Coder, Orthopedics Department

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc. is seeking a medical coder to review discharged patient records, assign ICD-10-CM and CPT-4 codes, and abstract data into the coding system.

The role requires adherence to official ICD-10-CM guidelines and timely submission to the billing system. Responsibilities include training on updates, resolving documentation issues, and contributing to departmental efficiency through process improvements.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 1-3 years related coding experience required; certification CPC, RHIT, CCS, or CCS-P.
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, disease processes, pharmacology and the ICD-10-CM, CPT-4 coding systems.
• Basic familiarity with computers and ability to navigate web-based applications.

Responsibilities

• Reviews the complete electronic and paper medical record of discharged patients.
• Assigns ICD-10-CM diagnosis and CPT-4 procedure codes from documentation.
• Abstracts coded data and patient information into the coding system used by BIDMC.
• Follows ICD-10-CM/PCS guidelines and uses Coding Clinic for ICD-10-CM official guidance.
• Sequences codes and ensures timely submission to the billing system.
• Participates in training on ICD-10-CM updates and coding guidelines.
• Identifies and helps resolve documentation or abstracting problems.
• Contributes to department efficiency by suggesting process improvements.

Skills

Attention to detail

Written communication

Oral communication

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

Essential Responsibilities

• Reviews the complete electronic and paper medical record of discharged patients.
• Assigns ICD-10-CM diagnosis and procedure codes from documentation in the medical record, when indicated assigns CPT-4 procedure codes.
• Abstracts coded data and patient information into the coding abstracting system in use by BIDMC (information includes attending physician, surgeon, dates of surgery, disposition, discharge date, and infant birth weight etc.).
• Uses the AHA 'Coding Clinic for ICD-10-CM' for official coding guidelines set forth by the ICD-10-CM Coordination and Maintenance Committee.
• Sequences the assigned codes, exercising all principles of assigning ICD-10-CM codes to determine the appropriate selection.
• Prioritizes daily work to ensure timely submission to the billing system.
• Participates in training programs including educational sessions for updates to ICD-10-CM, Coding Clinic Guidelines and learning ICD-10-CM/PCS.
• Follows Policy & Procedure to identify and facilitate prompt resolution of documentation, abstracting and/or other account problems.
• Contributes to efficient department operation by recommending issues/topics for education and changes, which will improve processes.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 1-3 years related work experience required in coding or coding credential of Certified Professional Coder, RHIT, CCS, or CCS-P.
• Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, disease processes, pharmacology and the ICD-10-CM, CPT-4 coding systems.
• Basic familiarity with computers.
• Ability to navigate at a basic level within web-based applications.

Competencies

• Decision Making: Ability to make decisions that are guided by general instructions and practices requiring some interpretation. May make recommendations for solving problems of moderate complexity and importance.
• Problem Solving: Ability to address problems that are varied, requiring analysis or interpretation of the situation using direct observation, knowledge and skills based on general precedents.
• Independence of Action: Ability to follow precedents and procedures. May set priorities and organize work within general guidelines. Seeks assistance when confronted with difficult and/or unpredictable situations. Work progress is monitored by supervisor/manager.
• Written Communications: Ability to summarize and communicate in English moderately complex information in varied written formats to internal and external customers.
• Oral Communications: Ability to comprehend and communicate complex verbal information in English to medical center staff, patients, families and external customers.
• Knowledge: Ability to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of concepts, practices and policies with the ability to use them in complex varied situations.
• Team Work: Ability to work collaboratively in small teams to improve the operations of immediate work group by offering ideas, identifying issues, and respecting team members.
• Customer Service: Ability to provide a high level of customer service to patients, visitors, staff and external customers in a professional, service-oriented, respectful manner using skills in active listening and problem solving. Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.

Physical Nature of the Job

Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally in carrying, lifting, pushing, pulling objects. Sitting most of the time, with walking and standing required only occasionally.

Pay Range

$27.03 - $43.25 The pay range listed for this position is the base hourly wage range the organization reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for this position at this time. Actual compensation is determined based on several factors, that may include seniority, education, training, relevant experience, relevant certifications, geography of work location, job responsibilities, or other applicable factors permissible by law. Compensation may exceed the base hourly rate depending on shift differentials, call pay, premium pay, overtime pay, and other additional pay practices, as applicable to the position and in accordance with the law.

Background and Culture

As a health care organization, we have a responsibility to do everything in our power to care for and protect our patients, our colleagues and our communities. Beth Israel Lahey Health requires that all staff be vaccinated against influenza (flu) as a condition of employment. More than 35,000 people working together. Nurses, doctors, technicians, therapists, researchers, teachers and more, making a difference in patients’ lives. Your skill and compassion can make us even stronger.

Equal Opportunity Employer and Diversity Statement

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled At Beth Israel Lahey Health, we are driving the change in health care that Massachusetts wants and needs. Our culture promotes continuous learning, growth, innovation and a sense of belonging. We make it a priority to offer comprehensive compensation and benefits and help you achieve a healthy and balanced life. While you're busy caring for and supporting our patients, we take care of you.