Under the general direction of the Manager, this position codes diagnosis and procedures for assigned cases. In performing the coding requirements this position is required to utilize knowledge of UCLA, AHA - Coding Clinic, and AMA - CPT Assistant guidelines, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathological basis of disease, documented treatment, and procedures. Assigns ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT-4/HCPCS codes for patient receiving services at UCLA Healthcare. Correctly assigns DRG and all applicable APCs for all patients to assure accurate reimbursement and the highest quality data possible. Abstracts all coded data in a timely and accurate manner into the abstracting system. Has a working knowledge of all State and National reporting requirements. Provides information on coding question trends, and issues that affect the coder-physician communication process and follow up on queries to physicians to address coding deficiencies. Reconciles discrepancies between coded physician encounter forms and HIM coding and works on denials. As a Specialized Coder, the incumbent is responsible for utilizing a highly specialized and complex set of knowledge, skills, and appropriate credentials to perform (i.e., Nuc Med and PET visits).
Salary Range: $56.95-$70.81/hourly
Qualifications
Required:
CCS, CCS-P, CPC, or CPC-H
A Minimum of 3 years of experience with surgical procedural coding and ambulatory care coding. Proficiency in ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS and CPT-4/HCPCS and modifier usage and working knowledge of APC payment methodologies, AHA Coding Clinic and CPT Assistant
A Minimum of five (5) years of acute multi-specialty hospital coding experience
A minimum of two (2) years of pro-fee coding and facility coding experience
Experience as a Medical Record Abstractor
Knows anatomy, physiology, disease process, and medical terminology
Able to lead other staff and effectively function as a technical resource
Detailed knowledge of Medical Terminology and its application
Detailed knowledge and understanding of ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems
Superior ability to research coding guidelines and payor policies
Previous EPIC experience
Computer proficiency with MS Office
Demonstrated ability to work with all internal and external customers in a professional manner. Ability to assist in orientation and training of new employees and students. Provide guidance and training for new / trainee coders
Preferred:
Minimum of three (3) or more years of medical coding experience
Working experience with Nuclear Medicine guidelines preferred
Knowledge of CMS and local carrier regulations and guidelines for teaching hospitals preferred
Additional specialty certification
Associate in Health Information Science or Bachelor in Health Information Management, or completion of courses in ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS and CPT-4/HCPCS coding from an accredited coding program or comparable level of education
At UCLA Health, you can help heal humankind, one patient at a time by improving health, alleviating suffering and delivering acts of kindness. As you do, you’ll achieve great things in your life and your career. We’re a world-class health organization with four hospitals consistently recognized among the nation’s very best as well as an internationally-renowned medical school, primary and specialty care clinics and much more. Within our dynamic, innovative and growing organization, you’ll find exceptional opportunities to make the most of your abilities in a supportive, empowering and inclusive environment. If you embrace our values of Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Teamwork, Excellence and Discovery we invite you to see all you can accomplish at UCLA Health.