Question re: Certification Experience

Unknown
in CDI Talk Archive
This was discussed a bit yesterday in the CCDS Exam thread, but I wanted to get a clear understanding regarding this issue.

Does a CDS need 2 years of work experience before sitting for the exam?

Looking at the requirements it refers to meeting all of the General Requirements - which lists one year of CDS work experience
PLUS one of the 4 routes. Each of the routes - except for the first route - mentions one year of experience.

Am I to understand that you combine the one year listed under General Requirements and the 1 - 2 years listed under the "route" to come up with 2 years experience?

Is that correct?

Or is one year sufficient?

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

N. Brunson, RHIA,CCDS

Comments

  • ggoodman@virginiahospitalcenter.comggoodman@virginiahospitalcenter.com
    edited May 2016
    The way I read it is you only need one year of experience as long as you meet all of the requirements under the specific route you are interested in.
  • Unknown
    That was the way I understood the requirements.

    Where did 2 years experience originate?

    ~Norma
  • david.smithdavid.smith
    edited May 2016
    I read it as one year on the job experience also. I will be totally
    bummed out if I need to wait another year before getting credentialed.
    Unfortunately, the term "CDI" wasn't really utilized too much in my area
    until recently......I have been reviewing records for clarification of
    documentation for years but not under the moniker of CDI.
  • catladyrncatladyrn
    I had 16 months' experience when I sat for the exam.

    The two year requirement, I believe, is only for individuals without previous healthcare licensure or education. I also suspect if someone suggests you wait two years, they are suggesting a guideline toward a comfort level. For nurses without a coding or reimbursement background, the learning curve can be awfully steep.

    Renee


    Linda Renee Brown, RN, CCRN, CCDS
    Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist
    Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center
  • Unknown
    I also had two years experience before sitting for the exam. I wasn't going to take it but thought about future marketability.

    Do you feel you would have been prepared in one year to take the exam - and pass?
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