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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 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Representative I, Patient Access-full time-Evernings-Silvis

Trinity Health

Silvis, IL • On-site

$15.75 - $23.63/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

569th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Evening Shift
Description:
1500-2330 every other holiday Some Holidays
Purpose
Provides patient focused customer service. Performs outpatient & / or inpatient registration & insurance verification functions; collects patient financial liability payments & ensures that patients meet financial requirements including Medicare medical necessity, payer pre-certifications & referrals. Provides general information to hospital users, patients, families & physician offices.
Schedule:
  • Full-time 32 hours per week-evening shift
  • 1500-2330 every other holiday Some Holidays

Pay:
$15.75-$23.63
Essential Functions
Our Trinity Health Culture: Knows, understands, incorporates & demonstrates our Trinity Health Mission, Values, Vision, Actions & Promise in behaviors, practices & decisions.
Work Focus:
Researches, collects & analyzes information. Identifies opportunities, develops solutions, & leads through resolution.
Collaborates on performance improvement activities as indicated by outcomes in program efficiency & patient experience.
Responsible for distribution of analytical reports.
Process Focus: Utilizes multiple system applications to perform analysis, create reports & develop educational materials. Incorporates basic knowledge of Trinity Health policies, practices & processes to ensure quality, confidentiality & safety are prioritized.
Demonstrates knowledge of departmental processes & procedures & ability to readily acquire new knowledge.
Data Management & Analysis:
Research & compiles information to support ad-hoc operational projects & initiatives.
Synthesizes & analyzes data & provides detailed summaries including graphical data presentations illustrating trends & recommending practical options or solutions while considering the impact on business strategy & supporting leadership decision making.
Leverages program & operational data & measurements to define & demonstrate progress, ROI & impacts.
Maintains a Working Knowledge of applicable federal, state & local laws / regulations, Trinity Health Integrity & Compliance Program & Code of Conduct, as well as other policies, procedures & guidelines in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical & professional behavior & safe work practices.
PAR I
Entry level position. Minimum one (1) year customer service experience. Patient Access experience preferred.
Patient Access Account Specialist
Additional minimum qualification of two plus (2+) years hospital registration or insurance verification experience.
Uses specialized knowledge to support key areas of the organization related to an area of expertise. Uses data, research analysis, critical thinking & problem-solving skills to support colleagues & leadership in achieving organization's strategic objectives. Serves as a peer influencer & may direct a project or project team by applying industry experience & specialized knowledge. Responsible for analyzing, processing & editing for correctness based on payer guidelines. Resolves items & ensures claims are billed accurately. Processes payments timely.
Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US