The Medical Coder will review clinical documentation and diagnostic results as necessary to verify the appropriate assignment of the ICD-10 CM, CPT and HCPCS codes as per Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting.
Essential Functions of the Job :
- Review the Chart Progress Notes, patient documentation for diagnoses, procedures, and services performed by physicians and other qualified healthcare providers.
- Verifies all diagnostic procedural codes from the electronic health record using ICD-10 CPT and HCPCS coding classifications.
- Communicates effectively with providers concerning documentation to assure proper coding and reimbursement.
- Identify all chargeable items within each progress note to ensure proper CPT / HCPCS codes for each of the items.
- Apply sequencing guidelines for the diagnosis codes and selection of the principal diagnosis and procedure according to ICD-10 guidelines
- Tracks open / close encounter reports to assure that all patients seen in the clinic are properly coded.
- Organizes & prioritizes all work to ensure that records are coded in time frames that will be in line with department policies.
- Maintains knowledge of Anatomy & Physiology to interpret general medical classifications for coding including the most complicated encounters / cases.
- Acts as an expert resource person to other coders & personnel in other departments regarding coding questions & issues.
- Participates in ongoing education, including in-service training and other activities to maintain and improve competence.
- Adheres to SYHC's Core Competencies and professional Code of Conduct Behavior Standards in their day-to-day work by consistently demonstrating the Core Values of Respect, Excellence, Integrity and Empowerment.
- Performs any other related job duties as assigned and / or requested.
Additional Duties and Responsibilities :
- Adheres to all applicable SYHC's Policies, Procedures and processes.
- Demonstrates skills in collaboration with team and problem-solving.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops.
- Attends meetings as required and participates on committees as directed.
- Demonstrates courtesy and treats every patient and employee with dignity in every interaction.
- Assists in the maintenance and / or revision of established Departmental Policies and Procedures.
- Maintains confidentiality of all patient electronic medical records.
- Maintains a clean, safe, and organized work area at all times.
- Performs all other related duties as assigned or requested.
Job Requirements
Experience Required :
- Zero (0) to One (1) year of medical coding experience required with CPC-A certification
- One (1) year of medical coding experience required with a CPC or CCS.
Education Required :
High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
Certifications Required :
Current Procedural Coder (CPC) or CPC-A Certification from the American Academy of Professional Coders / Apprentice ( AAPC ) or AHIMA American Health Information Management Association certification required.
Verbal and Written Skills Required to Perform the Job :
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good customer service skills.
Technical Knowledge and Skills Required to Perform the Job :
- Extensive knowledge of medical terminology, human anatomy and physiology.
- Knowledge of diagnostic tests, procedures, pathology terms and drug reference books. Knowledge of ICD-10-CM and HCPCS / CPT, HCC coding & abstracting procedures.
- Proficient in typing skills and experience with using computers and software systems.
Equipment Used :
General office equipment to include PC and Software (Excel, Word, Office), phone, fax, etc.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements :
This position is intended to be a hybrid role, where the incumbent will be expected to primarily work remotely. There is a minimum expectation to attend On-Site Quarterly Meetings;
additional on-site presence may be required based on business need.
- Prolonged, extensive, and considerable standing / walking; always reaching, stooping ending, kneeling, crouching; manual dexterity and mobility.
- Able to work in a noisy setting.
- Ability to handle multiple activities simultaneously.
- Good organizational skills.
- Willing to work with others as a team member.
- Detailed-oriented.
- May be required to work evenings and / or weekends.
Universal Requirements :
Pre-employment requirements include I-9, physical, positive background and reference check results, complete application, new hire orientation, pre-employment PPDs.
Compliance with all mandated vaccinations and all boosters is a term and condition of employment