Coding Specialist

HIMS CODING SPECIALIST

Health Information Management Systems (HIMS) - Grand River Health | Rifle, CO

At Grand River, we are more than a hospital – we are neighbors taking care of neighbors proudly serving residents of Western Colorado and beyond. Our supportive culture is built on respect, friendliness, and a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.

The HIM Coding Specialist is responsible for accurate and timely coding of patient records using ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding systems to support billing, compliance, and data reporting. This role supports the efficiency and integrity of the Health Information Management (HIM) department by ensuring coding accuracy, regulatory compliance, and proper documentation.

The level (I, II, or III) is based on experience, complexity of cases coded, credentials held, and demonstrated performance. Higher-level specialists code more complex cases, support audits, analyze trends, and may provide guidance to others.

• Assign ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS codes for inpatient and outpatient encounters in accordance with official coding guidelines.
• Review medical records in the EHR to ensure documentation supports assigned codes.
• Abstract required data for billing, quality, and statistical reporting.
• Maintain productivity and accuracy standards while managing a steady workload.
• Protect patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and organizational policies.
• Communicate with providers and internal departments to clarify documentation or resolve discrepancies.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support HIM department operations.

• Handle more complex coding, including surgical and multi-condition cases.
• Support audits and help ensure coding accuracy and compliance.
• Spot documentation issues and work with teams to resolve them.
• Review coding trends to help improve processes and accuracy.

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• AHIMA credentials (RHIT, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P) or AAPC credentials (CPC, CPC-H) required or eligible for credential testing.
• Commitment to ongoing education in healthcare coding.

• Specialist I: Entry-level to foundational coding experience; routine diagnoses and procedures.
• Specialist II: Demonstrated experience coding more complex cases; supports audits and compliance activities.
• Specialist III: Typically 4–7 years of hospital acute care or multi-specialty clinic coding experience; acts as a subject matter expert for complex cases and compliance.
• Equivalent skills and demonstrated performance may be considered in lieu of years of experience.
• Experience with coding software required; 3M encoder experience preferred.

Our total rewards package includes

• Pay Range: $18.50 – $26.80 /hour (based on experience)
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, PTO from day one, extended illness time, retirement plan with match, and more.
• Perks: Payroll deductions for hot springs, gyms, ski passes, pet insurance, access to outdoor recreation, and more.

Compensation may vary outside this range depending on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies and experience.

Position is open until filled unless posted otherwise.

As a special taxing district, we are accountable to our community, allowing us to prioritize exceptional patient-centered care over financial bottom lines. Our main hospital campus is located in picturesque Rifle, Colorado with twenty-five beds providing a wide range of services, along with a long-term care center and a satellite campus. While the secret is out that this is a great place to live, the atmosphere of caring and friendly community has been preserved amidst a steady growth of population.

To improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve.

To be our communities’ first choice in quality healthcare.