A Note from the CCDS Coordinator: What are you waiting for?

by Penny Richards

If you’ve been thinking about taking the Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS) exam, there’s no better time than right now to get started.

Applicants flooded our office with paperwork and phone calls as CDI specialists raced to take the exam before the addition of ICD-10-CM/PCS and quality-related questions which took place on January 18. Those first two weeks of 2016 broke the CCDS record books with 234 people sitting for the exam.

Since then, the number of people scheduling an exam slowed, particularly in the early months of 2016 as folks worried over the unknown aspects of the exam and the new code set.

But there’s good news. The passing rate actually increased over the previous version. The passing rate for those who took the exam for the first time this 79.1% in June, 80% in July, and 74.4% in August.

What accounts for the improved pass rates? It’s hard to say since we’re only a few months into administering the new exam. If I had to guess, though, I would say it’s due in part to the new CCDS Exam Study Guide, which includes a practice exam. But I’d also guess that it’s also partly due to diligent preparation and the strong desire your colleagues have to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise.

What do your credentialed colleagues have to say about their certification? Here’s what they told us in a recent survey:

• Having it adds credibility
• It demonstrates I am more knowledgeable
• It shows dedication and professionalism
• It says to potential employers that I have advanced knowledge
• It demonstrates that I put forth the effort to be knowledgeable about the work I perform
• It promotes the highest standards in our industry

Good reasons, every one.

Are you ready to demonstrate your proficiency? Are you ready to be a leader? If you meet the exam qualification requirements, there’s no better time than today to get started. Download the Exam Candidate’s Handbook and read the eligibility requirements on page 7. Read the exam content outline starting on page 15.

Send me your application when you’re ready. I can’t wait to send your certificate and lapel pin and add your name to the list of clinical documentation professionals who are proud to call themselves a CCDS.