Hospital Coding Specialist III - Remote Opportunity at WVU Medicine

Role Overview

The Hospital Coding Specialist III plays a vital role in ensuring the accurate and compliant coding of medical records at WVU Medicine. This remote position focuses on both inpatient and interventional radiology (IRAD) coding, requiring a deep understanding of coding guidelines, medical terminology, and anatomy. The specialist is responsible for reviewing medical record documentation, assigning appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT codes, and ensuring accurate MS-DRG assignment for reimbursement purposes. Accuracy and attention to detail are paramount in this role, as the coding directly impacts the hospital's revenue cycle and compliance with regulatory requirements.

A Day in the Life of a Hospital Coding Specialist III

A typical day for a Hospital Coding Specialist III involves a mix of reviewing medical records, assigning codes, and communicating with physicians and other healthcare professionals. The day starts with accessing the electronic health record (EHR) system to retrieve a list of assigned patient accounts. The specialist then carefully reviews each medical record, paying close attention to physician notes, operative reports, and lab results. Using their knowledge of coding guidelines, they assign the appropriate ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT codes to reflect the patient's diagnoses and procedures. Throughout the day, the specialist may encounter complex cases that require further investigation. They may need to query physicians for clarification on diagnoses or procedures, or consult with coding supervisors or other experts to ensure accurate coding. The specialist also stays up-to-date on coding changes and regulatory updates through continuing education and professional development activities. In addition to coding, the specialist is also responsible for abstracting data from the medical record for reporting purposes. This data is used to track patient outcomes, identify trends, and improve the quality of care. The specialist also works closely with the billing department to ensure that claims are submitted accurately and in a timely manner.

Why Remote Work?

This Hospital Coding Specialist III position is a remote opportunity, offering a flexible and convenient work arrangement. Remote work allows the specialist to work from the comfort of their own home, eliminating the need to commute and providing a better work-life balance. WVU Medicine is committed to providing the resources and support needed for remote employees to be successful.

Career Path

The Hospital Coding Specialist III role provides a solid foundation for career advancement within the health information management field. With experience and further education, the specialist can advance to positions such as coding supervisor, coding manager, or clinical documentation improvement specialist. WVU Medicine offers opportunities for professional development and career growth, including tuition reimbursement and mentorship programs.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for a Hospital Coding Specialist III at WVU Medicine is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement savings plan. Specific salary details will be discussed during the interview process. This salary range is estimated between $50,000 and $75,000, depending on experience and certifications.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to providing a positive and supportive work environment for all employees. The organization values teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the success of the organization. WVU Medicine is also committed to diversity and inclusion, and strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

How to Apply

To apply for the Hospital Coding Specialist III position, please submit your resume and cover letter through the WVU Medicine career website. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, including your coding certifications and experience with ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT coding. In your cover letter, explain why you are interested in working for WVU Medicine and how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the required certifications for this position? The position requires certification in one of the following: RHIT, RHIA, CCS, COC-A, COC, Formerly CPC-H, or CIC.
2. What is the minimum experience required? A minimum of three (3) years of hospital inpatient coding or interventional radiology (IRAD) hospital coding experience is required.
3. Is this a remote position? Yes, this is a remote position.
4. What are the main responsibilities of this role? The main responsibilities include coding inpatient and/or IRAD charts, reviewing medical record documentation, assigning codes, and ensuring accurate MS-DRG assignment.
5. What kind of support is available for remote employees? WVU Medicine provides the resources and support needed for remote employees to be successful.
6. What are the opportunities for career advancement? With experience and further education, the specialist can advance to positions such as coding supervisor, coding manager, or clinical documentation improvement specialist.
7. Does WVU Medicine offer tuition reimbursement? Yes, WVU Medicine offers tuition reimbursement for continuing education and professional development.
8. What is the work culture like at WVU Medicine? WVU Medicine is committed to providing a positive and supportive work environment, valuing teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
9. How does the coding specialist stay updated with coding changes? The coding specialist stays up-to-date on coding changes and regulatory updates through continuing education and professional development activities, quality review, and participation in meetings and seminars.
10. Who does the coding specialist communicate with in this role? The coding specialist communicates with physicians and other healthcare professionals to obtain information required for accurate coding and facilitates the billing process.