Certified Documentation Expert Inpatient

Certified Documentation Expert Inpatient (CDEI)® Certification

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Exam
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The Certified Documentation Expert Inpatient (CDEI) credential validates expertise in reviewing inpatient documentation for accuracy to support coding and clinical requirements. CDEI professionals provide feedback to providers to improve clinical documentation and facilitate ongoing documentation improvement to meet all requirements of the medical record. To become a CDEI, documentation professionals must demonstrate knowledge of pathophysiology, inpatient coding and billing guidelines, and healthcare payment models.

Exam format

100 multiple-choice questions

Two ways to take the exam

Choose to take the exam online at home with a live remote proctor, or on a computer at a testing center. Learn more about your exam options and how to prepare.

Time allowed

Exams are administered in one sitting, with four hours to complete the exam.

Equipment required for exam

Our live remote proctored exam requires a closed room free from distraction with window coverings, a reliable, high-speed internet connection, a computer, and an external webcam that can be positioned to show your face, hands, keyboard, and the area around the keyboard (about 10 inches).

Exams taken at a testing center do not require any special equipment from the test-taker.

Experience requirements

Must be able to demonstrate an understanding of the proper application of ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and quality measures. Examinees must also demonstrate knowledge of proper query procedures and effective communication for documentation improvement.

Clinical documentation improvement involves compliance to documentation requirements and effective communication with providers to improve documentation. CDEI candidates should undergo certification training and/or have experience in clinical documentation improvement.

Please be aware that this is a difficult, high-level examination and not intended for individuals with limited clinical documentation improvement background.

Approved code books

Current year books are highly recommended as code sets are updated annually. You may choose to utilize books from the preceding year, the current year, or a combination of both; however, only one copy of each book is allowed. 

Pricing

An exam purchase includes two exam attempts for $499.

What students are saying

  • Lamontica Alexander

    Testimonial

    It hasn't even been a year since I passed my exam and I've had 3 remote job offers, with no experience.

    Lamontica Alexander

  • Heather Bonaminio

    Testimonial

    Trust me when I say, coders are in demand. Many companies hire CPC-A you just have to find the right fit for you!

    Heather Bonaminio

  • Cheryl Tribley

    Testimonial

    I passed my test first time and was hired within a month with my CPC-A. It is possible!

    Cheryl Tribley

  • Emily Smith

    Testimonial

    I was hired shortly after I got my CPC-A, before I finished my associates degree.

    Emily Smith

A trained CDEI will demonstrate:

  • Expertise in reviewing medical documentation for accuracy

  • The ability to identify and communicate documentation deficiencies to providers to improve documentation for accurate coding

  • A sound knowledge of medical coding guidelines and regulations, including those specific to inpatient settings

  • A grasp of compliance and reimbursement concepts impacting the inpatient revenue cycle

  • A thorough understanding of anatomy, pathophysiology, and medical terminology necessary to correctly code using ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS

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