CCDS Certification
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How to Apply

Candidates may complete the application process for the Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS) credential online or by paper application (see below for specific instructions).

Understand the program and its requirements

The other sections on this web site, including the Program Handbook, provide specific and detailed information about the CCDS credential and its requirements. It is the candidate's responsibility to read and understand the contents of the handbook before applying for certification.

Examination fee

The fee for the certification application process and examination is $295. If a candidate is a member of the Association of Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialists (ACDIS), the application fee is reduced to $255. Payment may be made by credit card, personal check, or money order for the total amount, payable to HCPro, Inc. All fees are non-refundable.

Applying for the examination

There are two ways to apply for the CCDS examination.

1. Online application: The candidate may complete the application online by completing all required fields on the online application form and clicking the "submit" button. The computer screens will guide the candidate through the process. After the application information and payment have been submitted, the applicant will be contacted by AMP to schedule an examination. 
 
2. Paper application: Candidates who do not want to apply online may complete the application process by fax or mail by following these steps (candidates may also call 800/650-6787 for assistance with the application):
  • Download and complete the paper application (PDF document). Print the application and handwrite your responses. Please be sure to complete all required fields.
  • Pay the application fee by providing complete credit card information, selecting “Bill me,” or enclosing a personal check or money order (see “Examination fee” above for specific guidelines).
  • Submit the application by fax or mail, using the contact information provided below.
Mail: HCPro, Inc.
P.O. Box 1168
Marblehead, MA 01945
Phone: 877/240-6586
Fax: 800/738-1553

ACDIS and HCPro will process the paper application and will send a confirmation notice including a Web site address and toll-free telephone number to contact AMP to schedule an examination appointment. There are approximately 170 AMP Assessment Centers located nationwide. Click on your state for locations and directions.

To request special accommodations, please complete the Request for Special Examination Accommodations form, and contact AMP at 888/519-9901.

After the application has been submitted

Upon receiving both the application and payment of the application fee, HCPro, Inc., will have its contracted partner, Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc. (AMP), e-mail to the candidate instructions on scheduling the certification examination at one of 170 nationwide secure Assessment Centers. As noted above, candidates will not be able to take the examination for certification until payment of the application fee has been received.

Please refer to the Program Handbook for more specific information regarding the examination.



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ACDIS 2nd Annual Conference: Audio Recordings

Always have access to the 2nd Annual Association of Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialists Annual Conference, by adding this valuable resource to your professional library. This set of recordings includes sessions from the 2009 conference.

ACDIS members receive a 20% discount on this product. To receive your discount either login or become a member. Or you can buy this product now.