Position Summary

The Coder determines the appropriate ICD-10-CM, CPT, CDT, and HCPCS codes for providers and facility services based on clinical documentation. Professional component coding of an inpatient facility, outpatient facility, non-facility and/or professional fee agreements, and/or the facility/technical component. The coder will effectively carry out charge entry for outreach billing. Orthopedic Coding experience preferred, but not required.

The Coder’s decisions and actions with patients and families are determined in an ethical manner practicing compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth and unique attributes of each person. Effectively communicates with patients/families, visitors, colleagues, physicians, leadership, and volunteers. All areas of work are provided to achieve and maintain top decile results and outcomes for patient experience, quality, and patient safety. The Coder follows and adheres to ARHS policies and procedures, regulatory requirements, and standards of behavior.

The Coder demonstrates the ARHS Mission, Vision, and Values in action and approaches work in a way that reflects a bias for action, efficiency, and personal accountability. The Coder demonstrates professional conduct, effective communication, and effective delegation of tasks. Effectively and professionally manages working relationships with coworkers, physicians, and all ARHS team members in a way that promotes a healthy work environment. Performs duties under general supervision. Always assists coworkers, patients, families, and visitors regardless of the patient assignment, so long as the assistance is in-line with their scope of practice.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities

• The Coding Specialist determines the appropriate ICD-10-CM, CPT, CDT, and HCPCS codes for providers and facility services based on clinical documentation.
• Reviews information available in the electronic medical record and/or paper record to accurately code the episode of care. Uses available encoder, grouper software, and other coding resources to determine the appropriate ICD-10-CM, CPT, and/or HCPCS including Evaluation and Management (E&M) codes.
• Maintain an understanding and apply knowledge of National Correct Coding Initiatives (NCCI), Local Coverage Documents and National Coverage Documents (LCD/NCD) directives, Medically Unlikely Edits (MUEs), and Medicare Teaching Physician Guidelines, applying knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements and institutional guidelines to select appropriate codes and modifiers.
• Actively participate in, and, maintains coding quality and productivity processes.
• Communicate directly with physician and non-physician providers to resolve conflicting provider documentation to establish cause and effect relationships between conditions and further specify diagnoses and procedures documented within the medical record.
• Resolve payer denials and respond to inquiries from revenue cycle teams, processing charge corrections as appropriate.
• Navigate software workflows and processes to identify and resolve appropriate electronic rules and create efficiencies.

Position Qualifications

Minimum Education

• High school diploma or equivalent; Graduate of Medical Coding program required; Associate degree in related field preferred.

Experience

• 2 years of coding experience required.

Required Registration/License/Certification

• AHIMA or AAPC coding certification required

• Specialty coding certification through AAPC preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to communicate courteously and effectively with the public, patients, family, staff, and physician and acts within the chain of command, utilizing positive verbal and non-verbal skills

• Competent in delivering safe and effective patient care within legal limits of license and certifications and hospital policies and procedures

• Knowledge of the continuum of care provided in the patient care department

• Ability to demonstrate exceptional customer service to patients, family, staff, and physicians

Physical Demands

• Lifts, positions, pushes, pulls, and/or transfers up to and greater than 30 pounds

• Manual dexterity and mobility

• Prolonged, extensive or considerable sitting/standing/walking

• Bending, squatting, twisting, and turning

• Near acuity: ability to see clearly at 20 inches or less

Working Conditions

• Infrequently exposed to the risk of bloodborne diseases

• Infrequently exposed to hazards from electrical/mechanical/power equipment, odorous chemicals and specimens, and unpleasant elements (accident, injury, slippery surfaces, uneven surfaces), etc.

• May be subject to irregular hours (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays) and emergencies

• Continuous sitting, standing and walking long periods = to or greater than > 8 hours per shift

• Speaking, reading, and writing, expanded > 8 hours per day

• Exposed to vibration and cramped spaces

• Infrequently lifts, carries, pushes, and/or pulls > 30 lbs.

• May bend, squat, kneel, twist, turn, and reach during the course of their shift

• Frequently per minute: hand, finger, and wrist repetition and moderate dexterity

• Frequently per hour: exposed to close eye work

• Infrequently may be exposed to ionizing/nonionizing radiation exposure, including x-ray and microwave

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Benefits

• Employee Choice Health Plans – 3 plans tailored to fit your life.
• Dental & Vision Plan Options.
• Retirement – ARHS offers both pre-tax and post-tax ROTH contribution with a robust employer match.
• Parental Leave – Eligible employees can take two weeks of paid parental leave anytime during the first six months following the birth or adoption of a child.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Employee Wellness Program.

About Appalachian Regional Healthcare System
Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (ARHS) is the leading healthcare system in the High Country of North Carolina. Committed to building a healthier community and simply Making Life Better, ARHS offers access to three hospitals, thirteen medical offices and twenty-two outpatient services. ARHS strives to continuously provide all members of the community with access to the best possible medical treatment, illness prevention, research, and wellness education. Visit apprhs.org for more information.

About UNC Health
UNC Health is a state entity and an affiliated enterprise of the University of North Carolina system, comprised of 14 hospitals, 18 hospital campuses and more than 500 clinics along with the clinical patient care programs of the UNC School of Medicine (SOM). It exists to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others we serve and to further the teaching mission of the University of North Carolina SOM. Over the past three years, UNC Health has provided more than $400 million in uncompensated or charity care to the citizens of North Carolina. Our hospitals have received numerous awards and recognition for quality care, patient safety and the overall patient experience. For more information, please visit unchealth.org

About the Area
Big-city cultural attractions and small-town warmth merge in Boone, NC and its neighboring communities. Home to Appalachian State University, the High Country offers an abundance of activities for everyone to enjoy. Take a ride on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, head to the slopes for a day of skiing during the winter, or visit the small village of Blowing Rock, located just ten miles from Boone, and enjoy fine dining and shopping. There is so much to explore in the High Country. Come start your adventure today.

Appalachian Regional Healthcare System is committed to equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Discrimination and harassment of any type is prohibited

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