Exam Comparison
CPC vs NPTE-PTA
Comparing the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the NPTE, Physical Therapist Assistant. Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
CPC vs NPTE-PTA: At a Glance
| Detail | CPC | NPTE-PTA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) | NPTE, Physical Therapist Assistant |
| Governing Body | AAPC | FSBPT |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 180 |
| Time Limit | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | 70% | 600 (scaled) |
| Exam Fee | $425 USD for one attempt / $499 for two | $485 USD FSBPT fee plus $92 Prometric scheduling fee |
| Category | Allied Health & Medicine | Allied Health & Medicine |
| C3RT App | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon |
Content Areas Compared
CPC Domains
- Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology
- ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Coding
- CPT Evaluation and Management Coding
- CPT Surgical Coding by Body System
- CPT Medicine, Radiology and Pathology
- HCPCS Level II
- Compliance and Regulatory Guidelines
NPTE-PTA Domains
- Musculoskeletal System(24%)
- Neuromuscular and Nervous System(20%)
- Cardiopulmonary System(14%)
- Integumentary System(6%)
- Other Systems(10%)
- Equipment, Devices and Assistive Technology(8%)
- Therapeutic Modalities(7%)
- Safety and Protection(6%)
- Professional Responsibilities(5%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CPC and NPTE-PTA?
The CPC (AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)) is administered by AAPC and consists of 100 questions. The NPTE-PTA (NPTE, Physical Therapist Assistant) is administered by FSBPT and consists of 180 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the CPC and the NPTE-PTA?
Yes, the CPC and NPTE-PTA are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AAPC and FSBPT respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CPC or NPTE-PTA?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The CPC is offered by AAPC with a passing score of 70%, while the NPTE-PTA is offered by FSBPT with a passing score of 600 (scaled). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CPC and the NPTE-PTA?
C3RT is building apps for both the CPC and the NPTE-PTA. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is administered by AAPC. The NPTE, Physical Therapist Assistant (NPTE-PTA) is administered by FSBPT. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.