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Assistant Medical Coder Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Medical Scribe

Portland, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

... assist in the documentation of medical conversations, exams and treatment with patients. Scribes ... Codes, prescriptions, diagnostics, referrals and medical equipment. * Review patient charts ...

Coding Analyst

Portland, OR · On-site

$38 - $45/hr

... medical records. Key Responsibilities * Evaluate Appeals: Review contested provider and facility claims to ensure alignment with correct coding logic. * Maintain Policies: Assist in writing ...

Physician Assistant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$104K - $141K/yr

Duties include taking medical histories, performing examinations, and developing treatment plans ... Ability to follow HIPPA, all patient privacy and other health codes * Ability to recommend ...

Physician Assistant

Vancouver, WA

$105K - $143K/yr

Duties include taking medical histories, performing examinations, and developing treatment plan ... Ability to follow HIPPA, all patient privacy and other health codes * Ability to recommend ...

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Assistant Medical Coder information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do assistant medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant medical coder in Portland, OR is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What medical coder gets paid the most?

Senior medical coders with extensive experience, specialized certifications such as Certified Professional Coder-Hospital (CPC-H) or Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-based (CCS-P), and expertise in complex coding areas tend to earn the highest salaries. Those working in outpatient hospital settings, specialty clinics, or in leadership roles also typically receive higher pay. Advanced skills in coding software and compliance contribute to increased earning potential.

What are assistant medical coders?

Assistant medical coders are healthcare professionals who support the process of translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized codes used for billing and record-keeping. They typically work under the supervision of certified medical coders and help ensure accurate coding of patient records, which is essential for insurance claims and compliance with healthcare regulations. Their responsibilities may include reviewing medical documentation, entering data into coding systems, and assisting with audits. This role is often an entry-level position and can serve as a stepping stone to becoming a certified medical coder.

How can I get a medical coding job with no experience?

To get an assistant medical coder position with no experience, focus on obtaining relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS, and consider completing a coding training program or course. Internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions can also provide practical experience and help build your skills in medical terminology, coding guidelines, and coding software.

What is the difference between Assistant Medical Coder vs Medical Coder?

AspectAssistant Medical CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically requires coding certifications like CPC or CCSRequires similar or advanced coding certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in healthcare facilities, supporting coding teamsIn hospitals, clinics, or outpatient centers, performing coding tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesAssists with data entry, audits, and preliminary codingPerforms detailed coding, reviews records, ensures compliance

The main difference is that Assistant Medical Coders support and assist with coding tasks, often handling preliminary work, while Medical Coders perform detailed, primary coding responsibilities. Both roles require similar certifications and work in healthcare settings, but Medical Coders typically have more advanced responsibilities and experience.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For assistant medical coders, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries compared to Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often preferred for hospital coding roles and involves more complex coding tasks. Salary differences can also depend on experience, location, and employer, but CCS-certified coders tend to earn more on average.

Can a medical assistant work as a coder?

A medical assistant can develop basic coding skills, but typically they are not qualified to perform professional medical coding, which requires specialized training and certification such as CPC or CCS. Medical coding is a separate role that involves reviewing medical records and assigning appropriate codes for billing and documentation purposes.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Medical Coders when transitioning from training to real-world coding environments?

Assistant Medical Coders often find that applying theoretical knowledge to real-world medical records can be challenging, as documentation may be incomplete or use varied terminology. Adapting to different electronic health record (EHR) systems and keeping up with frequent updates to coding guidelines also require ongoing learning. Collaborating with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and ensuring accuracy under productivity standards are key aspects of the role. Support from experienced coders and ongoing education are valuable resources for overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Medical Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, coding systems (such as ICD-10 and CPT), and a high school diploma or relevant certification in medical coding. Familiarity with medical coding software, electronic health record (EHR) systems, and compliance standards like HIPAA is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are crucial soft skills for this role. Mastery of these skills ensures accurate coding, supports proper billing, and minimizes errors that could impact patient care and healthcare facility revenue.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Portland, OR are:
Medical Scribe

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

Medical scribes are unlicensed individuals who function in partnership with a medical provider to assist in the documentation of medical conversations, exams and treatment with patients. Scribes are expected to gain competency with the often highly specialized focus of their provider. Scribes provide direct support for specific medical providers, and are intended to match schedules with their assigned provider. Schedule may vary from day-to-day and week-to-week. Scribing may be done in- person or virtually depending on the needs of the provider. Scribes are not interchangeable without significant additional training.

This position requires someone with high-level written and verbal communication skills and the ability to stay calm, problem solve and stay organized under high pressure conditions and timelines.

Function/Duties of Position
  • Accurately and efficiently record the History of Present Illness (HPI) and Review of Systems (ROS) into the Electronic Health Record, as well as, update the Past Medical History (PMH), Social History, Medications, Allergies, specialty specific metrics, visit Summaries, discharge summaries, while the clinician interacts with the patient.

  • Accurately and efficiently record the details of the Physical Exam, Medical Decision Making, Assessment and Plan, and pend any computerized Orders as directed by the clinician, including ICD Codes, prescriptions, diagnostics, referrals and medical equipment. 
  • Review patient charts, including outside records for information pertinent to the visit and include such information in the note per established workflows.

  • Monitor the progress of labs, imaging, or other patient evaluation data, and record the results into the appropriate note so that the clinician can quickly access the necessary information and make sound treatment decisions

  • Document and pend orders necessary for procedures being performed by the clinician using appropriate billing codes and medical terminology as required by the billing department.

  • Update "Provider Preferences" and specialty specific training material regularly and as indicated.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent within one year of start-date.

Knowledge and Skills Required:

  • Extensive computer skills including MS Office and Windows required. 
  • Excellent customer service skills, and ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Must be detail-oriented and have good organizational skills. 
  • Must be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills, including both written and verbal. 
  • Must have strong grammar skills. 
  • Must have a demonstrable record of reliable attendance, punctuality, and proven successful performance at past and present employers. 
  • Must be able to work both with a team and independently.
  • Ability to problem solve.
  • Ability to stay calm under high-pressure conditions and timelines.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Coursework demonstrating focus on pursuing a career in healthcare at a graduate/doctorate level.
  • Prior experience in healthcare settings, particularly in the role of medical scribe.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology and higher-level science courses including anatomy and physiology.
  • Understanding of medical note content, and medical billing and coding.
  • Typing speed of 60 words per minute 
Additional Details

Medical Scribes can have a variable schedule depending on their assignments. Scribes must be able to travel

to necessary OHSU campuses (Marquam Hill, South Waterfront, etc.) 1-5 days a week. Scribes do not

provide any medical care but must be comfortable being in the same room while medical care and medical

procedures are provided.

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: OTHER

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887