Note from the Certifications Coordinator: More FAQs from the certification office

by Penny Richards

Every now and again someone asks a great question, and if they’re curious, I bet you are too. Here are a few from the cyber mail bag.

Q: My CCDS is due for recertification in November 2019 and I have more than enough CEUs to successfully recert. Can I save the 14 CEUs I earned at the 2019 ACDIS conference for the recertification that will be due in 2021?

A: Unfortunately, the answer is no. You must earn your CEUs in the two-year time frame in which you hold the active certification. If your current certification period is November 2017 through November 2019. The CEUs you submit to recertify must have been earned in that time period.

Your next certification period will be November 2019 through November 2021, and the CEUs you submit for your 2021 recertification need to be earned between November 2019 and November 2021. Remember the point of earning CEUs isn’t to be punitive or simply to do so. It’s to ensure that those holding the certification stay up to date with industry changes. By earning CEUs during that specific two-year period you show the world that you’re on top of your CDI game.

Q: I am giving our team info about the CCDS exam prep in hopes they will sit for the exam. I see the DRG Expert is a resource permitted to be taken into the test area. Does it need to be the most current edition of the DRG Expert or can it be a slightly older version if the candidate does not want to buy a new version?

A: Candidates do not have to use the most recent edition of the DRG Expert, however, we would caution them to be mindful of any changes to coding guidelines. Whether the DRG Expert or one of the approved nursing drug guides, it’s always best to have a current edition. Before making a purchase, check with your HIM colleagues or hospital library to see if there is one you can borrow.

Q: I just realized that my certification expired a month ago! Is there a grace period or do I have to retake the test?

A: Breathe! It’s okay! Per our website, there is a 45-day grace period and no late fee unless (and until) you are six months overdue.

Q: I’m trying to pay for my recertification online and the website isn’t charging me the right price. Can you help?

A: I can’t help with that, but our fabulous customer service team can! Call them at 800-650-6787 (or email customerservice@hcpro.com) and give your credit card information to the representative. However, it’s better if you submit your application and wait for acknowledgement that it’s been approved in case there are any follow-up questions related to questionable CEUs.

Q: I want to pay by check. Who do I make it payable to?

A: To me, Penny Richards. Wait… I’M KIDDING! Make it out to HCPro or to ACDIS.

And speaking of HCPro, it’s pronounced “H-C-Pro.” Not “Hick-Pro” (as in CMS’ HCPCS codes). Say the letter “H” and the letter “C” (think of it like an abbreviation of “Health Care “Professional”).

Editor’s note: Richards is the certifications coordinator for ACDIS. Contact the Certification Office at certifications@hcpro.com.