CCS Prep Workshop - Linda H. Donahue RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, CPC and Sandra Ryen CCS

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Riley

CCS Prep Workshop outlines the background of Linda H. Donahue and Sandra Ryen and introduces Certified Coding Specialists as professionals who classify diagnoses and procedures from patient records. The workshop explains where CCSs work, how coded data supports reimbursement and research, and why taking the CCS exam can drive employment, promotion, and professional growth. It also covers CCS certification considerations, success tips for the candidate guide and exam preparation resources, and key “Big 3” questions about eligibility, cost, and time.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages48

Reading Time2 h 1 min

AccessFree to download

Linda’s Bio and Sandy’s Bio

What are Certified Coding Specialists?

Where can a CCS Work?

Why Should You Take the CCS Exam

CCS Certification

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

“Big 3” Questions

CCS Prep Workshop Linda H. Donahue RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, CPC and Sandra Ryen CCS Linda’s Bio • [Graduated with A.S. in](Graduated with A.S. in) Health Information Technology from DCC in May 1996 • RHIT in 1996 • CCS‐P in 2002 • CPC in 2003 • CCS in 2005 • ICD‐10‐CM/PCS Approved AHIMA Trainer in 2009‐Present • Employed as HIT/Coding Instructor at DCC since 2001 Sandy’s Bio • Graduated with a CTS in Medical Coding from DCC in December 2011 • CPC‐A in 2012 • CCS in 2014 • Selected as Intern at Ochsner Health System before becoming an Inpatient Coder What are Certified Coding Specialists? CCSs are skilled in classifying medical data from patient records, generally in a hospital setting. These coding practitioners: • Review patients’records and assign alphanumeric codes for each diagnosis and procedure. • Possess expertise in the ICD-10-CM and CPT coding systems • Are knowledgeable about medical terminology, disease processes, and pharmacology. Where can a CCS Work? Different facilities and institutions make use of a CCSs' skills: • Hospitals and medical providers take the coded data created by CCSs to insurance companies—or to the government in the case of Medicare and Medicaid recipients—for reimbursement of expenses. • Researchers and public health officials also use this data to monitor patterns and explore new interventions. • They are considered coding experts! Why Should You Take the CCS Exam • $$$$$$$$$$$$ • Employment Opportunities • Better Job • Promotion • Professional Development • Want to promote yourself as a expert ICD‐ 10‐CM/PCS Coder CCS Certification [www.ahima.org/certification/ccs.aspx](www.ahima.org/certification/ccs.aspx) • Professionals experienced in coding inpatient and outpatient records should consider obtaining this certification. • You do not have to be a member of AHIMAto take this exam . • Discount to AHIMA Members . • CCS Candidate Guide Available Free Online. CCS Certification TIPS FOR SUCCESS • Read through the entire candidate guide! • Visit AHIMA’s exam preparation page at: [www.ahima.org/certification](www.ahima.org/certification) “Big 3” Questions Am I qualified to take this exam? How much does it cost? Time?

FAQs

What does a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) do?

A CCS classifies medical data from patient records by reviewing diagnoses and procedures and assigning alphanumeric codes, using systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT.

Where do CCSs typically work and how is their work used?

CCSs work in hospitals and medical provider settings, and their coded data is used by insurance companies or government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. Researchers and public health officials may also use this data to monitor patterns and explore interventions.

What are the key questions to address before taking the CCS exam?

The workshop highlights the “Big 3” questions: eligibility/qualification to take the exam, the exam cost, and the time required.

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Riley