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Entry Level Inpatient Coding Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Entry Level Inpatient Coding information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$16

$23

$34

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inpatient coding in Philadelphia, PA is $23.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Philadelphia, PA? The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Entry Level Inpatient Coding jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inpatient Coding job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,745 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Pharmacist - Infectious Diseases/Central operations [Rotating shifts]

Pharmacist - Infectious Diseases/Central operations [Rotating shifts]

Redeemer Health

Meadowbrook, PA • On-site

$57.50 - $69.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Redeemer Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

OVERVIEW
All individuals, within the scope of their position are responsible to perform their job in light of the Mission & Values of the Health System. Regardless of position, every job contributes to the challenge of providing health care. There is an ongoing responsibility for ensuring that the values of Respect, Compassion, Justice, Hospitality, Holistic Approach, Stewardship and Collaboration are present in our interactions with one another and in the services, we provide.
SUMMARY OF JOB
  • Perform advanced clinical pharmacy and antimicrobial stewardship activities by applying expertise in infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and evidence-based antimicrobial therapy to optimize patient outcomes.
  • Review antimicrobial utilization, clinical practices, and stewardship initiatives to ensure compliance with regulatory, accreditation, and organizational standards.
  • Participate in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of antimicrobial stewardship policies, guidelines, and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Conduct education, training, and mentorship for pharmacists, pharmacy residents, interns, and APPE students to promote professional growth, accountability, and excellence in patient care.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to provide evidence-based recommendations, improve antimicrobial prescribing practices, and support patient safety initiatives.
  • Analyze antimicrobial use, resistance trends, and clinical outcomes to identify opportunities for process improvement and advance stewardship program goals.

  • Conduct comprehensive and targeted medication reviews daily to assess appropriateness, optimize therapy, and improve patient outcomes. Perform medication reconciliation at admission, transfer, and discharge to ensure accuracy, prevent discrepancies, and reduce adverse drug events.
  • Participate in departmental needs including staffing support (order entry, IV room), special projects (DUE), and initiatives aligned with organizational competencies and patient population needs.
  • Perform central pharmacy staffing functions including order verification, dispensing, and distribution activities, with evening coverage to support safe and efficient inpatient operations.
  • Serve as the point person for code trays and anesthesia/OR inventory management (including but not limited to pyxis optimization) by conducting daily drug distribution to critical areas, conducting prospective narcotic audits, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory and quality standards.
  • Review, investigate, and document narcotic discrepancies daily; prepare weekly reports for director of pharmacy to ensure accurate and timely resolution.
  • Oversee the disposition process for all expired or damaged pharmaceuticals, ensuring proper documentation, regulatory compliance, and safe removal from inventory.

RECRUITMENT REQUIREMENTS
Prior experience in an acute care hospital or healthcare system preferred.
Ability to work rotating day & evening shifts, including weekends and holidays.
Completion of an ASHP-accredited residency desirable but not required.
LICENSE AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:
Graduate of an accredited school of pharmacy with an entry-level pharmacy degree (B.Sc. or Pharm.D.).
Pennsylvania pharmacist licensure in good standing (or eligibility for licensure).
One hour of annual stroke education.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Redeemer Health is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination in employment due to race, color, gender, religion, creed, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability veteran status or any other protected classification required by law.

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