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Exempt Medical Coder Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

$33.21 - $61.68/hr

Competent in the utilization of an electronic medical record, and computerized coding/abstracting ... Coders Exempt: No Salary Range: $33.21 - $61.68 Hourly

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

Medical Assistant (MA)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

$1000 Sign on Bonus A non-exempt medical office position responsible for providing direct nursing ... in the Code of Conduct; adhering to federal and state laws, rules, regulations, and corporate ...

Medical Assistant

Westmoreland, TN · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

... Exempt Status Non-Exempt Security Roles Clinical Care Specialist We have two (2) open positions ... coding and billing processes, verifying insurance information, and collecting co-payments.

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Exempt Medical Coder information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$20

$31

How much do exempt medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for exempt medical coder in Tennessee is $20.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is AI replacing medical coders?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist medical coders by automating routine coding tasks and improving accuracy. However, human medical coders are still essential for complex cases, quality assurance, and interpreting nuanced medical documentation. The role of medical coders involves skills in coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and AI serves as a tool to enhance their work rather than replace them entirely.

Are medical coders being phased out?

Medical coders, including exempt medical coders, are not being phased out; in fact, the demand for skilled coding professionals remains steady due to ongoing healthcare documentation and billing needs. Advances in technology, such as coding software and electronic health records, have changed workflows but have not eliminated the need for accurate human coding, especially for complex cases requiring clinical judgment. Certification and familiarity with coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT are valuable for job stability in this field.

What are Exempt Medical Coders?

Exempt Medical Coders are professionals who review clinical documentation and assign standardized medical codes for billing and insurance purposes. The term 'exempt' typically refers to their employment classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), meaning they are salaried employees and not eligible for overtime pay. Exempt Medical Coders often require certification and specialized training to ensure accuracy and compliance with healthcare regulations. Their work is essential for efficient healthcare billing, reimbursement, and maintaining accurate patient records.

Is a medical coder still in demand?

Medical coders, including exempt medical coders, are in steady demand due to ongoing healthcare industry needs for accurate coding and billing. The role requires knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and often certification, which helps ensure job stability in various healthcare settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exempt Medical Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exempt Medical Coder, you need a strong grasp of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems, typically supported by certification such as CPC, CCS, or CCA. Proficiency with coding software, electronic health records (EHRs), and compliance tools is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are critical soft skills for accurately interpreting and coding complex medical data. These skills and qualifications ensure correct billing, regulatory compliance, and optimized reimbursement for healthcare organizations.

What are the common challenges faced by Exempt Medical Coders when interpreting complex medical records?

Exempt Medical Coders often encounter challenges when interpreting complex or incomplete medical records, especially when documentation lacks specificity or uses ambiguous terminology. Accurately translating this information into standardized codes requires strong attention to detail and a deep understanding of both medical terminology and coding guidelines. Coders frequently collaborate with healthcare providers to clarify diagnoses or procedures, ensuring compliance and minimizing billing errors. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for accurate reimbursement and supporting quality patient care.

What is the difference between Exempt Medical Coder vs Non-Exempt Medical Coder?

AspectExempt Medical CoderNon-Exempt Medical Coder
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CPC, CCS)Certification often preferred but not always required
Work EnvironmentTypically office-based, salariedOften hourly, may include part-time roles
Employer UsageHospitals, clinics, healthcare organizationsSimilar settings, sometimes outpatient facilities
Work Hours & OvertimeUsually salaried, may include overtimePaid hourly, eligible for overtime

Exempt Medical Coders are salaried employees who typically work standard hours and may have access to benefits, while Non-Exempt Medical Coders are paid hourly and are eligible for overtime pay. Both roles require similar certifications and work in healthcare settings, but their pay structure and overtime eligibility differ.

Can I get a job as a medical coder with no experience?

Entry-level medical coder positions often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a certification such as CPC or CCS and familiarity with coding software. Gaining relevant training or completing a coding course can improve job prospects for those new to the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coder jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Medical Coder jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Exempt Medical Coder jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Exempt Medical Coder job openings:
Inpatient Coder III

$33.21 - $61.68/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Northwell Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 549 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 872 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Must Reside in AL, AZ, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA

Northwell is the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, serving residents of New York and Connecticut with 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians. Northwell cares for more than three million people annually in the New York metro area, including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Connecticut and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Northwell is New York State’s largest private employer with over 104,000 employees — including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners — who are working to change health care for the better. 

Summary:

Appropriately analyzes and codes complex inpatient records. Position requires high-level expertise in coding and documentation guidelines, coding clinics and knowledge of MS DRGs, CC/MCC for appropriate reimbursement and compliance. Acts as a recognized subject-matter expert, leading DRG validation, revenue integrity analyses, and strategic coding compliance projects across the department.

Responsibilities:

  1. Performs ICD-10-CM diagnostic and ICD-10 PCS procedural coding to maintain an accurate database & ensure accurate coding at minimum accuracy rate of 95%.
  2. Competent in the utilization of an electronic medical record, and computerized coding/abstracting systems.
  3. Applies knowledge of diagnosis related group assignment, official Coding guidelines, comorbidity/complication coding, Hospital acquired conditions, accurate present on admission assignment, and current American Hospital Association coding clinic guidance.
  4. Effectively and professionally communicates with providers and/or CDI staff when necessary to clarify documentation in order to assign accurate diagnoses and procedures in order to calculate the appropriate diagnosis related group and severity of illness/risk of mortality. 
  5. Ability to code using either 3M encoder or ICD-10-CM/ICD10 PCS codebook.
  6. Mentors and trains junior coders.
  7. Performs audits as assigned by the coding manager.
  8. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of the impact of coding decisions on revenue cycle, including the ability to assist in appealing payer denials.
  9. Responds to all business office questions regarding diagnoses and procedures in a timely manner.
  10. May assist as needed in other coding areas.
  11. Attends and participates in required hospital education programs in order to maintain and enhance their coding skills and stay abreast of changes in codes, coding guidelines and regulations. 
  12. Maintains certified coding credentials in accordance with the certified coding requirements and demonstrates annual compliance.
  13. Fulfills all compliance responsibilities related to the position.
  14. Maintain and models the organizations values
  15. Demonstrates regular, reliable and predictable attendance
  16. Performs other duties as assigned.
 
Requirements:
Essential/Required:  Certified Coding Specialist (AHIMA), or Certified Inpatient Coder (AAPC)
Required: Specialized training in medical terminology, ICD-10-CM/ICD-10 PCS coding. Ability to decipher operative reports, medication orders & various medical records in the appropriate selection of codes. Experience in acute care coding inpatient records.
Minimum Experience: Five years demonstrated coding experience in appropriate application of coding and documentation guidelines Desired: Course work in Anatomy and Physiology and knowledge of CPT codes. Education Derived Education Essential: * HS Graduate or Equivalent
 
Company: Western CT Health Network Inc
Org Unit: 265
Department: Coders
Exempt: No
Salary Range: $32.23 - $59.86 Hourly DOE
 

Working Conditions:

Manual: Little or no manual skills/motor coord & finger dexterity

Occupational: Little or no potential for occupational risk

Physical Effort: Sedentary/light effort. May exert up to 10 lbs. force

Physical Environment: Generally pleasant working conditions

Company: Nuvance Health

Org Unit: 2070

Department: Coders

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $33.21 - $61.68 Hourly


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