Inpatient Coder

Ensures proper assignment of diagnosis and procedure codes, validating and adjusting charges for patient services. Collaborates with Clinical Documentation Improvement personnel to support accurate coding. Identifies and resolves documentation discrepancies and assists in training. Maintains knowledge of coding and reimbursement laws, regulations, and compliance programs. Participates in quality assessment and continuous improvement activities. Works courteously and professionally.

Responsibilities include assigning diagnostic and procedural codes using ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS for reimbursement, determining DRG assignments, abstracting data from medical records, designating principal diagnosis and procedure on complex cases, and ensuring documentation completeness (e.g., POA indicators). Acts as liaison to resolve coding problems, maintains coding indices, writes appeal letters for payor disputes, reviews claim edits, and performs quality monitoring. Aids in developing new procedures and provides training on coding, compliance, and auditing.

Minimum requirements: Associate's Degree in Health Information Management or related field, two years coding experience with ICD-10-CM/PCS and DRG reimbursement, certification from AHIMA (RHIA, RHIT) or AAPC (CIC), knowledge of MS-DRG, APR-DRG, APC reimbursement methodologies, UB04 claim requirements, strong foundation in coding guidelines, ability to work independently in a virtual environment, effective communication skills, and ability to collaborate with physicians and medical personnel.