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Contract Medical Coder Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RN - MedSurg

Asbury, IA · On-site

$1.8K - $2.5K/wk

Healthcare Position - Night Shift This is a 13-week contract position. Shift: 06:00 PM - 06:30 AM ... Completion of required health screenings (COVID-19, MMR, Hepatitis B, etc.) Trinity Code of Conduct ...

... Contract (Days) : 91, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... Client Details City Des Moines State IA Zip Code 50314 Job Board Disclaimer The information ...

... Contract (Days) : 91, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... SW City Mason City State IA Zip Code 50401 Job Board Disclaimer The information provided on this ...

... Contract (Days) : 90, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... Client Details City Des Moines State IA Zip Code 50314 Job Board Disclaimer The information ...

... Contract (Days) : 182, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... Client Details City Des Moines State IA Zip Code 50314 Job Board Disclaimer The information ...

... Contract (Days) : 91, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... Client Details City Ottumwa State IA Zip Code 52501 Job Board Disclaimer The information provided ...

... Contract (Days) : 91, Estimated Gross Pay: 0.00 Convergence Medical Staffing is known for ... Client Details Address 1227 E Rusholme St City Davenport State IA Zip Code 52803 Job Board ...

These positions are 13-week contracts with the ability to extend. Benefits for a MED-SURG: * Weekly ... Client Details Address 2000 South Main St City Fairfield State IA Zip Code 52556 Job Board ...

RN - MedSurg

Pella, IA · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Current American Heart Association (AHA) Heart Code BLS required; certification to be obtained ... Contract & local rates may vary based on location and applicant residency. Ask your ARMStaffing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Medical Coder information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$21

$32

How much do contract medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract medical coder in Iowa is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you be a freelance medical coder?

Yes, contract medical coders can work as freelancers, providing coding services independently to healthcare providers or organizations. Freelance medical coders typically need certification, strong knowledge of coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and reliable access to coding tools and software. They often set their own schedules and rates, but must ensure compliance with industry standards and client requirements.

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

AspectContract Medical CoderMedical Coder
CertificationsTypically requires CPC or CCS certificationsUsually requires CPC or CCS certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance or temporary assignments, remote or onsiteFull-time, part-time, or freelance, often onsite or remote
Employer & IndustryHired by healthcare facilities or as independent contractorsEmployed directly by healthcare organizations or as freelancers

The main difference between a Contract Medical Coder and a Medical Coder lies in employment status. Contract Medical Coders typically work on temporary or freelance basis, often remotely, while Medical Coders may be employed full-time or part-time by healthcare providers. Both roles require similar certifications and skills, but their work arrangements and job stability differ.

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

To thrive as a Contract Medical Coder, you need a deep understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, coding systems (ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS), and typically a certification such as CPC, CCS, or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems and medical coding software is essential for efficient and accurate work. Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure coding accuracy and compliance, which are critical for proper billing, reimbursement, and legal standards in healthcare organizations.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For contract medical coders, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher pay compared to Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often associated with hospital coding and more complex cases. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and employer, with CCS-certified coders typically earning a premium due to the specialized skills required. Both certifications are valuable, but CCS tends to offer higher compensation in the medical coding field.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Medical Coders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Contract Medical Coders often face challenges such as adapting to different healthcare providers' coding systems, staying updated with frequent regulatory changes, and managing productivity expectations while working remotely. To manage these effectively, it's important to maintain strong communication with client teams, participate in ongoing training, and utilize reliable coding references. Time management and self-discipline are also essential, as contract roles often require meeting strict deadlines without direct supervision.

Will AI eventually replace medical coders?

Contract medical coders interpret clinical documentation and assign codes for billing and record-keeping. While AI tools can assist with coding accuracy and efficiency, human oversight remains essential to handle complex cases, ensure compliance, and review AI-generated codes. Therefore, AI is expected to augment rather than fully replace medical coders in the foreseeable future.

Which medical coder gets paid the most?

Senior and specialized medical coders, such as those with certifications like Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), tend to earn the highest salaries. Coders with expertise in outpatient, inpatient, or surgical coding, as well as those working in high-demand healthcare settings, generally receive higher pay. Experience, certifications, and geographic location also influence earning potential.

What are Contract Medical Coders?

Contract Medical Coders are professionals who work on a temporary or project basis to assign standardized codes to medical diagnoses and procedures found in patient records. They help healthcare providers ensure accurate billing, compliance, and reimbursement by translating clinical documentation into universally recognized codes. Unlike full-time employees, contract coders typically work for a set period or for specific assignments, either remotely or on-site, and may serve multiple clients. This flexibility is beneficial for healthcare organizations needing additional support during busy periods or special projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Iowa are:
Nursing - Medsurg/Telemetry

Nursing - Medsurg/Telemetry

Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

$2.1K/wk

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 hours ago


Carilion Clinic rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 213 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

447th of 884 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Details
Client Name
IA - MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center
Job Type
Travel
Offering
Nursing
Profession
Nursing
Specialty
Medsurg/Telemetry
Job ID
37169937
Job Title
Nursing - Medsurg/Telemetry
Weekly Pay
$2109.0
Shift Details
Shift
12 Hour Nights
Scheduled Hours
36
Job Order Details
Start Date
07/11/2026
End Date
10/10/2026
Duration
13 Week(s)
Job Description
Are you ready to take your Travel career to the next level? See places you have not seen before? Ventura's MedStaff tenured Recruiters are here to help you find your ideal contract; with over 50 years of combined experience. Markets have changed, but Ventura MedStaff has maintained a leader in the forefront of Therapy, Allied and Nursing opportunities. Our recruiters are here to help answer your questions and provide you with the most up to date information. Contracts run 8-13 weeks, with 36-40-hour guarantees, flexible start dates, and a mix of schedules. Contact one of our dedicated Recruiters to discuss more details.
Ventura MedStaff benefits represent the care and compassion we provide for our clients.
• Health, dental, vision, life, disability benefits and 401k
• Tax free stipends when applicable
• Gym discounts
• Weekly pay
• $750.00 referral bonus
Please apply or contract us at: www.venturamedstaff.com or 402-509-5532
Client Details
Address
1755 59th Place
City
West Des Moines
State
IA
Zip Code
50266

What Carilion Clinic employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Carilion Clinic logo

About Carilion Clinic

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

This is Carilion Clinic ... An organization where innovation happens, collaboration is expected and ideas are valued. A not-for-profit, mission-driven health system built on progress and partnerships. A courageous team that is always learning, never discouraged and forever curious. Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., you will find a robust system of award winning hospitals, Level 1 and 3 trauma centers, Level 3 NICU, Institute of Orthopedics and Neurosciences, multi-specialty physician practices, and The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and Research Institute. Carilion is where you can make your own path, make new discoveries and, most importantly, make a difference. Here, in a place where the air is clean, people are kind and life is good. Make your tomorrow with us.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Roanoke, VA, US

Year founded

1899