Prepare for the CPCD® exam

Take the CPCD Preparation Course and become a Certified Professional Coder in Dermatology.

Your success as a CPCD is dependent on your ability to prioritize the information presented to you and organize it in ways that allow you to problem-solve efficiently. The following preparation tips will help ensure that you’re fully prepared.

Make sure you meet the experience requirements

We strongly recommend that you have at least two years of experience in dermatology coding prior to sitting for the certification exam. Please be aware that these are difficult, high-level examinations not intended for individuals with little, limited, or no coding experience.

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Train with AAPC’s world-class curriculum

The surest way to prepare for the CPCD exam is to train with AAPC by enrolling in the CPCD Preparation Course. Designed by the creators of the exam, this course will ensure you receive an effective and comprehensive education covering proper use of all medical code sets you'll encounter on the exam.

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Test your knowledge before the exam

Diagnose your strengths and weaknesses. We highly recommend that you take one of the 50-question online practice exams to help you become familiar with the format and time constraints of the real test. Our practice tests accurately mirror the exam to ensure you are fully prepared on exam day.

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Diagnose and prioritize your focus areas

After you take your first practice exam, you’ll realize not all areas of CPCD curriculum require equal study time. Based on your diagnostic results and practice performance, we’ll recommend lessons and exercises at just the right level. Follow these recommendations to make the most of your practice time.

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Review the study guide and test-taking techniques

Designed to help you prepare for the exam, our official CPCD Certification Study Guide provides a comprehensive review of dermatology coding with practical examples, E/M guidelines, and questions that simulate the certification exam. It was developed by the same people who created the CPCD certification exam. Best of all, it provides testing tips for taking AAPC's CPCD exam.

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