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Forensics Medical Coder Jobs in Poplar Grove, IL

Forensics Medical Coder information

See Poplar Grove, IL salary details

$14

$20

$32

How much do forensics medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for forensics medical coder in Poplar Grove, IL is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensics medical coder do?

A forensics medical coder reviews medical records related to forensic cases, such as injuries or causes of death, and assigns appropriate medical codes for documentation and legal purposes. They often work with detailed reports, require knowledge of medical terminology, and may use coding systems like ICD and CPT to ensure accurate classification for investigations or legal proceedings.

What is the difference between Forensics Medical Coder vs Medical Coder?

AspectForensics Medical CoderMedical Coder
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CPC, CCS)Certification (e.g., CPC, CCS)
Work EnvironmentCrime labs, forensic departments, hospitalsHospitals, clinics, insurance companies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, forensic agencies, healthcareHealthcare facilities, insurance companies
Job FocusMedical coding related to forensic cases, legal documentationGeneral medical coding for billing and records

While both roles require medical coding certifications, Forensics Medical Coders specialize in coding for forensic cases and legal documentation within law enforcement or forensic settings. Medical Coders typically work in healthcare environments focusing on billing and medical records. The key difference lies in the work environment and case focus, with Forensics Medical Coders handling specialized forensic data.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forensics medical coder?

To thrive as a Forensics Medical Coder, you need a thorough understanding of medical terminology, forensic procedures, and coding systems, typically validated by a certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with coding software, electronic health records (EHRs), and forensic documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and ethical judgment are crucial soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills ensure accurate coding for legal and insurance purposes, supporting the integrity of forensic medical records and proper reimbursement.

What challenges do forensics medical coders face when handling sensitive case documentation?

Forensics Medical Coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical records from autopsies or crime scenes, ensuring accuracy while handling sensitive or graphic information, and maintaining strict confidentiality. They must be detail-oriented to correctly translate nuanced forensic findings into standardized codes, which is crucial for legal and insurance purposes. Additionally, they regularly collaborate with forensic pathologists and law enforcement, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to navigate multidisciplinary teams.

What is a forensics medical coder?

Forensics Medical Coders are specialized professionals who review, analyze, and assign standardized codes to medical records related to forensic cases, such as deaths, injuries, or legal investigations. They work closely with forensic pathologists, law enforcement, and legal teams to ensure accurate documentation and classification of medical data for legal and administrative purposes. Their coding helps facilitate investigations, legal proceedings, and the compilation of public health statistics. Additionally, Forensics Medical Coders must have a strong knowledge of medical terminology, legal standards, and specific coding systems used in forensic contexts.

How much does a forensics medical coder make?

A forensics medical coder typically earns between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, certification, and location. The role requires knowledge of medical terminology, coding systems like ICD and CPT, and attention to detail, often working in forensic or medical examiner environments.
What cities near Poplar Grove, IL are hiring for Forensics Medical Coder jobs? Cities near Poplar Grove, IL with the most Forensics Medical Coder job openings:

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner-Casual Rotating Shift

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare

Mchenry, IL • On-site

Other

Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 390 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Company Description
At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?
Job Description
The Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.
  • The SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) is a registered professional nurse who provides exemplary specialized, trauma-informed medical forensic services to all individuals who presents with a complaint or concern of sexual assault. These services will be prompt, non-judgmental and compassionate while encouraging autonomy and reducing psychological trauma. The medical forensic services may include a medical forensic exam and evidence collection, counseling for emergency contraception, prophylactic treatment for sexually transmitted infections, photo documentation, and referrals for appropriate medical and psychological follow-up, support and participation in legal proceedings.
Responsibilities:
  • Acts autonomously following the professional standards as outlined by the Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act (SASETA), the Illinois Nurse Practice Act, the International Association of Forensic Nurses Scope and Standards of Practice, and unit specific protocols appropriate to the patient population served.
  • Works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team, including SANE coordinator, providers, imaging and therapeutic services to facilitate care of sexual assault survivor.
  • Maintains documentation standards with accurate, timely and complete recording and reporting to ensure compliance with SASETA.
  • Maintains appropriate survivor privacy and chain of custody for all evidence collected, including Illinois State Police Evidence Collection Kit (ISPECK).
  • Remains up to date on current regulatory and legislative guidelines related to treatment and documentation standards for sexual assault survivors.
  • Educates survivors and their families to meet their emotional and healthcare needs to aid in the recovery process.
  • Performs assigned work safely, adhering to established departmental safety rules and practices, reports to supervisor, in a timely manner, any unsafe activities, conditions, hazards, or safety violations that may cause injury to oneself, other employees, patients and/or visitors.
  • Testifies in court as a fact witness and/or expert and assists other SANEs in preparing for court proceedings.
  • Provides a learning atmosphere by sharing knowledge with coworkers; participates in orientation of new staff by providing content relevant to caring for sexual assault survivors.
  • Supports continuous quality improvement efforts designed to enhance patient outcomes, increase patient satisfaction, and improve the overall care of sexual assault survivors
  • Ensures professional growth and development by participating in and utilizing current evidence-based information and keeping current with standards in Forensic and SANE nursing practice.
  • Maintains required medical and forensic continuing education requirements per current regulatory or legislative guidelines.
  • Participates in goal setting, program development and evaluation of the regional and system-wide SANE programs.
  • Attends monthly SANE meetings and participates in peer review.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) with commitment to obtain a BSN from an accredited program within three years of first day of employment in clinical nurse role OR Master's degree from an accredited school/college of nursing and Advance Practice Registered Nurse (IL) license
  • Current Illinois Licensure as a Registered Nurse in good standing
  • BLS certification upon hire
  • Completion of the IL SANE Clinical Training Program within 1 year of hire
    • Completion of an International Association of Forensic Nursing (IAFN) approved 40-hour didactic class
    • Completion of the IL SANE Clinical Training Log
Preferred:
  • Adult/Adolescent SANE or Pediatric/Adolescent SANE
  • Certified SANE-A or Certified SANE-P
  • ACLS Certification
  • TNCC or TNS
  • PALS

Additional Information
Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.
Background Check
Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check. Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
Benefits
We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.
Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family.

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