Health Information Coder-Inpatient/Outpatient/Clinic

Job Description

Job Description

Inpatient/Outpatient Coder

At Ashe Memorial Hospital, we are driven by our mission:
“To meet the needs of the community by delivering patient-centered, high quality health care.”

Ashe Memorial Hospital is proud to have been voted Ashe’s Best Place to Work in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Join a team recognized throughout the community for excellence in healthcare, including awards for Best Hospital, Best Surgeon, Best Physician, Best Nurse, and Best Medical Practice. This is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a close-knit mountain community.

Position Details

• Position: Inpatient/Outpatient Coder
• Schedule: Full-Time
• Location: On-site at Ashe Memorial Hospital in Jefferson, NC
• Remote Work: This is a remote or hybrid position 
• Supervisory Responsibilities: None
• Travel Requirements: None
• Compensation: Pay commensurate with experience

Position Summary

The Inpatient/Outpatient Coder is responsible for accurately coding diagnoses, procedures, and services for inpatient and outpatient encounters in accordance with nationally recognized coding standards and regulatory guidelines. This role utilizes the 3M Encoder system along with ICD-10-CM and CPT coding resources to ensure accurate documentation, billing integrity, and reimbursement optimization.

The ideal candidate will possess strong attention to detail, coding expertise, and the ability to collaborate effectively with providers and hospital departments to support accurate clinical documentation and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Associate degree preferred
• CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) or CPC (Certified Professional Coder) certification required

Experience & Regulatory Requirements

• CCS certification through AHIMA or CPC certification through AAPC required
• Minimum of two (2) years of hospital coding experience preferred
• Familiarity with ICD-10-CM coding principles for acute care facilities and outpatient services preferred
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with physicians and clinical staff preferred
• Working knowledge of current coding regulations, reimbursement methodologies, and compliance standards
• Commitment to maintaining knowledge of coding updates, rule changes, and industry best practices

Essential Functions

• Accurately code inpatient, emergency department, outpatient, and clinic records within established departmental timelines
• Review medical records thoroughly to identify all relevant diagnoses, procedures, and supporting documentation
• Ensure coding accuracy and compliance with ICD-10-CM, CPT, and nationally recognized coding guidelines
• Utilize computerized coding and abstracting systems efficiently and accurately
• Communicate professionally with physicians and providers to obtain clarification or additional documentation when necessary
• Ensure recurring charts are coded by the first of each month
• Minimize unbilled account delays and resolve coding-related issues promptly
• Utilize coding references and tools, including CPT Assistant and other regulatory resources
• Maintain ethical coding standards and compliance with all federal and state regulations
• Support data integrity and optimize reimbursement under applicable payment systems
• Serve as a coding and medical necessity resource for hospital staff and physician offices
• Maintain positive working relationships with medical staff and interdepartmental teams
• Stay current on coding updates, payer requirements, and regulatory changes
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Candidate Expectations

We are seeking a team-oriented professional who demonstrates collaboration, professionalism, and a positive representation of Ashe Memorial Hospital. The ideal candidate values teamwork, accountability, and exceptional service while supporting the mission of providing outstanding care to our community.

Additional Requirements

• Must be willing to receive all required vaccinations as a condition of employment unless an approved exemption has been granted
• Criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening required upon conditional offer of employment

Application Instructions

To apply, please complete an employment application and attach:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Employment history including explanations for gaps in employment and reasons for separation

Benefits

Benefits become effective the first of the month following employment , in accordance with hospital policy.

For a full job description and complete benefits information, please contact Human Resources.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ashe Memorial Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants based on qualifications, experience, and ability to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities without compromising patient care. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.