This test is not about knowing 'how' to code. It's about knowing how to validate the correct answer.
Know the content of all three of your books, and make sure you have the current year edition. You don't have to have the codes memorized, but know what's available in all of the sections, appendices and charts/graphs. Outside-of-the-box thinking is critical. I remember taking my COC and there was a medical term I didn't recognize asking where on the body it was located. I quickly looked up the term in CPT's index, and it brought me to the musculoskeletal section, so I was able to answer the question correctly. Pay attention to HCPCS II.....there's a lot of useful information in there.
These are multiple-choice answers, so one answer is correct. Rule out at first the ones you know are not correct, and then research the ones you suspect are.
Don't 'code' when doing this test. If the question asks about CPT codes, go directly to those codes in the book, and read the information to validate the correct answer. Don't start at the index, like we're taught when coding.
If there are multiple components to a question, narrow down the answer with the piece of information that's easiest to confirm. For example, if all four answers include a CPT code, two diagnoses and a modifier, first narrow it down by the modifiers or
diagnosis codes that you know are easier to confirm.
Know the general coding rules for each section and understand correct ICD-10-CM assignment. If you're going to 'memorize' anything, have a solid knowledge of the instructional notes.
Cut to the chase when reading operative notes in the exam. You don't necessarily need to know that sterile technique was used....so skip over that part and get yourself to the procedure description.
Take several practice exams--as many as you can, and time yourself. It's worth the money to purchase them from AAPC as many of the practice questions will show up on the exam, and you'll have an idea of what to expect with the test.
This exam isn't intentionally 'tricky'. But it's designed to show that you know how to find the correct answer, which is exactly what you're going to be expected to do on the job. Good Luck.
