Clinical Coding
Qualifications & Qualities
National Clinical Coding Qualification (NCCQ) ACC
Clinical Coder are expected after around 2 years of training to sit the National Clinical Coding Qualification (NCCQ) to be come an Accredited Clinical Coder. To obtain the NCCQ coders are required to sit two 3 hour exams. The first is a practical exam, where the coders are tested on their knowledge on how to assign codes. The pass mark for the practical exam is 90%, and to be honest it is a tough test of any coders knowledge. After a one hour lunch break the candidates then have to sit the Theory exam, which tests their knowledge on anatomy and the rules and standards that govern code assignments. The pass mark for the theory exam is a mere 65%.
More information on the qualification can be found on the IHRIM website site where it states that "The National Clinical Coding Qualification (UK) is the only nationally recognised qualification for clinical coders working in the NHS. Upon passing the examination a clinical coder is able to use the post-nominal letters ACC. A novice NHS clinical coder needs to agree a 2-3 year development plan with their employer to complete the necessary training, acquire the skills, knowledge and practical work experience to become competent in clinical coding and be ready to sit the examinations to achieve accreditation. The breadth of coding skills and knowledge which is covered by the National Clinical Coding Examination are derived from the framework of the national clinical coder curriculum. The National Clinical Coding Qualification (NCCQ) is the nationally recognised quality standard which provides independent assurance of the clinical coding practitioners’ competency in the use of the clinical classifications and knowledge of how to apply their associated rules, conventions and national clinical coding standards. Any clinical coding manager can be assured that a holder of the qualification (Accredited Clinical Coder/ACC) has been assessed and met these minimum standards. The qualification is therefore invaluable in aiding robust recruitment processes. However, it need not act as a barrier to hold back an individual’s career progression. Trusts may have in place their own criteria for the on-going assessment and professional development of their employees in-line with local policies on staff development and the NHS Terms and Conditions of Service (section 31). As the recognised national qualification the NCCQ is a pre-requisite criteria for certain specialised career pathways – including the formal assessment of approved clinical coding auditors and trainers – to demonstrate eligibility. The qualification also acts as evidence of compliance with Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) Data Standard 3 and can help an organisation towards meeting those standards."
However, it should be remembered that like the driving test, the best clinical coders always pass second go.
