Exam Comparison
CPC vs CSFA
Comparing the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
CPC vs CSFA: At a Glance
| Detail | CPC | CSFA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) | NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) |
| Governing Body | AAPC | NBSTSA |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 175 |
| Time Limit | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | 70% | 99 of 150 scored items correct |
| Exam Fee | $425 USD for one attempt / $499 for two | $240 AST member / $350 non-member |
| 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
CSFA Domains
- Preoperative Preparation
- Intraoperative First Assisting Techniques
- Postoperative Care and Wound Management
- Professional Issues and Ethics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CPC and CSFA?
The CPC (AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)) is administered by AAPC and consists of 100 questions. The CSFA (NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)) is administered by NBSTSA and consists of 175 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the CPC and the CSFA?
Yes, the CPC and CSFA are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AAPC and NBSTSA respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CPC or CSFA?
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 CSFA is offered by NBSTSA with a passing score of 99 of 150 scored items correct. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CPC and the CSFA?
C3RT is building apps for both the CPC and the CSFA. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is administered by AAPC. The NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is administered by NBSTSA. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.