Inpatient Coder

TEKsystems•Appleton, WI

10d•$35 - $42•Remote

About The Position

We’re seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Inpatient Coder (Coder Inpatient II) to join our Health Information Management team. In this remote role, you will accurately assign ICD diagnosis/procedure codes and MS-DRGs for inpatient hospital services at an academic, Level I Trauma environment. You’ll code across complex specialties (e.g., Neurology, Oncology, Urology, Transplant, OB/Newborn, Orthopedics, Cardiology, Critical Care), collaborate with providers via compliant queries, and partner closely with CDI to ensure documentation supports the most appropriate DRG assignment. This is an advanced, independent role where accuracy, communication, and sound judgment are essential.

Requirements

Minimum 1 year recent inpatient coding at an academic medical center OR 3 years recent hospital inpatient coding
Completion of a Coding Certificate Program or Associate Degree in HIM (or equivalent)
RHIA, RHIT, or CCS
AAPC CIC acceptable (AHIMA preferred)
Strong knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, pathophysiology
Proficient in ICD-10-CM/PCS; familiar with CPT when applicable
Working knowledge of MS-DRG classification
Proficient with Epic, 3M Encoder, and Microsoft Office
Able to pass a timed, open-book coding test
Remote (WFH): Must have a private, closed-door workspace
WI/IL candidates preferred (may be asked to come onsite if needed)
Reliable high-speed internet (speed verification requested during submittal)

Responsibilities

Code inpatient charts across medical/surgical specialties, including complex trauma and acute cases
Assign ICD-10-CM/PCS, MS-DRGs, and POA indicators with a 95%+ accuracy rate
Abstract required data per facility guidelines and quality standards
Write compliant queries independently; collaborate with providers via electronic query process
Partner with CDI to secure optimal documentation supporting accurate DRG assignment
Manage workload from a Work Queue: one inpatient chart at a time; typical pace aligns with quality-first standards (e.g., 4–5 inpatient accounts/day)
Use Epic, 3M Encoder, and Viziant (REM score calculator) to support coding integrity
Meet productivity and quality metrics: monthly audits (10% of charts); contribute to continuous improvement
Support denials management with timely, thorough rebuttals as requested
Code special populations (e.g., rehab, mortality cases) per policy
Adapt to changing priorities while maintaining professional communication and teamwork