Medical Coder - Emergency Department
About The Position
The Medical Coder - Emergency Department codes facility outpatient emergency services for Optum. The coder assigns ICD-10 codes, CPT codes, and modifiers in accordance with official coding guidelines and facility-specific client guidelines, while maintaining coding ethics and required standards for quality and productivity. The role requires understanding Medicare Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) codes, professional ER leveling, NCCI edits, and Medicare LCD and NCD policies. The coder also queries physicians when appropriate, maintains current coding knowledge, and participates in department meetings and educational events. This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours. Occasional overtime may be required. The position can be performed remotely from anywhere in the U.S., subject to telecommuting requirements, including a private dedicated workspace and an approved high-speed internet connection. The hourly pay range is $20.00 to $36.00, based on factors including local labor markets, education, work experience, and certifications.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Professional coder certification from AHIMA and/or AAPC, such as CCA, CCS, RHIA, RHIT, CPC-H/COC, CIC, CCS-P, or CPC; certification must be maintained annually.
- At least 2 years of experience with ICD-10, CPT, facility charging, and modifiers.
- At least 2 years of Emergency Room coding experience.
- Intermediate-level experience using a PC in a Windows environment, including creating and editing spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel and working with various EMR systems.
- Intermediate-level attention to detail, accuracy, and communication.
- For telecommuting: a dedicated, private work area; ability to secure sensitive company documents, if applicable; and residence in a location with UnitedHealth Group-approved high-speed internet or access to an existing high-speed internet service.
- Adherence to UnitedHealth Group's Telecommuter Policy.
- Must pass a drug test before beginning employment.
Responsibilities
- Assign ICD-10 codes, CPT codes, and modifiers for facility services in accordance with official coding guidelines and the assigned facility's client coding guidelines.
- Adhere to AAPC and/or AHIMA coding ethical standards.
- Meet Optum's established coding quality and productivity requirements.
- Apply knowledge of Medicare Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) codes.
- Query physicians and use forms when appropriate.
- Maintain up-to-date coding knowledge using materials recommended or distributed by coding and quality management leaders.
- Participate in coding department meetings and educational events.
- Carry out additional responsibilities identified by the manager.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Incentive and recognition programs, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Equity stock purchase, subject to eligibility requirements.
- 401(k) contribution, subject to eligibility requirements.
- Career development opportunities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
