Medical Coder

Yakutat Tlingit Tribe•Yakutat, AK

About The Position

The Medical Coder I is an entry-level, training pathway position designed to build internal coding capacity and strengthen Yakutat Community Health Center’s revenue cycle. Under close supervision, the Medical Coder I learns to review clinical documentation and assign accurate medical codes in compliance with CMS, HRSA, IHS, Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial payer requirements. This role is part of YCHC’s workforce development strategy and supports the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, integrated medical and behavioral health services, and Tribal healthcare billing requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
No prior coding experience required.
Experience in healthcare, administrative, or clinical support roles preferred.
Employee must obtain one of the following certifications. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)-AAPC OR Certified Coding Associate (CCA)-AHIMA
Possession or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Alaska with a clean driving record.
Must successfully pass a criminal and background check.
Working knowledge of Medicaid, Medicare, IHS, VA, and related eligibility and referral processes.
Knowledge of HIPAA requirements and familiarity with HRSA, IHS, PCMH, and CARF compliance standards.
Strong communication skills for working with providers and administration.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Basic computer and EHR proficiency.
Work collaboratively across departments.
to learn medical terminology and coding standards.
maintain confidentiality and professional ethics.
Have Cultural awareness and respect for Tribal communities.

Nice To Haves

Coursework or certificate program in medical coding, health information management, or healthcare administration preferred (not required).

Responsibilities

Coding and Documentation (Training-Level Responsibilities)
Learn to review clinical documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR).
Assign basic ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes under supervision.
Apply coding guidelines, modifiers, and place-of-service codes with guidance.
Identify documentation gaps and escalate questions to senior coders or billing staff.
Progressively code primary care, behavioral health, preventive, and telehealth services.
Revenue Cycle Support
Assist with billing staff with claim preparation and review.
Learn FQHC, Tribal, and IHS billing rules, including PPS encounters and UDS reporting.
Support claim corrections and denial resolution under supervision.
Develop understanding of payer requirements and reimbursement methodologies.
Compliance and Quality Improvement
Participate in coding audits and quality assurance activities.
Follow HIPAA, organizational policies, and compliance standards.
Learn CMS, HRSA, and payer regulations related to coding and documentation.
Support continuous improvement in documentation accuracy and coding quality
Collaboration and Communication
Participate in training sessions with providers, nurses, behavioral health staff, and billing teams.
Receive and apply feedback to improve coding accuracy and documentation comprehension.
Support team meetings and performance improvement initiatives.
Other Duties
Must comply with federal laws and regulations as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Performs related duties.