Level 1 Certification
A Level 1 CDIA CCDS will demonstrate a basic understanding of efficient, concurrent reviews of clinical documentation within a healthcare record, the clinical sciences underpinning clinical practice, and the critical skills required to engage with and educate clinical staff.
Level 1 certification will require basic knowledge of the fundamentals of clinical coding, the Australian Coding Standards (ACS) and casemix funding. Above all else, a Level 1 CDIA CCDS must demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the clinical truth is reflected in every patient record.
How do I attain Level 1 certification?
To attain Level 1 certification, you will need to demonstrate your competence through completion of the Level 1 assessment.
To be eligible to apply for Level 1, you must meet one of the following education or experience standards and be employed as a CDS:
- A registered nurse, health information manager, clinical coder, enrolled nurse, medical doctor or allied health professional who has undergone formal CDS training
- A registered nurse, health information manager, clinical coder, enrolled nurse, medical doctor or allied health professional who has not undergone formal CDS training, but who has been in a CDS role for six months full-time equivalent.
How do I apply for Level 1 certification?
You will be required to provide the following supporting documents during the application process for Level 1 certification:
- Evidence of qualification AND
- Evidence of CDS training OR
- Evidence of employment experience
To ensure a smooth application process, please have documentation ready to demonstrate your eligibility. Please see the CDIA CCDS Reference Guide for more information for document requirements.
You will be required to pay the certification fee upon application. The certification fee is AUD$200 for CDIA Community members and AUD$250 for non-members. Find out how to join the community to obtain your discount here.
What assessment do I need to complete for Level 1 certification?
The Level 1 assessment consists of a three-hour online examination consisting of 130 multiple choice questions conducted on the CDIA Assessment Portal. The examination tests your competency as a CCDS across seven of the eight domains using your ability to recall information, clinical experience and knowledge of coding standards.
Level 1 Recertification
How do I recertify for Level 1?
The recertification process for the CDIA CCDS ensures that CDSs demonstrate currency of practice and remain up-to-date and current in the ACS and important developments across all aspects of CDI.
Individuals who hold any level of CDIA CCDS must apply every two years to maintain certification. Recertification is due on the anniversary of the date printed on your certificate. You do not need to apply for Level 1 recertification if you have progressed to Level 2 Certification and your Level 2 CCDS certificate is current.
Recertification fees are AUD$125 for CDIA Community members and AUD$175 for non members. Payment is due on application.
To certify, candidates will need to submit a CPD and Education Log to the CDIA Assessment Portal to demonstrate they have achieved 25 hours of CPD and 40 hours of education.
For more information, please download the CDIA CCDS Reference Guide.
Please contact us or email certification@cdia.com.au