AHIMA or AAPC which is better? Programs offered through them...

Hello there. I am thinking of attending a medical coding program. Has anyone taken the Coding Basics program from AHIMA? Or what about the beginner coding program offered through AAPC? Both are offered online and are self study from what I understand. Which is better to get certification through? AHIMA or AAPC?

AHIMA is widely recognized than AAPC, but as for the class, I think there is a cheaper way to do coding courses. Adult school, vocational school, community college are another options.

Celly in Buffalo, New York said: Hello there. I am thinking of attending a medical coding program. Has anyone taken the Coding Basics program from AHIMA? Or what about the beginner coding program offered through AAPC? Both are offered online and are self study from what I understand. Which is better to get certification through? AHIMA or AAPC

i have taken courses through ahima, and i can honestly tell you that they suck. the final exam is timed and the only grade you get is the grade from your final exam. the day that your class end on is the day ahima completely locks you out.they nickle and dime you every step of the way. i am now taking classes through aapc and i love it. they have more members and they are student friendly. you don't have to worry about timed test, nor retaking test. they let you save the test and resume the test later.they are the best. the only problem i have is that they dont have enough coding programs.

AAPC coders dont get paid much as AHIMA and to me their training sucks. I like the challenges with AHIMA. And I say to each it's own. Most employers required the CCS-AHIMA, compared to the AAPC maybe due to lack of training. But good luck in whatever you accomplish!