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Contract Medical Coder Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Coder - Lead

Rochester, NY · On-site +1

$23.10 - $33.60/hr

... contracts. Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants ... medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age ...

... coding careers. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching systematic word ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Provides clinical expertise on ARD cases, Quality of Care cases, clinical editing, coding reviews and inquiries. * Makes accurate and consistent interpretation of integral medical policy, contract ...

Medical Courier

West Henrietta, NY

$15 - $19.25/hr

Medical Courier - Contract Opportunity Company Background Life Couriers is a company with over 40 ... code 14586 Own a reliable and registered car, SUV, or minivan that would be used for this contract ...

Provides clinical expertise on ARD cases, Quality of Care cases, clinical editing, coding reviews and inquiries. * Makes accurate and consistent interpretation of integral medical policy, contract ...

Provides clinical expertise on ARD cases, Quality of Care cases, clinical editing, coding reviews and inquiries. * Makes accurate and consistent interpretation of integral medical policy, contract ...

CPC Tutor

Rochester, NY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of CPC examination content covering medical coding using CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

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Contract Medical Coder information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$15

$22

$33

How much do contract medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract medical coder in Rochester, NY is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $23.70 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Medical Coder jobs in Rochester, NY? For Contract Medical Coder jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Contract Medical Coder jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Contract Medical Coder job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Medical Coder job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 62% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 37% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,016 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Coder - Lead

Coder - Lead

Rochester Regional Health

Rochester, NY • On-site, Remote

$23.10 - $33.60/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Rochester Regional Health rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 216 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Title: Lead Coder
Location: Remote
Hours Per Week: 40 hours/week
Schedule: Day shift
SUMMARY:
The Lead Coder, under the direction of the HIM Coding Manager, provides leadership and subject matter expertise to the coding team across inpatient and/or outpatient care settings. This role ensures daily operational functions are met, supports coding quality and compliance, and provides continuity during the training and onboarding of staff. The Lead Coder serves as a super user and resource for both internal and external stakeholders, assisting with complex coding questions, workflow improvements, and regulatory compliance. This position balances hands-on coding responsibilities with mentoring, auditing, and operational oversight to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance in coding practices.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Adheres to the Standards of Ethical Coding as set forth by AHIMA and/or AAPC and remains current with official coding guidelines, regulatory updates, and payer requirements
  • Works collaboratively with HIM management to support coding audit processes that promote quality, accuracy, and compliance
  • Monitors daily activity of coding work queues to support productivity benchmarks and turnaround times; communicates trends, barriers, or risks to HIM management
  • Provides technical guidance, recommendations, and feedback regarding workflow efficiencies, process improvements, and denial prevention opportunities
  • Serves as a mentor and resource to coding staff; assists with onboarding, training, and cross-training to support departmental coverage needs
  • Collaborates with Patient Financial Services, Revenue Integrity, Compliance, CDI, and other stakeholders to identify and resolve coding-related issues impacting reimbursement or compliance
  • Demonstrates advanced technical expertise in ICD-10-CM, CPT/HCPCS, and PCS coding, as well as applicable reimbursement methodologies (e.g., DRG, APC/E-APG)
  • Formulates compliant coding queries when provider documentation is incomplete, ambiguous, or unclear
  • Assists with review and correction of claim edits, error reports, and denials; identifies error patterns and partners with management on corrective actions
  • Provides education and guidance to providers and clinical teams related to documentation, coding, and reimbursement best practices
  • Maintains regular hands-on coding responsibilities and supports complex or high-risk case review as assigned
  • Escalates operational, compliance, or performance-related concerns to the Coding Supervisor and/or HIM Coding Manager
  • Performs other duties as assigned by HIM leadership

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum of 3 years of professional coding experience in inpatient and/or outpatient settings.
  • RHIA, RHIT, CCS, or CPC credential.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Associate's degree.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of State, Federal, and payer-specific regulations pertaining to documentation, coding, and billing.
  • Advanced knowledge of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and PCS coding guidelines.
  • Strong understanding of reimbursement methodologies (DRG, APC/E-APG, etc.) and revenue cycle workflows.
  • Proficiency in EHR and coding systems (e.g., Care Connect, UDS, Clintegrity).
  • Demonstrated ability to mentor, train, and support staff in coding best practices.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

EDUCATION:
LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
S - Sedentary Work - Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met.
For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.
Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee's physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.
PAY RANGE:
$23.10 - $33.60
CITY:
Rochester
POSTAL CODE:
14617
The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.
Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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