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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$24

$34

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in Chicago, IL is $24.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Can you get a job as an entry level inpatient coder with no experience?

Entry level inpatient coding positions typically require some knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10, and often a certification such as CPC or CCS. While prior experience is not always mandatory, employers usually look for relevant training or certification, and on-the-job training is common for new coders entering inpatient settings.

How to become an entry level inpatient coder?

To become an entry-level inpatient coder, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a coding certification program such as the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC). Gaining knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT, and understanding hospital coding guidelines are essential, and some employers may prefer candidates with internship or on-the-job training experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,784 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Physical Therapist I

Chicago, IL • On-site

The University of Chicago Medicine

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about The University of Chicago Medicineexternal

$1.7K - $2.2K/wk

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description


Physical Therapist I Inpatient, Full-Time Days
Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine as a Physical Therapist I, 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

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