Certified Professional Medical Scribe (CPMS)® certification
The CPMS credential validates the professional’s ability to accurately record encounters performed by providers in an electronic health record. A professional medical scribe documents all the information obtained by the provider during the encounter including the patient history, the physical observations of the exam, the provider’s assessment, and the plan of care.
A medical scribe performs the administrative component of documentation to allow the provider to focus on the care of the patient. Scribes must be able to demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, components of the medical record, and requirements of documentation to support services.
Online exam
This exam will be administered and proctored online. Approved candidates will receive one free attempt.
Equipment required for online exam
A reliable internet connection and an external webcam that can be positioned to show your face, hands, keyboard, and the area around the keyboard (about 10 inches) are required.
Experience requirements
2 years of experience are required (can be a combination of medical experience and scribe experience). AAPC membership required upon selection. Space is limited.
Not ready yet? Take the self-paced CPMS certification training course and be three times more likely to pass on your first attempt.
Approved code books
ICD-10-CM (current year), any publisher
ICD-10-PCS (course year)
What students are saying
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
Testimonial
It's worth it I swear. Invest into it and it will reward you!
Joe Delgado
Testimonial
As a stay at home mom and homeschooling two kids, it was a challenge; but if I can do, so can you all.
Nilayana Sterling
Testimonial
I took the online AAPC course. It was full of useful information and I passed my test the first time.
Danielle Ledford
A trained CPMS will demonstrate:
Proficient knowledge of anatomy, components of the medical record, and requirements of documentation to support services
Knowledge of federal initiative requirements
An understanding of the essential elements of documenting a physician-patient encounter and E/M levels
Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities of medical personnel and billing practices
Rules associated with medico-legal risk mitigation
Familiarity with HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules
Knowledge of medical terminology and technical spelling