Job Summary:

Codes predominantly Emergency Department and ED Observation records in accordance with all regulatory guidelines. Responsible for assigning both CPT procedure codes and ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes when applicable. Receives and reviews ED reports on a daily basis (unbilled accounts, LCD s) to identify and correct accounts held for edits or missing information to identify and correct accounts held for edits or missing information. Codes information provided by referring physician for outpatients for the purpose of reimbursement. Verifies appropriateness of ICD-10 codes with CPT codes and / or charges. Refers identified issues to appropriate charge generating departments as appropriate.

Location: Hybrid position - first 3 weeks will be on site at Clara Maass M-F 8am-4:30pm for training. After training is completed the split will be 3-4 days/week remote and 1-2 days/week on site.

Hours: M-F 8am-4:30pm

Job Responsibilities:

CODING ACCURACY

Accurately codes all ICD 10 diagnoses appropriately for each patient in accordance with established coding policies and guidelines maintaining an acceptable level of quality (90% accuracy minimum average.)

QUERY

Thoroughly, accurately and appropriately queries the physician to resolve any ambiguities and/or inconsistencies in the medical record to obtain the most accurate diagnosis. Discusses cases with physicians, as appropriate. Utilizes the Circle-Back / Faxing process for questions on Non-Medicare/Non-Medicaid charts. Refers coding and/or documentation issues to the Quality Officer or Coding Supervisor, as appropriate.

COMPUTERIZATION/DATA ABSTRACTING

Knowledgeable in and employs the full use of the Encoder to proficiently select codes to assign the most appropriate APC. Utilizes all computerized resources available to ensure coding accuracy. Accurately abstracts all patient information as per the department s policies and procedures.

POLICY & PROCEDURE

Facilitates and expedites all necessary functions to ensure the timely completion of all coding. Follows all departmental and Corporate Compliance policies and procedures relate to coding. Performs other duties as assigned.

LCD /EXCPTION REPORT REVIEW/CODING QUEUES

Reviews reports with the timely completion of the appropriate changes and/or corrections when directed.

Job Requirements:

• Must read, write and speak English. High school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge and experience of ICD-10-CM and CPT coding with 2 years of coding experience preferred. Completion of the following courses required: Medical Terminology, Human Anatomy and Physiology and Disease Process. Completion of the following courses preferred: Pharmacology and Pathology. Knowledge of Ambulatory Payment Classifications (APCs) and Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) preferred.
• AAS degree or clinical background preferred. Licensure/Certification/Registration: Must obtain CCS, CPC or CCS-P within 1 year of employment.
• Successful completion of on-site personnel general orientation. Successful completion of department specific orientation.
• Must attend the Corporate Compliance coding school/Education sessions.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral and written communication and organizational skills required. Must maintain a professional demeanor. Must display a proven analytical capability and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Medical and broad based clinical emergency medicine knowledge
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent time management skills
• Ability to effectively and successfully work with all ICU and hospital employees

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

RWJBarnabas Health is the most comprehensive health care delivery system in New Jersey, with a service area covering five million people. The system includes eleven acute care hospitals Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, Community Medical Center in Toms River, Jersey City Medical Center in Jersey City, Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, RWJUH- New Brunswick, RWJUH- Somerset in Somerville, RWJUH- Hamilton, RWJUH- Rahway and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston; three acute care children s hospitals and a leading pediatric rehabilitation hospital (Children s Specialized Hospital), a freestanding 100-bed behavioral health center, trauma centers, a satellite emergency department, ambulatory care centers, geriatric centers, the state s largest behavioral health network, comprehensive home care and hospice programs, fitness and wellness centers, retail pharmacy services, a medical group, multi-site imaging centers and an accountable care organization.

We offer a great work environment, competitive rates and excellent benefits, including:

• Medical/Dental/Vision plans
• 401 (k)
• PTO
• Short & Long Term Disability
• Basic Life & Accidental Death Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts