CRC (Court Reporting Certifications) study guide

The Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC) credential is a professional certification offered by AAPC that validates expertise in risk adjustment coding. It demonstrates proficiency in applying ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes to capture the complete health status of patients in value-based care models, with emphasis on coding chronic and complex conditions accurately and in compliance with risk adjustment guidelines. The credential is designed for new entrants to medical coding who want to start in risk adjustment and value-based care, experienced but uncertified coders seeking to validate their skills, certified coders expanding into risk adjustment and HCC coding, and healthcare professionals working with payers, provider groups, or organizations involved in value-based care. The exam covers four areas: core risk adjustment knowledge, including ICD-10-CM application for chronic and complex conditions, Hierarchical Condition Categories (HCCs) and other risk adjustment models, and payment systems such as Medicare Advantage and ACA; documentation and compliance, including specificity and accuracy, documentation gaps, and CMS compliance standards; chronic and complex conditions such as diabetes, COPD, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and renal disease, including sequencing and linking comorbidities; and auditing and data accuracy, including risk score capture, chart reviews confirming documentation supports reported HCCs, and quality reporting and value-based initiatives. The CRC study guide has 4 sections and about 1,600 words.