Certified Hematology and Oncology Coder – CHONC (AAPC)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: October 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
Certified Hematology and Oncology Coder (CHONC) credential certifies individuals in their ability to accurately assign medical codes for surgical procedures and services within the field of hematology and oncology (blood disorders and cancer). This certification is a specialty credential for experienced coders and shows their superior level of expertise in the hematology and oncology coding field.
The CHONC credential may lead to career opportunities and higher paying jobs that uncertified coders may not be eligible for.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Ability to understand abstract physician notes
- Expertise in assigning accurate medical codes for hematology and oncology procedures and services
- Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy and physiology related to the field of hematology and oncology
- Familiarity with procedures within the specialty
- Knowledge of Medicare billing and coverage
- Knowledge of treatments for both cancer and blood disorders
Exam Objectives
- Ability to read and abstract physician office notes and operative notes to apply correct ICD-10-CM, CPT®, HCPCS Level II and modifier coding assignments
- Evaluation and management (both the 1995 and 1997 Documentation Guidelines)
- Rules and regulations of Medicare billing including (but not limited to) incident to, teaching situations, shared visits, consultations, Local Coverage Determinations (LCD), National Coverage Determinations (NCD) and global surgery
- Coding of surgical procedures performed by hematologists and oncologists and auxiliary staff such as chemotherapy administration, hydration services, therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic administration, bone marrow aspiration, bone marrow biopsies, venipuncture, vaccinations, therapeutic phlebotomy, etc.
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy and physiology
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
- Prerequisites: 2 years of anesthesia and pain management coding experience highly recommended; AAPC membership required; 3 manuals allowed during testing (CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II)
- Questions: 150
- Time: 340 minutes
- Cost: $299
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 2 years
- View Certification Guidelines and Handbook
Other relevant details: NA
CHONC (AAPC) Careers
Certified Hematology and Oncology Coder Careers
Jobs you can get with a CHONC (AAPC) certification (additional requirements may apply):
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the medical records coder shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $40,350*
National average per hour: $19.40*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
CEMC (AAPC) Training
Exam Preparation
- Review the exam study guide
- Complete the CHONC practice exam
- Review CPT, ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II coding manuals
- Review the AAPC recommended E/M Audit Worksheet
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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