Abstractor​/Coder

Position: Abstractor/Coder I

Medical Coder – Biological Sciences Division

Under moderate supervision, the Abstractor/Coder is responsible for accurate and timely review and coding of inpatient and outpatient physician services, including procedures and surgeries. The role ensures compliance with all external regulations affecting the coding process and verifies that physician documentation supports billing. The candidate will perform charge capture by reviewing provider documentation to abstract and/or confirm ICD-10 and CPT codes.

Responsibilities

• Obtain appropriate reimbursement levels for professional services by coding physician services including procedures, evaluation and management, diagnoses, and modifiers.
• Analyze denial and rejection reports and appeal where appropriate.
• Submit charges in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with the team to provide guidance to faculty and staff on charge capture and documentation processes.
• Educate physicians and support staff on coding issues, including fraud prevention.
• Assign appropriate CPT, HCPCS, and ICD-10 codes for professional services per workflow.
• Review and resolve edits resulting from services in a timely manner.
• Query physicians to clarify conflicting, imprecise, incomplete, ambiguous, or inconsistent documentation when appropriate.
• Ensure coding compliance with all relevant internal and external regulations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• High-level proficiency in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, ICD-10, HCPCS, and CPT coding classification systems, demonstrated by certification through a nationally accredited body (e.g., AAPC or AHIMA).
• Exceptional attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy in coding and billing processes.
• Understanding of CMS guidelines and familiarity with third‑party payer rules and reimbursement policies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe.
• Effective communication skills in English, both oral and written.
• Ability to manage interpersonal relationships and interact with clarity, tact, and courtesy with staff, faculty, and patients.
• Capability to set priorities, resolve or refer problems, and work effectively with supervision and as part of a team.

Education, Experience, and Certifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years of coding experience required; other relevant experience with exceptional coding knowledge may be considered in lieu of direct coding experience.
• Preferred:
  Two or more years coding in surgical specialties, prior experience with Epic Professional Billing, and prior experience coding in an academic medical center.
• Required:
  
  One of the following licenses – RHIA, RHIT, CCS‑P, CPC, or CCS.

Technical Knowledge or Skills

• Proficiency in ICD-10‑CM, CPT, and HCPCS Level II coding systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to use encoders and other online tools to research, validate, and assign accurate codes.

Working Conditions and

Physical Requirements

• Standard office environment using standard office equipment.
• Sit for 4 hours or more per day.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote options for coders in good standing.

Pay Range

$25.95 – $37.98 per hour (hourly).

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Benefit Eligibility

Yes – Employees may qualify for a wide range of benefit programs, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

Salary and Schedule

40 scheduled weekly hours; full‑time, non‑exempt.

EEO Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773‑702‑5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

Posting Date

2025‑10‑28

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