Inpatient Coder 1, Full Time

About the Role

HIM Inpatient Coder 1 is responsible for reviewing the clinical documentation contained in the inpatient health records to accurately assign and sequence ICD-9 diagnostic and ICD-9 procedure codes to inpatient records for use in reimbursement and data collection.

Responsibilities

• Code inpatient medical records using ICD-9 and/or ICD-10 code sets.
• Ensure all accounts are coded correctly to provide an accurate MS-DRG or APR-DRG for appropriate reimbursement.
• Code all accounts within 4 days of the patient's discharge date, meeting productivity standards according to AHIMA Guidelines.
• Verify patient information to identify discrepancies and ensure codes and abstracted information apply to the correct patient's encounter.
• Serve as a quality reviewer to identify documents not belonging to the patient or encounter.
• Ensure accuracy when using appropriate modifiers while coding patient encounters.
• Assess documentation and query physicians for additional information to clarify diagnoses, symptoms, or services provided, following Coding Guidelines and Coding Clinics.
• Utilize codes to reflect care rendered, ensuring patient safety, data accuracy, and appropriate reimbursement.
• Recognize and report unusual circumstances or risk factors to the Coding Associate Administrator or Coding Director.
• Meet continuing education requirements established by AHIMA and/or AAPC to maintain certification and competency.
• Participate in ICD-10-CM-PCS education sessions provided by JHS or approved outside entities.
• Demonstrate competency according to received education.
• Adhere to Standards of Excellence, respecting rights, privacy, and confidentiality of information per HIPAA and applicable laws.
• Demonstrate behaviors of service excellence and CARE values (Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Expertise).
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma is required.
• Employee hired after June 2015 must be credentialed with an HIM/Coding Credential and/or Certification by AHIMA or AAPC.

Experience

Generally requires 0 to 3 years of related experience.

Skills

• Ability to analyze, organize, and prioritize work accurately while meeting multiple deadlines.
• Effective communication in both oral and written form.
• Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with critical thinking and professional composure.
• Understanding and following instructions.
• Exercising sound and independent judgment.
• Knowledge and skill in using job-appropriate technology and software applications.