Coder

Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 53,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & Wellness

Work-Life Balance

Financial Wellness

Professional Development

Additional Perks

Job summary

Howard University in Washington, DC is seeking a Certified Medical Coder to review and code procedures for Medicare, Medicaid and private payers, ensuring compliance with coding guidelines.

This role requires CPMA/CPC/CCS-P certification, a formal coding program and strong knowledge of ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS, with attention to detail and collaboration with providers.

Qualifications

• Certification as CPMA, CPC, or CCS-P required.
• Completion of a formal coding program; coding certification may be considered in lieu of prior experience.
• Background in medical environment and knowledge of medical terminology; understanding of federal/state rules preferred.

Responsibilities

• Verifies final diagnoses and procedures are valid and complete.
• Reviews medical records for completeness; contacts providers for clarifications as needed.
• Codes charges for departments such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Ophthalmology, OB/GYN, and Pulmonary.
• Analyzes records to assign correct ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS codes.
• Translates policy and legislation into coding inputs for systems.
• Collaborates with providers and reports documentation issues to management.

Skills

ICD-10-CM coding

CPT coding

HCPCS coding

Medical terminology

Attention to detail

Education

Formal coding program

Coding certifications

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

JOB PURPOSE:

The Certified Medical Coder is responsible to review, analyze and code procedural information that determines Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance payments. The Certified Professional Coder ensures compliance with established coding guidelines, third party reimbursement policies, regulations and accreditation guidelines.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Assures the final diagnoses and operative procedures as stated by the providers are valid and complete.
• Analyzes medical records for completeness and validity of documentation and contacts providers for clarification of any incomplete, ambiguous, or conflicting documentation.
• Codes charges for assigned departments such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Ophthalmology, OB/GYN, and Pulmonary.
• Performs accurate analysis of medical records to obtain necessary information for the appropriate sequencing and assignment of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes.
• Translates written policy interpretation into ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes for input into systems.
• Translates legislative mandates into ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes for input into systems.
• Collaborates with providers in assigned areas and provides feedback to management regarding documentation issues or recurring errors.
• Utilizes software applications and information systems to perform tasks related to patient encounters and/or services.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Expert knowledge of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Working knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial payer reimbursement policies, HIPAA, and applicable federal and state billing regulations.
• Accuracy and attention to detail in reviewing clinical documentation and assigning codes.
• Analytical and critical-thinking skills to identify documentation gaps and resolve coding discrepancies.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Recognized certifications as Certified Professional Medical Auditor (CPMA); Certified Professional Coder (CPC); or Certified Coder Specialist – Physician (CCS-P).
• Completion of a formal coding program plus coding certification may be considered in lieu of prior professional coding experience. A background in a medical environment and extensive knowledge of medical terminology are required. An understanding of Federal and State rules and regulations as they relate to physician billing is preferred.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Pay Range: $53,000 to $57,000