A Note from the CCDS Coordinator: ACDIS announces policy and penalty changes for late CCDS recertification

by Penny Richards

Effective July 1, 2016, ACDIS will institute policy and penalty changes for late Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS) recertification.

ACDIS will continue to maintain a 45-day grace period from the date recertification is due for certification holders to submit their application and proof of continuing education credits.

After 45 days, ACDIS will mail a letter to the address on file, advising the CCDS holder that their recertification is overdue.

The credential will be suspended six months after the original recertification due date. Certification may be reactivated when the individual submits a successful application, pays the regular recertification fee and a $150 late fee. This must be completed within one year of the original recertification due date.

Certification will be revoked after one year if it is not recertified. The individual must take the exam again in order to hold the credential.

It is incumbent on the CCDS holder to know their recertification due date. ACDIS sends several email reminders to the email address on file but is not responsible for late, suspended, or revoked certifications if the CCDS holder did not update contact information with the ACDIS CCDS office or if emails were not delivered to or opened by the CCDS holder. Contact updates should be emailed to prichards@acdis.org. Inquiries to verify contact information on file or to ask about one’s CCDS recertification due date may be emailed to prichards@acdis.org.