Coder 1 - Clinic

FMOLHS•Baton Rouge, LA

About The Position

The Clinic Coder 1 abstracts clinical information from medical records, charts, and other documents and assigns appropriate ICD-10 and/or CPT-4 codes to patient records according to established procedures. The role applies standard concepts and practices, follows instructions and pre-established guidelines, and works under close supervision. The coder may work with coding databases and confirm DRG assignments. The position codes and abstracts records for ambulatory surgery, treatment-type admissions, observation, emergency room, and outpatient laboratory and radiology services. It also supports accurate health information management, coding-related reimbursement clarification, quality review, and required education and training.

Requirements

One year of experience in medical coding; AAPC Professional Coder-Apprentice (CPC-A) certification may substitute for the required experience.
High school education or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Determine the sequencing of diseases, diagnoses, and surgeries, and assign appropriate ICD-10-CM and CPT-4 codes to patient records according to applicable guidelines.
Abstract data elements, including discharge disposition, consultants, anesthesiologists, and operating room assistants, and verify the correct status of outpatient records.
Communicate with appropriate HIM staff when records have missing information.
Assist the Business Office and external agencies with coding clarification related to reimbursement issues, handling requests in a timely manner.
Maintain an accuracy rate of at least 93% based on internal and/or external review and productivity standards.
Identify and help resolve problems, and assist with data gathering and chart auditing.
Demonstrate patient/customer service competencies, obtain information about customer needs, and speak positively and professionally about coworkers, physicians, and the facility.
Attend required meetings and participate actively in meeting topics.
Participate in required educational programs, in-services, and training sessions; when appropriate, share expertise to support the education and growth of new personnel, volunteers, and interns.
Perform other duties as assigned or requested.