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Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$21.75 - $29/hr

... codes for emergency, outpatient and/or inpatient encounters and ancillary encounters ambulatory/provider-based clinics. Utilizes knowledge and experience gained with a goal to serve as a coding ...

Surg/Op Coder

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

This position is for an Outpatient Coder with Emergency Dept and Ambulatory Surgery coding experience. The coder will code Surgery, Emergency department, and Ancillary records. Emergency Dept coding ...

Surg/Op Coder

Oklahoma City, OK

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

This position is for an Outpatient Coder with Emergency Dept and Ambulatory Surgery coding experience. The coder will code Surgery, Emergency department, and Ancillary records. Emergency Dept coding ...

Surg/Op Coder

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site +1

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

This position is for an Outpatient Coder with Emergency Dept and Ambulatory Surgery coding experience. The coder will code Surgery, Emergency department, and Ancillary records. Emergency Dept coding ...

Outpatient Coding Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$23.65 - $38.20/hr

Qualified candidates must have at least two years of recent facility outpatient coding experience with demonstrated expertise in Ambulatory Surgery, Outpatient Clinic, and/or Emergency Department ...

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Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder information

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$16

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$29

How much do entry level ambulatory surgery coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level ambulatory surgery coder in the United States is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level ambulatory surgery coders, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level ambulatory surgery coders often encounter challenges such as navigating complex operative reports, keeping up with frequent regulatory and coding guideline updates, and learning to use specialized coding software efficiently. To address these challenges, new coders benefit from on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and utilizing available coding resources such as reference manuals and online forums. Staying proactive in continuing education and seeking feedback can also help build confidence and accuracy in this fast-paced environment.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For an entry-level ambulatory surgery coder, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries than Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is often associated with hospital coding and more complex cases. However, salary can vary based on experience, location, and employer, with CCS holders typically earning a premium due to advanced training and certification requirements.

Is AI replacing medical coders?

AI is increasingly used to assist medical coders, including entry-level ambulatory surgery coders, by automating routine coding tasks and improving accuracy. However, human oversight remains essential to handle complex cases, interpret documentation, and ensure compliance, so AI is a tool that complements rather than replaces medical coders.

Can you get a job as a medical coder with no experience?

Entry level ambulatory surgery coders can often find positions with little or no prior experience if they complete relevant training and obtain certifications such as CPC or CCS. Employers may provide on-the-job training, but having basic knowledge of medical terminology, coding guidelines, and coding software improves job prospects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder vs Medical Biller?

AspectEntry Level Ambulatory Surgery CoderMedical Biller
CertificationsCPMA, CPC, or equivalentCPB, CPC, or equivalent
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, surgery centersMedical offices, billing companies, hospitals
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssigning procedure codes, ensuring accurate documentation for surgeriesSubmitting claims, follow-up on payments, patient billing

While both roles involve coding and billing, Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coders focus on assigning procedure codes for outpatient surgeries, whereas Medical Billers handle the entire billing process, including claims submission and payment follow-up. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in healthcare settings like hospitals and clinics.

What is an Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder?

An Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder is a healthcare professional responsible for reviewing and assigning standardized medical codes to procedures and diagnoses performed in ambulatory (outpatient) surgical centers. This role helps ensure accurate billing and compliance with healthcare regulations by translating clinical documentation into codes used for insurance claims and statistical analysis. Entry-level coders typically work under supervision, learning coding guidelines, medical terminology, and the use of coding software. They play a crucial part in the revenue cycle of outpatient surgical facilities by helping to prevent errors and ensure timely reimbursement.

How hard is it to get hired as a medical coder?

Getting hired as an entry-level ambulatory surgery coder typically requires a basic understanding of medical coding principles, familiarity with coding systems like CPT and ICD-10, and often a certification such as CPC. While competition can vary, having relevant training and certifications can improve job prospects and ease the hiring process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and CPT/ICD-10 coding guidelines, often supported by a coding certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, coding software, and billing platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accuracy and collaboration. These skills ensure precise coding, timely reimbursement, and compliance with healthcare regulations, which are vital for the efficient operation of ambulatory surgery centers.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Ambulatory Surgery Coder job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ambulatory Surgery Coder jobs? The most popular types of Ambulatory Surgery Coder jobs are:
Coder/Abstractor -Inpatient & Ambulatory

Coder/Abstractor -Inpatient & Ambulatory

Waterbury Hospital

Waterbury, CT • On-site

$22.25 - $26.75/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 17 days ago


Waterbury Hospital rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

210th of 1,013 rated hospitals


Job description

Assign ICD-10-CM codes, CPT and HCPC codes for inpatient, ED, Ambulatory Surgery, and other outpatient records. Assign appropriate DRG or APC based on review of the admission diagnoses, principal diagnoses and other operations and procedures. Assign ICD-10-CM, CPT4 and HCPC codes as appropriate based on documentation from the report, order or medical record following coding rules and guidelines. Ensure that outpatient ICD-10 codes are entered onto the computer within the timeframe allotted to assure accurate billing.
Requirements: High School diploma required. Minimum one year ICD-10-CM/CPT4 coding experience in hospital or related setting. Knowledge of CRT/PC and other technology as well as knowledge of APC categories required. Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology.
replacing req 18354

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