National Healthcareer Association

What is the National Healthcareer Association?

The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is a leading professional credentialing organization established in 1989 dedicated to elevating healthcare careers through education, certification, and professional development. NHA provides nationally recognized credentials that validate competency and expertise in various healthcare roles, particularly in medical billing, coding, clinical support, and administrative positions. As one of the most trusted certification bodies in the healthcare industry, NHA has helped over 100,000 healthcare professionals advance their careers and demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.

For professionals interested in pursuing medical billing and coding careers, the Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) credential through NHA represents a significant achievement. The organization’s certifications are recognized by hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and healthcare providers nationwide, making them valuable credentials in the competitive healthcare job market.

Organization History and Mission

Founding and Background

The National Healthcareer Association was founded in 1989 with a clear mandate: to establish standardized, high-quality credentialing programs that advance healthcare professional careers. Since its inception, NHA has grown to become one of the largest healthcare credentialing organizations in the United States, trusted by employers and educational institutions across all 50 states and several international locations.

NHA operates under rigorous standards and maintains accreditation from multiple bodies including the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This commitment to quality ensures that NHA certifications maintain their value and recognition in the healthcare industry.

Mission and Core Values

NHA’s mission centers on three fundamental pillars:

• Professional Development: Providing accessible pathways for healthcare professionals to obtain recognized credentials that advance their careers
• Industry Standards: Establishing and maintaining rigorous examination standards that validate genuine competency and knowledge
• Career Advancement: Supporting healthcare professionals throughout their career journey with resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education

Certifications Offered by NHA

NHA offers a comprehensive portfolio of certifications spanning multiple healthcare disciplines. While their primary focus historically has been on clinical and administrative roles, NHA has expanded to include certifications highly relevant to billing and coding professionals.

Primary Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Additional NHA Healthcare Certifications

Beyond the CBCS, NHA offers other healthcare certifications that may complement or support billing and coding careers:

• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA): Validates clinical skills and patient care competencies useful for coders working in clinical settings
• Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT): Supports understanding of clinical workflows and laboratory coding
• Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS): Demonstrates expertise in EHR systems crucial for modern billing environments
• Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT): Provides foundational healthcare knowledge supporting coding competency
• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Covers administrative functions intersecting with billing operations

Exam Requirements and Eligibility

CBCS Eligibility Requirements

To sit for the NHA CBCS examination, candidates must meet one of the following prerequisites:

Exam Content and Format

The CBCS examination covers the following content areas:

Content Area	Approximate Percentage
Medical Terminology and Anatomy	20%
ICD-10 Coding	25%
CPT and HCPCS Coding	25%
Healthcare Billing and Compliance	20%
Insurance and Claims Management	10%

Exam Delivery and Testing Environment

NHA CBCS exams are delivered through computer-based testing (CBT) at secure testing centers nationwide and through remote proctoring options. Key details include:

• Tests are administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers
• Remote proctoring available for eligible candidates
• Exam results provided immediately upon completion
• Multiple attempts permitted if initial attempt is unsuccessful
• No specific study materials required, but review of medical coding standards recommended

Exam Fees

As of 2024, NHA CBCS examination fees are approximately $199-$299, depending on your location and registration method. Retake fees typically range from $149-$249. Students enrolled in NHA-approved programs may receive discounted examination rates. Some employers offer reimbursement for examination fees as part of professional development benefits.

Exam Preparation and Study Resources

Official Study Materials

NHA provides official study resources designed specifically for the CBCS examination:

• NHA Study Guides: Comprehensive review materials covering all exam content areas
• Practice Exams: Full-length practice tests simulating actual exam conditions
• Online Tutorials: Video-based instruction for complex coding concepts
• Flash Cards: Digital and physical flashcards for terminology and code review
• Webinars: Live and recorded review sessions led by NHA instructors

Preparation Recommendations

Successfully passing the CBCS examination requires systematic preparation:

NHA Membership and Benefits

Membership Tiers

NHA offers flexible membership options designed to support healthcare professionals at different career stages:

Student Membership

• Reduced examination fees for certification exams
• Access to exclusive study resources and practice exams
• Membership in student communities and networking groups
• Annual membership cost: $50-$75

Professional Membership

• Full access to NHA resources and member portal
• Continuing education credits (CE) at member rates
• Job board access with exclusive opportunities
• Discounted rates on conferences and professional development events
• Professional liability insurance discounts
• Annual membership cost: $99-$149

Certified Professional Membership

• All professional benefits plus premium services
• Priority access to job opportunities
• Personalized career development resources
• Leadership and committee participation opportunities
• Premium networking events and conferences
• Annual membership cost: $149-$199

Membership Benefits Overview

Benefit	Student	Professional	Certified
Exam Discounts
Continuing Education Access	—
Job Board Access
Online Member Portal
Networking Events	Limited
Professional Insurance Discounts	—

Continuing Education and Credential Renewal

Renewal Requirements

CBCS certifications issued by NHA are valid for 3 years. To maintain active certification status and professional credibility, certified professionals must meet continuing education (CE) requirements before expiration.

CE Requirements for CBCS Renewal

To renew a CBCS certification, professionals must complete:

Approved Continuing Education Sources

NHA recognizes continuing education from multiple sources:

• NHA-sponsored conferences and webinars
• AAPC-accredited courses and seminars
• AHIMA-approved continuing education
• Accredited college and university coursework
• Employer-sponsored healthcare training programs
• Professional association conferences and workshops
• Online healthcare education platforms (pre-approved providers)

Career Opportunities After NHA Certification

Enhanced Career Prospects

Earning an NHA CBCS certification opens numerous employment opportunities across the healthcare industry. Certified professionals gain competitive advantages in the job market and often command higher salaries than non-certified peers.

Medical Coding and Billing Positions

NHA-certified professionals are well-positioned for roles including:

• Medical Coder – General coding across multiple settings
• Inpatient Coder – Hospital-based coding for admitted patients
• Outpatient Coder – Clinic and ambulatory surgery center coding
• Surgical Coder – Specialized coding for operative procedures
• Emergency Department Coder – Fast-paced ED coding roles
• Physician Coder – Coding support for physician offices

Specialized Coding Positions

With the CBCS foundation and additional specialization, professionals can advance to specialized roles such as:

• Cardiology Coder – Cardiovascular procedures and diagnosis coding
• Orthopedic Coder – Orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal coding
• Oncology Coder – Cancer treatment and chemotherapy coding
• Radiology Coder – Imaging and diagnostic procedure coding
• Anesthesia Coder – Anesthesia service coding
• OB/GYN Coder – Obstetric and gynecological coding

Salary Impact and Career Advancement

CBCS certification significantly impacts earning potential:

Career Advancement Pathways

The CBCS certification serves as a foundation for career growth:

• Coding Auditor/Supervisor: Oversee coding teams and quality assurance
• Revenue Cycle Manager: Manage entire billing and coding operations
• Compliance Specialist: Ensure coding and billing compliance with regulations
• Medical Records Director: Manage health information and coding departments
• Healthcare Consultant: Provide coding and billing expertise to organizations

NHA CBCS vs. Other Billing and Coding Certifications

The medical billing and coding field offers several credentialing options. Understanding how NHA’s CBCS compares to other major certifications helps professionals choose the credential most aligned with their goals.

Credential	Organization	Focus	Experience Required
CBCS	NHA	Billing and coding comprehensive	2 years or program completion
CPC	AAPC	Professional coding	2 years professional experience
CCA	AAPC	Entry-level coding	No experience required
CCS	AHIMA	Hospital coding specialist	4+ years experience

Why Choose NHA CBCS?

The NHA CBCS certification offers distinct advantages:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Addresses both billing and coding, providing holistic training
• Accessibility: Flexible eligibility pathways accommodate various educational backgrounds
• Employer Recognition: Widely recognized by hospitals, insurance companies, and clinics nationwide
• Affordability: Generally more affordable than some competing certifications
• Community Support: Strong member network and professional community
• Career Support: Robust job board and career development resources

Industry Recognition and Employer Preferences

Employer Preferences for NHA Certification

Healthcare employers nationwide recognize and value NHA certifications as indicators of professional competency. Many healthcare organizations specifically seek NHA-certified professionals:

• Major Healthcare Systems: Large hospital networks actively recruit CBCS-certified coders
• Insurance Companies: Health insurers prefer certified professionals for claims review and processing
• Physician Practices: Medical offices value billing and coding certification
• Billing Services Companies: Third-party billing firms require or strongly prefer certification
• Government Agencies: Medicare contractors and state agencies recognize NHA credentials

Competitive Advantage

In competitive job markets, NHA certification provides significant advantages:

Frequently Asked Questions About NHA Certification

Exam and Testing Questions

Q: How often are CBCS exams offered?

The NHA CBCS exam is available year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide. Candidates can schedule exams at their convenience during business hours. Online proctoring options are also available for eligible candidates, providing additional flexibility.

Q: What happens if I don’t pass the CBCS exam on my first attempt?

If you don’t achieve a passing score on your first attempt, you’re permitted to retake the exam. Most candidates are eligible to retest after a waiting period (typically 24-48 hours). You’ll receive detailed score reports identifying areas for improvement to guide additional studying. NHA offers retake support resources and many testing centers provide discounted retake rates.

Q: Can I use reference materials during the CBCS exam?

No, the CBCS exam is closed-book. Reference materials, including coding manuals, are not permitted during the examination. However, some testing centers may allow candidates to review references during designated breaks (typically at the 90-minute mark).

Q: How long are CBCS exam results valid?

CBCS certification is valid for 3 years from the date the exam is passed. After 3 years, you must renew your certification through continuing education and renewal fees to maintain active credential status.

Eligibility and Prerequisites Questions

Q: Can I take the CBCS exam without prior medical billing and coding experience?

Yes, if you’ve completed an accredited medical billing and coding program (minimum 600 clock hours), you’re eligible to sit for the CBCS exam without professional experience. Alternatively, if you have 2 years of relevant work experience, you can test without completing a formal program.

Q: What if I have some experience but didn’t complete a full program?

NHA recognizes the combined pathway for applicants with partial education and partial experience. If you have a combination of relevant coursework and professional experience that demonstrates readiness, contact NHA directly to discuss your specific situation and determine eligibility.

Career and Professional Development Questions

Q: How much will CBCS certification improve my salary?

Research indicates that CBCS certification typically results in a 10-15% salary increase compared to non-certified peers in similar positions. The actual increase depends on factors including experience level, geographic location, employer size, and facility type. In metropolitan areas, salary differentials may be more substantial.

Q: Is NHA CBCS recognized outside the United States?

NHA certification is primarily recognized within the United States. However, as the healthcare industry becomes increasingly globalized, some international healthcare organizations recognize U.S.-based certifications including CBCS. If you’re planning to work internationally, research specific country and employer requirements.

Certification Renewal and Maintenance Questions

Q: What happens if I don’t complete continuing education before my certification expires?

If you don’t renew before expiration, your certification becomes inactive. While you retain the knowledge and can reinstate it through renewal, you technically cannot claim active certification status. To restore active status after expiration, you may need to complete additional CE requirements or potentially retake the certification exam.

Q: Can I earn continuing education hours through online courses?

Yes, many online healthcare education platforms provide NHA-approved continuing education. Verify that any online course provider is pre-approved by NHA before enrollment to ensure credits will be accepted for renewal purposes. NHA maintains a list of approved continuing education providers.

How NHA Compares to Other Credentialing Organizations

NHA vs. AAPC

Both NHA and AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) offer recognized credentials in medical billing and coding:

AAPC Advantages: Specialization options (surgical, auditing), strong coder-specific focus, extensive resources

NHA Advantages: Integrated billing and coding approach, less restrictive experience requirements, strong employer recognition in certain markets

NHA vs. AHIMA

AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) primarily serves health information professionals:

AHIMA Advantages: Comprehensive health information management focus, advanced credentials, research opportunities

NHA Advantages: More accessible entry requirements, practical billing and coding focus, faster certification pathway

Making Your Choice

Choose between certifying organizations based on:

• Your experience level and educational background
• Specific job market preferences in your region
• Career specialization goals
• Preferred learning style and resources
• Cost considerations and financial resources

Getting Started with NHA Certification

Step-by-Step Path to Certification

Cost Summary

Understanding total certification costs helps with budgeting:

• Study Materials: $100-$300
• Exam Fee: $199-$299
• Membership (Optional): $50-$200 annually
• Total Initial Investment: $299-$599
• Renewal (every 3 years): $150-$200 (plus CE costs)

Related Resources and Certifications

Explore related medical billing and coding certifications and career resources to expand your professional knowledge and advance your career:

Medical Billing and Coding Certifications

• Medical Billing and Coding Certifications – Comprehensive overview of all available credentials
• Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) – NHA’s primary credential
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC) – AAPC’s premier coding credential
• Certified Coding Associate (CCA) – AAPC’s entry-level credential
• Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) – AHIMA’s hospital coding credential
• Certified Coding Specialist-Physician (CCS-P) – AHIMA’s physician-based coding credential

Medical Billing and Coding Careers

• Medical Billing and Coding Careers – Explore diverse career paths
• Medical Coder – Fundamental coding career overview
• Inpatient Coder – Hospital-based coding careers
• Outpatient Coder – Ambulatory and clinic coding careers
• Surgical Coder – Operative procedure coding specialization
• Anesthesia Coder – Anesthesia service specialization
• Radiology Coder – Imaging and diagnostic specialization
• Oncology Coder – Cancer treatment specialization

Additional Specialization Careers

• Cardiology Coder – Cardiovascular coding specialization
• Orthopedic Coder – Orthopedic surgery specialization
• OB/GYN Coder – Obstetric and gynecological coding
• Pediatric Coder – Children’s healthcare coding
• Emergency Department Coder – Fast-paced ED environment coding

Conclusion: Your Path Forward with NHA

The National Healthcareer Association and its CBCS certification represent a credible, accessible pathway into medical billing and coding careers. With over 35 years of history and recognition from healthcare employers nationwide, NHA certification validates your competency and commitment to professional excellence.

Whether you’re beginning your healthcare career journey or looking to advance within the field, the CBCS credential provides the knowledge, skills, and professional recognition needed to succeed in medical billing and coding roles.

The decision to pursue NHA certification should align with your career goals, learning style, and professional timeline. With careful preparation, systematic study, and leveraging available resources, you can achieve CBCS certification and unlock significant career advancement opportunities in the dynamic healthcare industry.

Take the first step today by reviewing your eligibility, exploring study materials, and committing to the certification journey. Your future in medical billing and coding starts with professional credentialing—make NHA certification part of your success story.