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Entry Level Medical Coder Jobs in Beech Island, SC

Entry Level Medical Coder information

See Beech Island, SC salary details

$15

$21

$33

How much do entry level medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level medical coder in Beech Island, SC is $21.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level medical coder?

An entry level medical coder is a professional who reviews clinical documents and assigns standardized codes to medical diagnoses and procedures for billing and insurance purposes. They typically work in hospitals, clinics, or physician offices under the supervision of experienced coders. Entry level medical coders use classification systems such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS, ensuring accuracy and compliance with healthcare regulations. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in medical coding, often after completing a relevant certification or training program.

What does an entry level medical coder do?

An entry-level medical coder works in the billing department of hospitals, doctor's offices, and other healthcare facilities. Entry-level medical coders transfer healthcare services and claims into universal medical codes for insurance reimbursement purposes. To become an entry-level medical coder, you must have excellent attention to detail and a solid base knowledge of medical terminology, procedure and visit authorizations, and insurance billing procedures. While not required, some employers prefer entry-level medical coders to have an associate degree in medical coding or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential. When you first start in this entry-level position, your employer may have you shadow veteran medical coders to become proficient in the medical codes and be supervised when you first submit claims.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level medical coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, typically supported by a certification such as CPC or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) software and coding tools is essential for efficient and accurate data entry. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure coding precision and compliance. These skills are crucial for maintaining accurate billing, reducing claim denials, and supporting the financial health of healthcare providers.

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

Entry level medical coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical documentation, staying current with frequent updates to coding standards, and managing productivity expectations. To overcome these, it’s helpful to develop strong attention to detail, regularly review coding guidelines (such as ICD-10 and CPT), and seek feedback from experienced colleagues. Many organizations also provide mentorship or training programs to help new coders build confidence and accuracy in their work.

What is the difference between Entry Level Medical Coder vs Medical Biller?

AspectEntry Level Medical CoderMedical Biller
CertificationsCPMA, CPC, CCS (entry level)Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS), Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, physician officesBilling companies, healthcare providers, insurance companies
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssigning codes to diagnoses and proceduresSubmitting claims, follow-up on payments
OverlapHigh in coding and billing processes

While both roles are essential in healthcare revenue cycle management, an Entry Level Medical Coder focuses on translating medical documentation into standardized codes, whereas a Medical Biller handles the financial aspect by submitting claims and managing payments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within healthcare administration.

Can I do entry level medical coding with no experience?

Entry level medical coding positions typically require some knowledge of medical terminology and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, but many employers accept candidates with no prior experience if they complete relevant training or certification programs such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC). Training programs and certifications help prepare newcomers for entry level roles, which often involve supervised work and on-the-job learning.

How do I start entry level medical coding for beginners?

To start as an entry-level medical coder, obtain a relevant certification such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the Certified Coding Associate (CCA) from AHIMA. Gain knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and consider completing a training program or course to build foundational skills before applying for entry-level positions.

Is it hard to find an entry-level medical coder job?

Finding an entry-level medical coder job can be competitive, but opportunities are available for those with relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS and basic knowledge of medical coding systems. Entry-level positions often require strong attention to detail and familiarity with coding software, and job availability may vary by location and industry demand.

What cities near Beech Island, SC are hiring for Entry Level Medical Coder jobs?

Cities near Beech Island, SC with the most Entry Level Medical Coder job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Medical Coder job openings in Beech Island, SC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,664 per year, or $22 per hour.

Spinal Cord - Physician Assistant

Augusta, GA

SD Department of Veterans Affairs
Public AdministrationΒ β€’Β 201 - 500 employees

$102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide patient care related to spinal cord conditions and coordinate treatment plans.

  • Perform patient history and physical examinations to assess patient needs.

  • Formulate treatment plans and deliver appropriate care based on patient assessments.


Job description

This is an OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT and will remain open until September 30, 2026. The initial cut-off date for referral of eligible applications and subsequent cut-off dates are on the 1st of each month. Eligible applications received after that date will be referred at regular intervals or as additional vacancies occur on an as-needed basis until positions are filled
Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Physician Assistant Basic Requirements
  • Citizenship. Citizen of the United States [in accordance with section 7402(c) to title 38, United States Code (U.S.C.). Non-citizens may be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified candidates in accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7407(a).
  • Education. Graduate of a training program which is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education of Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) or one of its predecessor organizations. Additionally, candidates must meet one of the following:
    1. Master's degree in any discipline; OR
    2. Bachelor's degree in any discipline with one year of experience as a Physician Assistant.
  • Certification. Must have successfully passed the PA National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
  • Licensure. Physician Assistants must possess an active, current, full, and unrestricted license to practice in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia. Physician Assistants must maintain current registration in the State of licensure if this is a requirement for continuing active and current licensure in that State.
  • Physical Requirements. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service.
  • English Language Proficiency. Candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English to be appointed as authorized by 38 U.S.C. 7403(f).
Grade Determinations:
Physician Assistant-I (PA-I)
  • Experience and Education. None beyond the basic requirements. This is the entry level for Physician Assistants. AND
  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. The following list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) present the minimum skill set expected of an Entry Level Physician Assistant. This practice may include, but is not limited to:
    1. Ability to utilize the principles of Physician Assistant practice in the care of assigned patients to provide appropriate care.
    2. Ability to perform patient history and physical.
    3. Ability to formulate a plan and provide treatment to the patient.
    4. Ability to provide patient care that is abreast of changing concepts and advancements in the profession.
Physician Assistant-II (PA-II)
  • Experience and Education. The Physician Assistant at this grade is at the intermediate grade level and has had progressively increasing responsibility and experiences as indicated in the KSAs listed below. Individuals will have demonstrated the ability to analyze and solve more complex medical problems than at the entry level grade and can utilize their training in the successful practice of patient care and participate in team problem solving. Individuals demonstrate the KSAs of PA-II intermediate level by:
    • Two years of successful practice as a PA. OR
    • Successful completion of a Physician Assistant post-graduate residency program sponsored by VHA Office of Academic Affiliations or other postgraduate residency programs accredited by VA, ARC-PA, U.S. Armed Forces, or another accrediting agency. OR
    • A doctoral degree in a health-related field from an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs). Physician Assistants at this level are not required to meet each individual KSA listed below to qualify, but should be able to demonstrate, develop, or acquire those not met upon appointment for PA-II:
    1. Skills to analyze and solve complex medical problems.
    2. Ability to function autonomously and make independent medical decisions.
    3. Skill to incorporate training and experience into the successful practice of patient care including telehealth medical care.
    4. Ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary environment for improvement of services for patient care.
    5. Ability to practice with colleagues and peers collaboratively.
Physician Assistant-III (PA-III)
  • Experience and Education. Physician Assistants at the PA-III grade are at the full performance level and lead and organize patient care independently, practice within multi-disciplinary teams, and coordinate all aspects of patient care across the health care system. They utilize advanced clinical knowledge and judgment in decision-making and evaluating outcomes. They function as experts in clinical practice and/or in areas related to the assigned roles and responsibilities, may serve as mentors for transitioning Physician Assistants, and may provide training for health care students. Individuals can demonstrate the KSAs for the full performance level by:
    • Three years of successful practice as a PA. OR
    • Successful completion of a Physician Assistant post-graduate residency program sponsored by VHA Office of Academic Affiliations or other postgraduate residency programs accredited by VA, ARC-PA, U.S. Armed Forces, or another accrediting agency and one year of professional practice as a PA. OR
    • A doctoral degree in a health-related field from an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and one year of professional practice as a PA.
  • Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities. Physician Assistants at this level are not required to meet each individual KSA listed below to qualify, but should be able to demonstrate, develop, or acquire those not met upon appointment for PA-III:
    1. Ability to clinically evaluate facility patient care delivery systems and validate or identify barriers to safe and effective patient care.
    2. Skill to consistently demonstrate an elevated level of expertise and autonomy in diagnosing and treating seriously ill, multi-symptomatic patients through facility Focused Professional Practice Evaluation (FPPE) and Ongoing Professional Practice Evaluation (OPPE).
    3. Ability to present clinical findings and recommendations to appropriate management officials.
    4. Ability to clinically facilitate the delivery of patient care in collaboration with health professionals, health managers, and other health care personnel.
    5. Ability to implement and initiate clinical changes to established treatment protocols based upon new medical literature research findings to enhance patient delivery care for improved patient outcomes.
    6. Ability to participate clinically in the development of the Physician Assistant patient care audit processes involving in-depth review and analysis of medical records.
Preferred Experience: Certification in the subspecialty of Spinal Cord Injury Medicine is desirable but not required. The incumbent must prove successful completion of an Accreditation Council for Graduates Medical Education or American Osteopathic Association approved post-graduate residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Internal Medicine or Family Practice.
Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is 3. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of 1 to 3.
Physical Requirements: Eligible applicants must be physically and mentally able to perform efficiently the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, without hazard to themselves or others. Depending on the essential duties of a specific position, usable vision, color vision, hearing or speech may be required. However, in most cases, a specific physical condition or impairment of a specific function may be compensated for by the satisfactory use of a prosthesis or mechanical aid.Education:Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER