University of Utah Job Description
Job Summary
The Outpatient/Provider Coder Level 1 position is the entry position in the outpatient/provider coding job family. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, coding of outpatient clinic and provider services for professional and/or facility billing. This position uses coding knowledge to abstract and record data from medical records.
Qualifications
Minimum one year experience in a health care field or medical setting OR at least six months coding coursework. Basic knowledge of clinical documentation, proficiency with computer software such as Microsoft Word and Excel, and effective human relations and communication skills are also required.
Incumbents may be required to obtain an American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) recognized certification within 6 months of hire.
This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated requirements. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Disclaimer
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Essential Functions
1. Reconciles clinic or provider visits and reports on missing, incomplete, or inconsistent documentation by contacting appropriate personnel
2. Reviews and abstracts information from patient records and assigns appropriate coding classification
3. Examines and resolves basic coding rejections, which includes contacting payers, writing appeal letters, and reviewing payer guidelines
4. Evaluates data on charge sheets
5. Interacts with appropriate contacts on billing related issues and charge sheets
6. Uses and applies basic regulatory guidelines as instructed by supervisors, or other coding personnel
7. Assures adherence to department quality and productivity standards
8. Communicates and coordinates with external departments as needed
9. May resolve suspended charges in the editing system
Problem Solving
This position works under direct supervision. Incumbents work closely with co-workers, supervisors, and coding or clinic managers and may also work with auditors, both internal and external.
Comments
Incumbents in this position must maintain their Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) as required by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.
