Certified Professional Medical Scribe (CPMS)® certification
The CPMS credential validates the professional’s ability to accurately record encounters performed by providers in an electronic health record. A professional medical scribe documents all the information obtained by the provider during the encounter including the patient history, the physical observations of the exam, the provider’s assessment, and the plan of care.
A medical scribe performs the administrative component of documentation to allow the provider to focus on the care of the patient. Scribes must be able to demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, components of the medical record, and requirements of documentation to support services.
Exam format
40 multiple-choice questions and 3 cases
Two ways to take the exam
Choose to take the exam online at home with a live remote proctor, or on a computer at a testing center. Learn more about your exam options and how to prepare.
Time allowed
Exams are administered in one sitting, with four hours to complete the exam.
Equipment required for exam
Our live remote proctored exam requires a closed room free from distraction with window coverings, a reliable, high-speed internet connection, a computer, and an external webcam that can be positioned to show your face, hands, keyboard, and the area around the keyboard (about 10 inches).
Exams taken at a testing center do not require any special equipment from the test-taker.
Experience requirements
We strongly recommend you have a high-level knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and pathophysiology. If you don’t have medical experience or working knowledge of these subjects, we offer prerequisite courses to prepare you for certification training. Learn more.
Approved code books
No physical references are allowed. All necessary materials are available within the exam platform.
Maintaining your certification
To maintain your credential, you must maintain your AAPC annual membership, and earn 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years.
Pricing
The cost of the CPMS exam is $399 for one attempt, or $499 for two exam attempts.
What students are saying
It hasn't even been a year since I passed my exam and I've had 3 remote job offers, with no experience.
Lamontica Alexander
It's worth it I swear. Invest into it and it will reward you!
Joe Delgado
As a stay at home mom and homeschooling two kids, it was a challenge; but if I can do, so can you all.
Nilayana Sterling
I took the online AAPC course. It was full of useful information and I passed my test the first time.
Danielle Ledford
A trained CPMS will demonstrate:
Proficient knowledge of anatomy, components of the medical record, and requirements of documentation to support services
Knowledge of federal initiative requirements
An understanding of the essential elements of documenting a physician-patient encounter and E/M levels
Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of medical personnel and billing practices
Rules associated with medico-legal risk mitigation
Familiarity with HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules
Knowledge of medical terminology and technical spelling