How is the CIC (Certified Inpatient Coder) certification different from CPC?

Both the Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC) and the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) are important certifications in the medical coding field but differ in a number of areas. A short comparison is given as follows:


1. Scope of Knowledge  

  • CIC focuses on inpatient coding, which involves coding for patients admitted to a hospital.  
  • CPC deals with outpatient coding, mainly in physician offices, clinics, and outpatient care settings.

2. Coding Systems  

  • CIC emphasizes ICU 10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and other hospital-specific coding systems.  
  • CPC is more directed toward CPT, ICU-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes that are used in outpatient care.

CPC certification course in Kannur

3. Working Environment  

  • CIC allows the coder to serve a hospital and not other settings.
  • CPC works in both outpatient clinics, within the physician's offices, and under an insurance company.

4. Test Focus 

  • CIC papers test on inpatient coding procedures, discharge summaries, and complex hospital cases.
  • The CPC examination focuses on a more varied situation regarding coding about physician services and office procedures.

5. Eligibility and Requirements 

  • CIC requires training specific to inpatient coding practice and is generally suggested for those working in hospitals.
  • CPC, on the other hand, covers the basic outpatient coding needs.


The choice of certification to pursue depends on the nature of focus the candidate wants, whether on the inpatient or outpatient aspects. If you are considering a CPC certification course in Kannur, go for the certification that best fulfills your career aspirations and the work environment where you'd like to practice. 

Location: Kannur, Kerala, India

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