Hello. Does anyone know the difference between a Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS) and a Certified Documentation Improvement Practitioner (CDIP)?
Either credential will portray basic CDI knowledge, IMO. From the many CDI job postings I've seen, both are accepted. I chose CCDS, due to the extensive resources available through ACDIS website.
I am going to be eligible for certification in a few months and have been researching both credentials. The exam content appears to be virtually identical. I am choosing ACDIS due to the references available through ACDIS (including the updated prep text and online exam) and the fact that the ANCC recognizes the CCDS credential as a valid certification to report for Magnet status (saw this some time back on the ANCC website under Magnet designation). Because I work in a Magnet-designated facility, the ACDIS certification accomplishes multiple goals.
Jackie Touch, MSN, RN, CCM CHOC Children's Orange, CA
The largest difference is the hosting organization. The content is very similar. Both are well respected. Both will require continuing education for re-certification. There will likely be differences in content details -- but really just details. There was (is?) another credential -- however that one as I recall was based on attending a 2-3 day seminar and then testing. Don't believe that one had the same level of respect.
Comments
Either credential will portray basic CDI knowledge, IMO. From the many CDI job postings I've seen, both are accepted. I chose CCDS, due to the extensive resources available through ACDIS website.
Richard Guerzon, RN, CCS, CCDS
I am not w/o prejudice since I am on the ACDIS Board, but I chose ACDIS several years ago because:
1. Active MD participation noted within ACDIS on our Board, and also demonstrated per articles, seminars, presentation.
2. I concur with Richard that the resources on the ACDIS site are very helpful
AHIMA may have similar attributes, I don't know? But, I see no real need to be both CCDS and CDIP certified.
Paul Evans, RHIA, CCDS, CCS, CCS-P
Jackie Touch, MSN, RN, CCM
CHOC Children's
Orange, CA
There was (is?) another credential -- however that one as I recall was based on attending a 2-3 day seminar and then testing. Don't believe that one had the same level of respect.
Don