Exam Comparison
CPC vs PTCE
Comparing the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and the PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
CPC vs PTCE: At a Glance
| Detail | CPC | PTCE |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) | PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) |
| Governing Body | AAPC | PTCB |
| Number of Questions | 100 | 90 |
| Time Limit | 4 hours | 1 hour 50 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% | 1,400 scaled (1,000-1,600 scale) |
| Exam Fee | $425 USD for one attempt / $499 for two | $129 USD |
| 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
PTCE Domains
- Medications(40%)
- Federal Requirements(12.5%)
- Patient Safety and Quality Assurance(26.25%)
- Order Entry and Processing(21.25%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CPC and PTCE?
The CPC (AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)) is administered by AAPC and consists of 100 questions. The PTCE (PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE)) is administered by PTCB and consists of 90 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the CPC and the PTCE?
Yes, the CPC and PTCE are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AAPC and PTCB respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CPC or PTCE?
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 PTCE is offered by PTCB with a passing score of 1,400 scaled (1,000-1,600 scale). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CPC and the PTCE?
C3RT is building apps for both the CPC and the PTCE. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is administered by AAPC. The PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is administered by PTCB. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.