though the training is very thorough and intense, it is only the basics toward learning coding. One usually requires a couple of years of hands-on coding experience to become proficient.

Hope this helps.

[Kim Lykes]

This is helpful for me. Thank you for the direction.