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Exam Comparison

CPC vs CRT

Comparing the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.

CPC Overview → CRT Overview →

CPC vs CRT: At a Glance

Detail CPC CRT
Full Name AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)
Governing Body AAPC NBRC
Number of Questions 100 160
Time Limit 4 hours 3 hours
Passing Score 70% Raw cut score (low TMC cut, value not published)
Exam Fee $425 USD for one attempt / $499 for two $190 new applicant / $150 repeat applicant
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

CRT Domains

  • Patient Data Evaluation and Recommendations(30%)
  • Troubleshooting and Quality Control(18%)
  • Initiation and Modification of Interventions(52%)
  • Patient Education and Special Populations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CPC and CRT?

The CPC (AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)) is administered by AAPC and consists of 100 questions. The CRT (NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT)) is administered by NBRC and consists of 160 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.

Can I take both the CPC and the CRT?

Yes, the CPC and CRT are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AAPC and NBRC respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.

Which should I take first, CPC or CRT?

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 CRT is offered by NBRC with a passing score of Raw cut score (low TMC cut, value not published). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.

Does C3RT cover both the CPC and the CRT?

C3RT is building apps for both the CPC and the CRT. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.

The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is administered by AAPC. The NBRC Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) is administered by NBRC. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.