ED Professional Coder Job Description Template
The ED Professional Coder is responsible for accurately coding and billing for emergency department services. This role ensures compliance with all coding guidelines and optimizes revenue for the services rendered. The coder works closely with healthcare providers to ensure proper documentation and coding practices.
Responsibilities
- Review and analyze medical records to assign appropriate codes for E/M services, procedures, and diagnoses.
- Ensure coding compliance with federal, state, and payer-specific regulations.
- Work with healthcare providers to resolve coding discrepancies and documentation issues.
- Educate staff and providers on proper coding and documentation practices.
- Conduct audits and provide feedback to improve coding accuracy.
- Stay updated on changes in coding guidelines and industry standards.
Qualifications
- Certification in medical coding (CPC, COC, CCS, or equivalent).
- At least 2 years of experience in emergency department coding.
- Thorough understanding of ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems.
- Strong knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy.
- Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Skills
- ICD-10
- CPT
- HCPCS
- Medical Terminology
- E/M Coding
- Coding Compliance
- Auditing
- Medical Records Analysis
- Documentation Improvement
- Healthcare Regulations
Frequently Asked Questions
An Emergency Department (ED) Professional Coder is responsible for translating healthcare services into standardized medical codes used for billing purposes. This includes reviewing patient records, assigning appropriate ICD and CPT codes, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the hospital or healthcare facility receives accurate reimbursement from insurance companies.
To become an ED Professional Coder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or GED, followed by specialized training in medical coding. Many earn a coding certification, such as the CPC or CCS, which enhances job prospects. Hands-on experience in a healthcare setting, particularly in emergency services, can be beneficial. Continuing education is also important to stay updated with coding standards.
The average salary for an ED Professional Coder can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and education. Generally, professional coders can expect a competitive salary in the healthcare sector. Certified coders may earn more due to their specialized knowledge and ability to efficiently handle complex coding tasks, impacting insurance reimbursements and hospital revenue.
Qualifications for an ED Professional Coder include a thorough understanding of medical terminologies, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT. A certification such as Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) is often required, showcasing the coder's proficiency and commitment to accurate medical coding, which is critical for effective billing processes.
An ED Professional Coder requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in medical coding. They must accurately assign codes to medical services in a fast-paced emergency department setting. Responsibilities also include verifying data, ensuring compliance with regulations, and effectively communicating with healthcare professionals to clarify documentation and coding queries.