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Exempt Medical Coder Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Patient Account Representative

Nashville, TN ยท Hybrid

$17.50 - $23/hr

... medical coding, and contracting related issues. * Responsible for timely follow-up on all appeal ... exempt employees. Read more about our benefits here. #LI-HYBRID Our Values * Connection: Care ...

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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 14, 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:
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Neonatology

Neonatal Nurse Practitioner - Neonatology

University Clinical Health

Memphis, TN โ€ข On-site

$116K - $152K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Who We Are:


As the only independent and physician-led faculty practice plan of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, University Clinical Health (UCH) offers best-in-class clinical care through a network of 175+ providers across 19 specialties to meet the healthcare needs of the Mid-South community. UCH is a not-for-profit, non-tax-supported group practice and is here to serve the community while providing medical excellence to our patients. ย University Clinical Health is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. University Clinical Health is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. ย 


Position Summary:


Provides total patient management for neo-natal patients in collaboration with and under the direction of a physician by assessing, diagnosing and treating acute and chronic health problems. Follows established neo-natal standards, procedures and protocols, and gives patient care directions to nursing and other staff. Adjusts nursing care processes to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Has knowledge of coding and billing parameters that govern provision of patient care by Nurse Practitioner within state of Tennessee and as related to individual carriers. Ensures that documentation is completed in accordance with institutional guidelines. Ensures and maintains the confidentiality of patient information and other UTMG business information in accordance with HIPAA and other compliance standards. Complies with the Code of Conduct and other established policies, including but not limited to compliance, quality and safety. Acts in accordance with UT Medical Groups' mission at all times.


Key Results Areas (KRAs):

  • Patient assessment
  • Patient treatment plans
  • Clinical procedures
  • Patient/medication orders
  • Test interpretation
  • Parent education
  • Patient/family satisfaction
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Chart documentation
  • Delivery room management/resuscitation
  • Team orientation
  • Patient care protocols
  • Discharge planning

Requirements

Core Competencies:

  • Knowledge of OSHA regulations
  • Knowledge of FDA
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills


Education & Experience:

  • Licensed as an RN, MSN degree and certification as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner required (must include Certification and prescriptive authority)
  • State of Tennessee licensure is required
  • 2 years experience as a Nurse Practitioner preferred

University Clinical Health provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. University Clinical Health is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor - priority referral Protected Veterans requested.


Effective November 1, 2021, UCH requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (or have an approved medical or religious exemption from UCH). Please note that a job offer is contingent on submitting proof of COVID-19 vaccination or UCH approval of a medical or religious exemption request. Employees with approved exemptions will be required to undergo weekly COVID-19 testing at an assigned UCH testing location and time.