Inpatient Coder

JOB SUMMARY

The Coder is responsible for assigning diagnostic and procedural codes to patient charts using ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS or any other designated coding classification system in accordance with coding rules and regulations. The coder will abstract required clinical information.

This position requires a thorough knowledge of medical terminology, disease processes, pharmacology, Medicare's Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS), Official Coding Guidelines for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS codes, and documentation requirements for correct and accurate coding. It is the coder's responsibility to submit physician queries when clarification of documentation is needed. Coders must also be able to collaborate with others in the organization including the CDI team, Medical Staff, and other clinicians to ensure the record accurately documents the services provided. Coder will be asked to attend Performance improvement meetings and physician documentation education meetings when needed.

A Level II coder will primarily code high dollar inpatient accounts and will also be asked to preliminary code accounts for CDI staff to help catch PSIs and HACs. Level II coders must be able to offer guidance and assistance to level I coders, and must have the skills to handle complex inpatient cases.

Coder must meet production standards as specified in inpatient coding procedures after orientation period. Remote coding opportunity when production standards are met.

JOB DETAILS AND REQUIREMENTS

Type: PRN or As Needed

Typical hours for this position: Daytime training schedule (2 weeks maximum), with flexible hours available once training is complete

Remote work

Will ONLY consider candidates from the following states: MO, IL, AR

Education:

High School Diploma Required

Certification & Licensures:

-At least one certification is required. Accepted certifications include:

• CIC (Certified Inpatient Coder) certification through AAPC
• CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) certification through AHIMA
• RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician) certification through AHIMA will be considered with at least 5 years of Hospital coding experience

The hiring manager may have a preference for a specific certifying organization or a specific coding certification to be discussed at time of interview.

Experience:

-Minimum of 5 years inpatient or outpatient coding experience in facility setting

-Demonstrated ability to maintain high quality standards as specified or greater Must maintain specified productions standards

-Proficient in utilizing technology (computer, VPN, MS Office, coding software) to perform responsibilities

-Proficient in accessing and understanding local and national coverage determinations (LCDs/NCDs)

-Strong verbal and written communication skills

-Must have ICD-10 coding experience and have completed an ICD-10 course

-Strong time management skills to balance coding responsibilities

-Experience with highly complex cases, orthopedic, and cardiology preferred

-Experience in EPIC EMR is required

-Experience in OPTUM computer assisted coding software is preferred

-Reliable Internet provider required (if working remotely)

Saint Francis Healthcare System is committed to a compensation philosophy that aligns to the fiftieth percentile of the marketplace, while also crediting applicable and/or relevant work experience when computing compensation offers for selected candidates. Internal equity is factored into all offers presented to candidates.

Minimum hourly rate: $19.17/hour

A relevant and up to date general benefits description may be found on our website:

https://www.sfmc.net/careers/benefits/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Why Work at Saint Francis?

Saint Francis Healthcare System began in 1875 when three courageous Franciscan Sisters answered a call to care for those in need. What started as a 12‑bed hospital has grown into the region’s leading healthcare system—recognized nationally for exceptional quality, safety, and patient experience.

Today, Saint Francis serves more than 715,000 people across five states. With a 306‑bed Medical Center, nearly 3,000 team members, and over 300 providers, Saint Francis is not only the largest healthcare system between St. Louis and Memphis—it’s a powerful economic anchor for the communities it serves.

You’ll find more than 50 specialties, the region’s only Level III Emergency and Trauma Center, and southeast Missouri’s first Level III NICU. The system’s employed physician group, Saint Francis Medical Partners, supports more than 40 outreach clinics and 70% of the area’s primary care providers.

A Mission That Matters

At Saint Francis, you’re not just doing a job - you’re part of a Catholic healing ministry rooted in compassion, dignity, and service. Every action is inspired by a commitment to honor human life and care for every person who walks through the doors.

Mission

To provide a ministry of healing, wellness, quality, and love inspired by our faith in Jesus Christ.

Vision

To be a leading Catholic healthcare system that celebrates and protects the gift of life by providing exceptional patient outcomes in quality, safety, access and value.

Values You Can Feel Every Day

• Integrity: Doing what’s right, even when no one is watching
• Stewardship: Managing resources wisely for the future
• Faith: Believing in a purpose greater than ourselves
• Hope: Lifting up those who feel discouraged
• Joy: Serving others with a grateful, happy heart
• Compassion: Seeing others through Christ's eyes
• Excellence: Always striving to be the best
• Dignity: Respecting human life from beginning to end

If You’re Looking to Make a True Impact…

Saint Francis offers a workplace where your work has purpose, your team feels like family, and your contributions support a mission that has been changing lives for more than 150 years.

Total Rewards

Our most important asset is our colleagues. That's why Saint Francis Healthcare System offers a comprehensive benefits program to meet all your needs. Colleagues working at least 24 hours per week will have access to our Total Rewards package as outlined below.

• Comprehensive and affordable health coverage including medical, prescription, dental and vision - available on the first of the month after hire date
• Saint Francis Medical Services Discount
• Earned Time Off (ETO) based on relevant years of work history. ETO combines vacation, sick, holidays, and personal days into one balance to allow for flexibility
• Retirement benefits including SFHS immediate matching
• Education Assistance benefits up to $5,000 per calendar year for one year of service after graduation
• Other benefits including: Benefit Support through Health Advocate, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Earned Wage Access

To learn more about our Total Rewards package and eligibility, visit www.sfmc.net/careers/benefits/.

Saint Francis Healthcare System provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Saint Francis Healthcare System complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) should you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a currently open position with Saint Francis Healthcare System, please call 573-331-5152 or email us at careers@sfmc.net.