Prepare for your medical coding job interview or AAPC CPC® assessment with 50+ expert-answered interview questions. Covers ICD-10-CM, CPT®, HCPCS, E/M coding, modifiers, compliance, and career guidance.
Medical coding is the process of translating healthcare diagnoses, procedures, medical services, and equipment into universal alphanumeric codes (ICD-10-CM, CPT®, HCPCS Level II). These codes are used for insurance claims, billing, and data analysis.
ICD-10-CM codes represent the WHY of a patient encounter — the diagnosis or reason for the visit. CPT® codes represent the WHAT — the procedures, services, or treatments performed. Both are required on most medical claims.
The CPC® (Certified Professional Coder) is the gold-standard certification for outpatient medical coders, issued by the AAPC. It requires passing a 100-question, 4-hour open-book exam and is recognised globally by hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies.
Evaluation and Management (E/M) codes are CPT® codes used to report patient office visits, hospital admissions, and consultations. They are the highest-volume codes in outpatient billing and carry the most weight on the CPC® exam. Mastery of E/M coding is essential for any coder.
Modifiers are two-character codes appended to CPT® or HCPCS codes to provide additional information about a service. Common modifiers include -25 (significant, separately identifiable E/M), -59 (distinct procedural service), -51 (multiple procedures), and -22 (increased procedural services).
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