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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

... Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes Standard Hours per Week 32 Full Time or ... inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. For student instruction: assist with entry-level ...

... Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes Standard Hours per Week 32 Full Time or ... inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. For student instruction: assist with entry-level ...

... Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? Yes Standard Hours per Week 32 Full Time or ... inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. For student instruction: assist with entry-level ...

Inventory Associate

Banner, IL

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

This an ideal entry level position to gain experience in supply chain and health care with ... Our inpatient medical oncology unit also incorporates a program that utilizes the electronic ...

Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See Illinois salary details

$15

$22

$32

How much do entry level inpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in Illinois is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $24.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do I become a coder with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, and gaining certification such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) can improve job prospects. Beginners should focus on learning medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and consider completing a coding training program or course to build foundational skills. Practical experience through internships or volunteer work can also help establish competence in the field.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For entry-level inpatient coding roles, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries than Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials, as CCS is more specialized in hospital coding. However, salaries also depend on experience, location, and employer, with CCS often commanding a premium due to its focus on inpatient and facility coding. Both certifications can increase earning potential and job opportunities in medical coding.

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 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 be lower for those without certification or limited experience, but with skills in coding systems like ICD-10 and familiarity with electronic health records, earnings can increase with experience.

Can I get a medical coding job with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding jobs often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a coding certification such as CPC or CCS. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of medical terminology, and familiarity with coding software are important for success in these roles.

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:
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

Posted 2 days ago


University Of Chicago Medicine rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

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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