HIM Coder III

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Accountable for the prompt and precise coding and abstraction of inpatient visits.

• Codes and abstracts patient records in accordance with established coding standards using ICD-10 code sets.

• This role ensures that objectives related to revenue cycle, customer service, quality, both individual and team goals are achieved.

• Conducts a thorough review of inpatient encounter documentation for diagnoses, treatments, and services.

• Executes daily coding and abstracting using ICD-10 code sets and DRG grouping systems.

• Validates the appropriateness of MS-DRG and APR-DRG assignments for each encounter.

• Engages in weekly coding of inpatient interim bill requests.

• Reviews notes and queries from clinical documentation specialists to ensure the capture of queried conditions.

• Confirms admission diagnosis assignments and coordinates corrections with case management personnel when necessary.

• Identifies documentation issues that may result in inaccurate coding, billing, and quality metrics.

• Communicates issues to clinical documentation specialists for clarification and/or resolution as needed.

• Facilitates accurate reporting of hospital-acquired conditions in collaboration with infection control and/or coordinates retrospective queries with the CDI team as appropriate.

• Conducts research or seeks assistance from Nosology, CHA, and the American Hospital Association on complex coding cases.

• Documents findings and provides education to the team on coding guidelines.

• Makes recommendations regarding Epic coding and service edits to prevent issues in coding, billing, IHA, and claim edits.

• Upholds quality standards set by AHA, AMA, CMS, OIG, and TJC concerning coding and reimbursement.

• Remains updated on coding changes by engaging in reading, maintaining CEUs, and attending educational sessions related to coding and health information management.

• Trains and orients new employees.

• Assists with testing and implementing system or product changes and upgrades.

• Performs additional duties as assigned by the coding manager or director.

⛳️ Requirements

• Must hold a minimum of CCS, RHIA, or RHIT credentials.

• Must maintain credential status by fulfilling continuing education requirements.

• Must have completed and consistently demonstrate proficiency in the coding program curriculum, which includes full courses in Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Sciences, Pharmacology, ICD-10-CM, CPT, and Healthcare Data Content Structures.

• Completion of an AHIMA-approved RHIT, RHIA, or CCS program is required.

• Must pass Lurie Children’s coding exam with a minimum score of 90%.

• A minimum of one year of prior hospital coding experience is required.

• Inpatient APR DRG experience is preferred.

• Must have a working proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and possess computer skills to efficiently navigate an EMR.

• Must be capable of typing at least 30 words per minute.

• Must be able to communicate effectively with all Lurie staff, including clinical, clerical, and management personnel.

• Excellent communication skills are essential for interaction at all staff levels.

• Must communicate effectively with external contacts, including outside vendors as required for problem-solving activities and assisting patients/visitors with their needs.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ability to prioritize tasks appropriately.

• Ability to handle the inherent pressures of a results-driven, deadline-oriented position.

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Employer-paid group term life and disability coverage.

• Employer contribution towards a Health Savings Account.

• Flexible Spending Accounts.

• Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays, and paid parental leave.

• 403(b) plan with a 5% employer match.

• Various voluntary benefits including supplemental life, AD&D, and disability insurance.

• Coverage for critical illness, accidents, and hospital indemnity.

• Tuition assistance.

• Support for student loan servicing.

• Adoption benefits.

• Backup childcare and eldercare services.

• Employee Assistance Program and other specialized behavioral health services and resources for employees and their family members.

• Discounts on services at Lurie Children’s facilities.

• Discount purchasing program.