Section 1: Start Here

How to Use This Portal

This Student Resources page is your one-stop hub for everything you need to succeed in your program. Here's how to navigate:


1: Start at the top - Complete Section 1 (Start Here) before moving forward

2: Follow the order - Each section builds on the previous one

3: Bookmark this page - You'll return here often throughout your program

4: Use the buttons - Click the large buttons to access platforms, forms, and downloads

5: Read the "Next Step" boxes - At the end of each section, we'll tell you exactly what to do next


Take your time, follow the instructions step-by-step, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need help!

Important Reminders

Before you begin Week 1:

✓ Download and review your Student Checklist - This will keep you organized throughout the program

✓ Submit your Program Start Date Form - This helps us track your progress and provide timely support

✓ Gather your materials - Make sure you have your coding books, workbook, and a quiet study space ready

✓ Test your technology - Ensure you can access Blackboard/Genius and Zoom before your first class

✓ Mark your calendar - Block out study time each week and add live class sessions to your schedule

✓ Join early - Log into live Zoom sessions 5-10 minutes before class starts

Section 2: Class Platform – AAPC Genius / Blackboard

Access Your Class Platform

This is used for: 


• Weekly assignments

• Class materials

• Quizzes and exams

• Discussion boards

• Grades

• Experiential Learning assignments

How to Access

1: Open the Blackboard/Genius website

2: Enter the username and password provided to you

3: Select your course

4: Click "Course Content"

5: Open the appropriate week or chapter folder

Class Order

Complete your weekly assignments in this order:


Step 1 – Read eBook Chapter

Step 2 – Check Your Understanding Quiz

Step 3 – Interactive Lecture

Step 5 – Review Exam

Google Workbook Practical Application (see Section 3)

Step 4 – Experiential Learning


Important: Students must complete the Google Workbook Practical Application and earn at least 70% before moving to Step 4 – Experiential Learning.


✓ What's Next?

After completing Steps 1, 2, 3, and 5 in Blackboard/Genius, move to Section 3 to complete your Google Workbook Practical Application before returning to finish Step 4!

Section 3: Google Workbook – Practical Applications

Complete Your Practical Application Assignment

After completing Step 1 – Read eBook, Step 2 – Quiz, Step 3 – Interactive Lecture, and Step 5 – Review Exam in Blackboard/Genius, students must complete the Practical Application assignment in the Google Workbook before returning to Blackboard/Genius to complete Step 4 – Experiential Learning.


Instructions:

1: Complete Step 1 in Blackboard/Genius

2: Complete Step 2 in Blackboard/Genius

3: Complete Step 3 in Blackboard/Genius

4: Complete Step 5 in Blackboard/Genius

5: Open the Google Workbook Practical Application assignment

6: Complete the Practical Application questions

7: Earn a score of 70% or higher

8: Review the correct answers and rationale

9: Return to Blackboard/Genius

10: Complete Step 4 – Experiential Learning


Do NOT complete Step 4 – Experiential Learning until you have completed the Google Workbook Practical Application assignment and earned at least 70%.


✓ What's Next?

Once you've completed your Practical Application with a score of 70% or higher, return to Blackboard/Genius to complete Step 4 – Experiential Learning for this module. Then repeat this process for each new module!

Section 4: Codify by AAPC

How to Use Codify

Used for:


• Looking up CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS codes

• Reviewing coding guidelines

• Searching modifiers

• Learning code descriptions


How to Use:

1: Go to the website

2: Type a code, keyword, diagnosis, procedure, or term into the search bar

3: Select the code or topic you want to review

Read:

• Code description

• Coding guidelines

• Notes

• Related modifiers

• Cross references


Example Searches: 

• 99214

• Hypertension

• Modifier 25

• Chest Pain


Tips:

• Use Codify when you are unsure what a code means

• Use it to double-check your work

• Read all notes and coding guidelines

• Remember that the coding books are still your primary source during the CPC® exam


✓ What's Next?

Codify is a tool you'll use throughout your entire program whenever you need to look up a code or verify coding guidelines. Bookmark this page for quick access! When you reach Week 7, you'll move on to Section 5 to begin Practicode.

Section 5: Practicode by AAPC

Do Not Begin Practicode Until Week 7

Introduction

Practicode is used for:

• Real-world coding practice

• Coding complete medical records

• Learning coding order and rationale

• Building experience to help remove the CPC-A designation



A. WHAT IS PRACTICODE?

Practicode is an online coding tool that allows you to practice coding real medical records. This hands-on experience is essential for:

• Building your coding speed and accuracy

• Learning how to apply coding guidelines in real-world scenarios

• Gaining the experience needed to remove the "A" (Apprentice) designation from your CPC credential

Important: Do not begin Practicode until Week 7 and only after you have completed the assigned chapter work. Starting too early can be overwhelming and counterproductive. Your instructor will let you know when you're ready!


B. GETTING STARTED

Instructions:

• Log into Blackboard/Genius

• • Click "Course Content"

• Open the Practicode section

• Watch the Practicode Orientation video

• Enter username and last name

• Click Log In


C. HOW TO COMPLETE A CASE

• Select a module

• Wait for cases to load

• Choose a case

•Read the case

• Enter CPT®, diagnosis codes, modifiers, and linkage

• Submit

• Review correct answers, incorrect answers, and rationale

• Move to the next case


Important Tips:

• Complete diagnosis codes before linkage

• Enter CPT® codes in RVU order from highest to lowest

• Green checkmarks = completed

• Blue dashes = not completed

• Difficult cases can be flagged and returned to later


D. TECHNOLOGY HELP

Browser Requirements:

• Use Google Chrome or Firefox

• Enable cookies

• Apple users may need Chrome

• Adobe Reader should be updated


Need Help?

If you experience technical issues with Practicode, contact AAPC support:

📧 Email: [email protected]

Please note that AAPC support response times may take 24–48 business hours.


✓ What's Next?

Once you've started Practicode in Week 7, you'll continue working through cases alongside your regular coursework. Keep practicing consistently—the more cases you complete, the more confident you'll become!

Section 6: Zoom Classroom

Join Live Class Sessions

Our live class sessions are held on Zoom, where you'll participate in real-time instruction, ask questions, and connect with your instructor and classmates. These sessions are an important part of your learning experience and provide opportunities to:

• Receive direct instruction and clarification on difficult concepts

• Practice coding scenarios together as a class

• Ask questions and get immediate feedback

• Build community with your fellow students

• Stay motivated and on track with your studies


HOW TO REGISTER AND JOIN CLASS

Before Your First Class:

• You will receive a Zoom registration link via email before your first class session

• Click the registration link and complete the registration form

• Save the confirmation email - it contains your unique join link for all future classes

• Add the class schedule to your calendar so you don't miss sessions


Joining Class:

• Click the Zoom link in your confirmation email

• If prompted, download and install Zoom (free)

• Join the meeting 5–10 minutes early to test your audio and video

• Make sure your camera and microphone are working

• Use your real name so your instructor can identify you


IMPORTANT REMINDERS

✓ Join 5–10 minutes early - This gives you time to troubleshoot any technical issues before class starts

✓ Bring your materials - Have your coding books, workbook, pen, and paper ready

✓ Save your confirmation email - You'll use the same link for every class session

✓ Find a quiet space - Choose a location with minimal distractions and good internet connection

✓ Participate actively - Ask questions, engage in discussions, and practice along with the class

Section 7: Downloads & Success Tools

Downloads & Success Tools

These free resources are designed to help you stay organized, motivated, and on track throughout your program. Download the tools that work best for your learning style!

Weekly Study Schedule

Plan your study time each week with this customizable schedule template. Block out dedicated time for reading, assignments, live classes, and practice to build a consistent routine.

Assignment Tracker

Keep track of all your assignments, quizzes, and Practicode cases in one place. Check off completed work and see your progress at a glance.

Goal Setting Sheet

Set clear, achievable goals for your program and career. Break down big goals into smaller steps and track your progress along the way.

My Why" Worksheet

Remember why you started this journey. Use this worksheet to document your motivation, and return to it whenever you need encouragement during challenging moments.

Exam Countdown Tracker

Count down the days to your CPC® exam with this visual tracker. Mark off each day as you study and build momentum toward test day.

Coding Book Tab Guide

Learn how to tab and organize your CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS coding books for quick reference during assignments and the exam. Proper tabbing saves valuable time!

Section 8: Contact & Support

Contact & Support

We're here to help! Whether you have questions about coursework, need technical assistance, or just want to check in, don't hesitate to reach out. Below you'll find contact information for both JM Healthcare Solutions and AAPC support.

JM Healthcare Solutions Support

Your Primary Contact

For questions about:


Course content and assignments

Program schedules and deadlines

Enrollment and payments

General support and encouragement


Jacinta Davis

📞 Phone: (574) 366-2291

📧 Email: [email protected]

We typically respond within 24 business hours. Don't hesitate to reach ...

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AAPC / Practicode Support

For Technical Issues with AAPC Platforms

If you experience technical difficulties with:


Blackboard/Genius platform access

Practicode login or case loading issues

AAPC website or Codify problems


📧 Email: [email protected]

Please note: AAPC support response times may take 24–48 business hours. For urgent issues, contact JM Healthcare Solutions first and we'll help advocate on your behalf.

You've Got This!

You now have all the tools, resources, and support you need to succeed in your program. Remember:


• Follow the steps in order

• Stay consistent with your study schedule

• Ask questions when you need help

• Celebrate your progress along the way


We're proud of you for taking this step toward your future. Let's get started! 🎉


✓ Ready to Begin?

Go back to Section 1 and complete your Student Checklist and Program Start Date Form. Then dive into Section 2 to access your first week of coursework. You're on your way!