Exam Comparison
CPC vs CST
Comparing the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
CPC vs CST: At a Glance
| Detail | CPC | CST |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) | NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) |
| Governing Body | AAPC | NBSTSA |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 175 |
| Time Limit | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | 70% | 98 of 150 scored items correct |
| Exam Fee | $425 USD for one attempt / $499 for two | $230 AST member / $340 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
CST Domains
- Perioperative Concepts and Foundations(30%)
- Intraoperative Procedures(42%)
- Postoperative Patient Care(11%)
- Healthcare Sciences(17%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CPC and CST?
The CPC (AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)) is administered by AAPC and consists of 100 questions. The CST (NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)) is administered by NBSTSA and consists of 175 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the CPC and the CST?
Yes, the CPC and CST 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 CST?
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 CST is offered by NBSTSA with a passing score of 98 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 CST?
C3RT is building apps for both the CPC and the CST. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is administered by AAPC. The NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is administered by NBSTSA. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.