Medical Coder

Essential Responsibilities:

Proficient in medical record review and translating clinical information into coded data. Identify and assign appropriate codes for diagnoses, procedures and other services rendered, while also validating any Computer Assisted Coded (CAC) assignments for dual coding. Utilizing the Code Base Charge Trigger system (CBCT) and OPTUM 360 EncoderPRO software system for professional surgical services, analyzing and maintaining systems accuracy, validity and meaningfulness for both professional and facility services. Utilizes electronic patient data system and clinical information system (EpicCare) to access patient encounter information. Abstracts and enters clinical data elements as defined by the needs of the organization. Identifies and assigns principal diagnosis and procedure codes, sequencing them as needed for proper Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC), Medicare Severity-Drug Related Group (MS-DRG), All Patients Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR-DRG) assignment, utilizing applicable coding conventions. Demonstrates knowledge and understand of CMS HCC Risk Adjustment coding.

Routinely performs chart analysis to identify areas of the medical record that contain incomplete, inaccurate or inconsistent documentation. Reviews and verifies chart information (i.e. POS, attending provider). Assesses and inputs data. Reviews and verifies component parts of medical records to ensure completeness and accuracy of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that must conform to CMS coding rules and guidelines. Meets and maintains department standards 95% for productivity and quality.

Fully utilizes resources available such as, Coding Clinic and CPT Assistant to research issues to apply coding guidelines. Identifies coding concerns and informs supervisors, managers as appropriate. Utilizes query process when appropriate. Assists in implementing solutions to reduce back-end coding errors. Stays current on coding and regulatory publications, attends workshops to stay abreast of current issues, trends, changes in the laws and regulations governing medical record coding and documentation to mitigate the risk of fraud and abuse and to optimize revenue recovery.

May assist with special projects. Maintain confidentiality and effective working relationships with staff. Communicate in a clear and understandable manner, exercises independent judgment. Reviews annual ICD-10 Official Guidelines for Coding, along with review of quarterly Coding Clinic and monthly CPT Assistant. Performs as a team member of Facility Coding Services, and actively participates with peers coding in-services, staff meetings, reporting of performance measures, and quality outcome monitors. May participate in development of organizational procedures. Attends and participates in selected national and regional coding education sessions. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Basic Qualifications:

Experience

Minimum two (2) years experience in a directly related coding field or 18 months within the Kaiser Apprentice program.

Education

High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED) required.

License, Certification, Registration The candidate must have 1 from the following list:

Registered Health Information Technician Certificate

Registered Health Information Administrator Certificate

Certified Coding Specialist