This is what is listed on the website:
Due to the level of expertise required of medical coders, AAPC expects certified coders to be able to perform not only in an exam setting but also in the real world. In addition to passing the certification exam, coders will also be required to demonstrate on-the-job coding experience. Those who pass the CPC, COC (formerly CPC-H) and/or CPC-P exams but have not yet met this requirement will be designated as an Apprentice (CPC-A, CPC-H-A and/or CPC-P-A) on their certificate.
CPC-A, COC-A (formerly CPC-H-A), or CPC-P-A Status: Members with an Apprentice designation are still required to submit annual CEUs while completing the coding job requirement.
Requirements for Removal of Apprentice Designation:
To remove your apprentice designation via on-the-job experience, you must obtain and submit two letters of recommendation verifying at least two years of on-the-job experience (externships accepted) using the CPT?, ICD-9-CM, or HCPCS Level II code sets. One letter must be on letterhead from your employer*, the other may be from a co-worker. Experience includes time coding for a previous employer and prior to certification. Both letters are required to be signed and will need to outline your coding experience and amount of time in that capacity. Download our Apprentice Removal Template for easier submission. Letterhead and signatures are still required when using this template.
OR
Submit proof showing completion of at least 80 contact hours of a coding preparation course (not CEUs) AND one letter, on letterhead, signed from your employer verifying one year of on-the-job experience (externships accepted) using the CPT?, ICD-9-CM, or HCPCS Level II code sets.
Send proof of education in the form of a letter from an instructor on school letterhead stating you have completed 80 or more contact hours, a certificate/diploma stating at least 80 contact hours, or an unofficial school transcript.
Proof of education or experience isn?t necessary to sit for the exam. It should only be submitted (via fax or as a scanned attachment to an email) once ALL apprentice removal requirements have been met.
Please allow 2-4 weeks for processing.
* Employers can only verify time spent coding with their organization. Proof of experience letters may be from previous employers, current employers, or a combination of both.
AAPC
2480 South 3850 West, Suite B
Salt Lake City, UT 84120
Phone: 800-626-2633
Fax: 801-236-2258
Email:
apprenticeremovals@aapc.com