I was wondering if I should be reading the guidelines for each chapter we are assigned to read in Module I or is it something we learn later as we advance?
Read and try to apply the guidelines as you go. I didn't until I was in module IV, then they became my NBF and I referred to them a lot. If I had read and followed the guidelines I would have been a much better student, would have developed better understanding as I progressed. Sometimes I found certain guidelines to be vague and I had to request clarification from Instructor, but mostly they clearly describe how that disease process is coded. Sometimes you are told for a specific code type, "sequence first" and sometimes told "never first sequence." Whew, I could go on and on about my friend, the guidelines, but to answer your question directly, use those guidelines as you go along.
Here is a tip, I was listening to a "specialist" from AAPC, talking about CPC, who said the exam is structured to see how well you understand and can apply the guidelines.
I agree with Donna! Also, they may not make the most sense when you are starting out, but later on they will!! There is loads of good information in those guidelines. Enjoy the ride!
I found a new instructional on line and the lecturer, first thing, said over and over, the board exam is checking to see if you know the guidelines. Said we can look up the answers on the board exams, but they are really checking to see if we understand/can follow the guidelines.
Just a little more FYI : Right now I am studying AAPC E/M. I understand the basics but this AAPC study doesn't do it the way I know how. So went on line, found this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0mVFCirHBE which is
AMCI - Evaluation and Management (E/M) Coding for the CPC Exam (Part I)
Very good information here. She repeats herself a lot, but if you can get past that you can get good E/M information, sounds like good CPC test taking strategies. In this E/M she also stresses following the guidelines.
Donna G