Coder Lead, Professional

About the Role

The coding area is a critical component of SSM Health's revenue cycle, and as the Coder Lead, you'll be responsible for coordinating and prioritizing coding activities. Your attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of coding standards will be essential in this role.

You'll be part of a dynamic team that values innovation, teamwork, and continuous learning. SSM Health is committed to providing high-quality patient care, and as a Coder Lead, you'll contribute to this mission by ensuring accurate and efficient coding processes.

What You Will Do

• Lead and coordinate shift operations, work assignments, and daily priorities for the coding area
• Serve as a leader, modeling, mentoring, and training assigned staff
• Manage assigned charge review and coding-related claim work queues to ensure timely and accurate charge capture
• Accurately decipher charge error reasons and plan follow-up steps
• Review medical record documentation in the electronic health record and/or on paper
• Identify, enter, and post CPT-4 and ICD-10 codes to the electronic health record
• Ensure all coded services meet appropriate Medicare, National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI), or payer-specific guidelines
• Contact providers and/or support staff when clarification is needed to appropriately bill for services
• Assist coding staff, physician, and other healthcare practitioners with questions regarding coding and documentation guidelines
• Provide ongoing feedback based on observations from coding physician/provider documentation
• Correct claim edit errors in the work queues, assure charges provide optimal reimbursement with appropriate documentation
• Provide feedback and guidance to coders and clinicians on recurring errors
• Suggest rules to proactively work these edits prior to claim edit
• Partner with the follow-up department to analyze payer updates affecting coding denials and apply knowledge to assist in correction, submission, and payment of claims
• Track denials and report trends to leadership

What We Are Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent, or 10 years of work experience
• Three years of experience in a coding role
• Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential
• Strong knowledge of CPT-4, ICD-10, and Medicare reimbursement guidelines
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively
• Proficiency in electronic health records (EHRs) and coding software
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills

Nice to Have

• Experience with encoder software and coding audits
• Knowledge of electronic health record (EHR) systems and clinical documentation improvement (CDI) principles
• Familiarity with ICD-10-PCS and HCPCS coding systems

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work remotely and maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Professional development and growth opportunities
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment
• Access to cutting-edge technology and coding tools
• Recognition and reward programs for outstanding performance
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans

• Develop a strong understanding of CPT-4, ICD-10, and Medicare reimbursement guidelines to stand out in the application process.
• Create a portfolio that showcases your coding experience, highlighting your attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Familiarize yourself with encoder software and coding audits to demonstrate your versatility and adaptability.
• During the interview, be prepared to discuss your experience with electronic health records (EHRs) and coding software.
• Highlight your leadership and mentoring skills, as the Coder Lead role requires guiding and supporting a team of coders.
• Research SSM Health's mission and values to demonstrate your passion for the healthcare industry and commitment to providing high-quality patient care.