The Certified Documentation Expert Outpatient (CDEO®) credential validates expertise in reviewing outpatient documentation for accuracy to support coding, quality measures, and clinical requirements. CDEO 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 CDEO, documentation professionals must demonstrate knowledge of pathophysiology, coding and billing guidelines, and quality measures.
The AAPC's 2018 Salary Survey revealed that obtaining a CDEO can help business of healthcare professionals earn more than the average medical coder who earns $51,426 annually. Obtaining the CDEO credential can help you to earn more, averaging at $69,029 annually. There is potential to earn more, depending on experience and demographics. To calculate the average CDEO salary in your area, based on your job responsibility, click here.
The examination consists of questions regarding the review of outpatient medical records for accuracy and correct application of CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II codes, and quality measures. Examinees must also demonstrate knowledge on proper query procedures and effective communication for documentation improvement.
Electronic devices with an on/off switch (cell phones, smart phones, tablets, etc.) are not allowed into the examination room. Failure to comply with this policy may result in disqualification of your exam.
Any officially published errata for these manuals may also be used. No other manuals are allowed. Each code set is updated annually; it is essential that examinees use the current calendar year's coding manuals when taking the certification exam.
Due to the advantages of additional information and/or ease of use, the following books cannot be used during the exam:
While there is no experience requirement, we strongly recommend that the candidate have at least two years of experience in clinical documentation improvement.
Please be aware that this is a difficult, high-level examination which is not meant for individuals with little, limited or no clinical documentation improvement
The CDEOâ„¢ examination is recommended for a certified coder, medical record auditor or clinical documentation improvement professional who has experience reviewing documentation for outpatient services and extensive knowledge of coding and quality measure reporting. Clinical documentation improvement involves compliance to documentation requirements and effective communication with providers to improve documentation.
Membership is required to be renewed annually and 36 Continuing Education Units (CEU's) must be submitted every two years for verification and authentication of expertise. For CEU requirements please see our CEU Information page.