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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Patient Access Representative

Mount Carmel, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Performs outpatient & / or inpatient registration & insurance verification functions; collects ... HFMA CRCR or NAHAM CHAA required within one (1) year of hire. * Entry level position. Minimum one ...

Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

Is there a shortage of inpatient medical coders?

Inpatient medical coding is experiencing a workforce shortage due to increasing healthcare documentation complexity and demand for accurate coding. Entry-level inpatient coders with certification and familiarity with coding software are in particular demand, leading to more job opportunities in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

How do I become a coder with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding positions typically require a basic understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. Gaining certification through programs such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) can improve job prospects, and completing online courses or training programs can help build necessary skills without prior experience.

What is entry level inpatient coding?

Entry level inpatient coding involves reviewing and assigning standardized medical codes to diagnoses and procedures documented in a patient’s hospital records. Coders use classification systems like ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS to ensure accurate billing and facilitate healthcare data analysis. As an entry-level position, it typically requires a foundational understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines, often supported by a coding certification. Coders play a vital role in helping hospitals receive appropriate reimbursement and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Inpatient Coding vs Medical Records Technician?

AspectEntry Level Inpatient CodingMedical Records Technician
CertificationsCPCT, CPC, CCS (preferred)RHIT, RHIA (preferred)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, healthcare facilitiesClinics, hospitals, healthcare offices
Job FocusAssigning inpatient diagnosis and procedure codesManaging and organizing patient records
Common Search IntentInpatient coding roles and certificationsMedical records management and coding

Entry Level Inpatient Coding primarily involves assigning codes to inpatient hospital stays, requiring coding certifications. Medical Records Technicians focus on organizing and maintaining patient records, often with similar certifications. While both roles work in healthcare settings, inpatient coding emphasizes coding accuracy for billing, whereas medical records technicians handle record management. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role aligned with their skills and certifications.

How do I become an inpatient coder?

To become an inpatient coder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a coding training program or certificate in medical coding. Certification through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is often required or preferred, and familiarity with coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT is essential.

How much do beginner coders make?

Entry-level inpatient coders typically earn between $35,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, certification, and employer. Starting salaries may increase with experience, additional certifications, and proficiency in coding software and medical terminology.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level inpatient coders, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level inpatient coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical documentation, learning various coding systems (like ICD-10-CM and PCS), and understanding hospital-specific billing requirements. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to actively seek mentorship from experienced coders, participate in ongoing training sessions, and regularly review coding guidelines and updates. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as coders frequently collaborate with healthcare providers to clarify documentation and ensure coding accuracy. With practice and support, new coders can quickly develop proficiency and confidence in their role.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Inpatient Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10-CM/PCS coding systems, typically supported by a certification such as CCA, CCS, or RHIT. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is important for accurate and efficient code assignment. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help coders ensure precise documentation and compliance. These skills are essential to support accurate billing, reimbursement, and regulatory adherence in healthcare organizations.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution.
Physical Therapist II, Inpatient - Days

Physical Therapist II, Inpatient - Days

The University of Chicago Medicine

Chicago, IL • On-site

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


University Of Chicago Medicine rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

302nd of 881 rated healthcare providers


Job description


Physical Therapist II Inpatient, Full-Time Days
1,500 Dollar Sign-On Bonus!
Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine as a Physical Therapist II, at our Hyde Park location.
In this role as Physical Therapist you will examine, evaluate, test and work to alleviate mechanical, physiological or developmental impairments, functional limitations, disabilities or other health and movement related conditions; classifying these disorders, determining a rehabilitation prognosis and plan of therapeutic intervention and assessing the ongoing effects of the interventions.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Evaluates patients utilizing advanced test and measurements; to determine the physical therapy problem/level of function and the expected discharge environment
  • Promotes and has knowledge of and utilizes appropriate patient care protocol relating to the physical, psychosocial and developmental needs of neonatal, pediatric, adult and geriatric patients
  • Establishes PT interventions based upon the examination and evaluation; patient/family, referring practitioner and therapist goals
  • Competently performs physical therapy services, utilizing the advanced techniques and procedures
  • Instructs patients/families in home programs
  • Coordinates patient care with other members of patient's health care team
  • Provides for continuity of patient care through written and verbal communication with team members and other treating disciplines, especially in preparation for planned absences

Required Qualifications:
  • Graduate of an accredited program with minimum Bachelor's Degree.
  • Licensed, or eligible, in the state of Illinois with Notification of eligibility for examination.
  • Active BLS certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's or Doctorate preferred.
  • Knowledge and skills necessary to provide care which is age specific/appropriate for the types of patients served.
  • Basic computer knowledge /skills to access patient data.
  • Appropriate interpersonal skills to enable positive interactions with patients/families, the multidisciplinary team and external contacts.
  • Declaration of intent to develop advanced, clinical knowledge and skills in a focused area of clinical practice.
  • Graduation from an approved physical therapy school with Masters or Bachelors entry level degree in P.T.

Position Details:
  • Job Type/FTE: Full Time (1.0 FTE)
  • Shift: Days - 8 hours
  • Job Location: Hyde Park (Chicago, IL)
  • Area: Physical Therapy
  • CBA Code: Non-Union
  • Unit/Department: Physical Therapy / IP - Hyde Park

About Us
We've been at the forefront of medicine since 1899. We provide superior healthcare with compassion, always mindful that each patient is a person, an individual. To accomplish this, we need employees with passion, talent and commitment... with patients and with each other. We're in this together: working to advance medical innovation, serve the health needs of the community, and move our collective knowledge forward. If you'd like to add enriching human life to your profile, UChicago Medicine is for you. Here at the forefront, we're doing work that really matters. Join us. Bring your passion.
UChicago Medicine is growing; discover how you can be a part of this pursuit of excellence at: UChicago Medicine Career Opportunities
UChicago Medicine is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, civil union status, parental status, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status and other legally protected characteristics.
As a condition of employment, all employees are required to complete a pre-employment physical, background check, drug screening, and comply with the flu vaccination requirements prior to hire. Medical and religious exemptions will be considered for flu vaccination consistent with applicable law.
Compensation & Benefits Overview
UChicago Medicine is committed to transparency in compensation and benefits. The pay range provided reflects the anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position.
The pay range is based on a full-time equivalent (1.0 FTE) and is reflective of current market data, reviewed on an annual basis. Compensation offered at the time of hire will vary based on candidate qualifications and experience and organizational considerations, such as internal equity. Pay ranges for employees subject to Collective Bargaining Agreements are negotiated by the medical center and their respective union.
Review the full complement of benefit options for eligible roles at Benefits - UChicago Medicine.

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