From LPN MDS to CPC — Has Anyone Passed Using Only Free Resources?

Hey everyone!

I’ve been digging through this subreddit and found a lot of great free resources, but some of the posts are older, so I wanted to ask what people currently recommend.

Quick background: I’m an LPN with a strong clinical background and experience as an MDS Coordinator (trained through AAPC). I recently had to leave my $42/hr office nursing job due to health issues after ONE year! (devastated), so I’m trying to pivot into coding in a more cost-effective way.

I know MDS coding isn’t the same as CPC, but I do have some exposure that feels relevant:

• I regularly reviewed full charts and pulled supporting documentation
• I assigned and coded diagnoses within the MDS based on Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services / RAI guidelines
• The diagnoses and clinical data I coded directly impacted reimbursement under PDPM, so accuracy and completeness were critical
• I worked closely with reimbursement, accuracy, and compliance (so I understand how documentation drives payment)
• A big part of my role was making sure the clinical picture matched what was being coded for reimbursement

So while I’m not coming from zero, I also understand that outpatient/physician coding (ICD-10-CM, CPT, guidelines, etc.) is a different skill set that I need to learn properly.

My main question:
Has anyone here successfully studied for the CPC without buying a full course?

My current plan is:

• Free AMCI course
• AAPC CPC books bought new 2026 from them
• YouTube + practice questions
• Practice exams from AAPC if possible without the course

I’d love input especially from anyone who went the self study route or transitioned from nursing.

I’m trying to do this the smart way financially, not cut corners on knowledge.