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Inpatient Coder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HOSPITAL INPATIENT CODER SR

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$36.13 - $55.15/hr

Summary The Hospital Inpatient Coder Senior will be expected to apply extensive knowledge in assigning ICD-10-CM diagnosis and ICD-10-PCS procedure codes and Medicare Severity-Diagnosis Related ...

Coder Auditor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28 - $43.40/hr

Responsibilities The Inpatient Coder Auditor reviews and analyzes documentation present in the medical record for Inpatient visits to ensure accuracy of diagnosis and procedure codes assigned by the ...

Coder Auditor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28 - $43.40/hr

Responsibilities The Inpatient Coder Auditor reviews and analyzes documentation present in the medical record for Inpatient visits to ensure accuracy of diagnosis and procedure codes assigned by the ...

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Inpatient Coder information

See California salary details

$15

$23

$33

How much do inpatient coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for inpatient coder in California is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Inpatient Coder, you need a strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, ICD-10-CM/PCS coding systems, and typically an RHIA, RHIT, or CCS certification. Proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems and specialized coding software is essential for accurate chart review and code assignment. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting complex medical documentation and collaborating with healthcare teams. These skills ensure precise coding for reimbursement, regulatory compliance, and data integrity in healthcare organizations.

Is there a shortage of inpatient medical coders?

Inpatient medical coders are in high demand due to the ongoing need for accurate medical record documentation and billing. The profession often experiences staffing shortages, leading to competitive salaries and opportunities for certification and specialization. This demand is expected to continue as healthcare facilities prioritize coding accuracy and compliance.

What Is an Inpatient Coder?

An inpatient coder works in the medical field and is responsible for medical coding. As an inpatient coder, you are a certified professional and have undergone extensive training, both in class and on-the-job, to understand how to interpret and apply medical codes to patient files based on health and treatment documents received from doctors and nurses. A variety of medical personnel use codes for purposes that include diagnosis, treatment, insurance, and billing. You work with coding software to process claims and should have a broad understanding of terms used in the medical field related to anatomy, biology, and pharmacology. One of your primary responsibilities is keeping accurate medical records.

How much does a hospital coder get paid?

Inpatient coders typically earn a median annual salary between $50,000 and $70,000, depending on experience, certification, and geographic location. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of cases, work setting, and whether the coder is certified in coding systems like ICD-10 or CPC. Many inpatient coders work full-time in hospital environments, often requiring strong attention to detail and familiarity with medical records and coding software.

What are some common challenges faced by inpatient coders, and how can they be addressed?

Inpatient coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical records, keeping up with frequent updates to coding guidelines, and ensuring accuracy under productivity pressures. These challenges can be addressed by regularly participating in coding workshops or continuing education, collaborating closely with clinical staff for clarification, and utilizing coding software tools to streamline the process. Maintaining open communication with the coding team and seeking mentorship from experienced coders can also help new coders navigate the role more effectively.

What is the difference between Inpatient Coder vs Outpatient Coder?

AspectInpatient CoderOutpatient Coder
CertificationsAHIMA CCS, CPC, or CCAAHIMA CCS, CPC, or CCA
Work EnvironmentHospitals, inpatient facilitiesClinics, outpatient facilities
Job FocusInpatient hospital records, DRGsOutpatient visits, procedures
Industry UsageHospitals, inpatient care providersPhysician offices, outpatient clinics

Inpatient Coder and Outpatient Coder both require similar certifications and work in healthcare settings, but they focus on different types of medical records. Inpatient Coders specialize in hospital inpatient records and DRG coding, while Outpatient Coders handle outpatient visit documentation. Understanding these differences helps healthcare organizations assign the right coding professionals for each setting.

Does inpatient coding pay more?

Inpatient coding roles typically offer higher pay compared to outpatient coding due to the complexity of coding inpatient hospital stays and the required certifications like CPC-H or CCS. Salaries can also vary based on experience, location, and employer, but inpatient coding generally commands a higher wage within medical coding specialties.

How do I become an inpatient coder?

To become an inpatient coder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a coding training program or certificate in medical coding. Certification from organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is often required or preferred. Strong knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT is essential for success in this role.

What are Inpatient Coders?

Inpatient Coders are healthcare professionals responsible for reviewing patient medical records and assigning standardized codes for diagnoses, procedures, and services provided during a hospital stay. These codes are essential for accurate billing, insurance claims, and maintaining medical records. Inpatient Coders must have a strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS. Their work helps ensure hospitals receive appropriate reimbursement and that patient data is accurately recorded for analysis and reporting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coder jobs in California? The most popular types of Inpatient Coder jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Inpatient Coder jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Inpatient Coder jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Inpatient Coder jobs? Cities in California with the most Inpatient Coder job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Inpatient Coder jobs in CA? For Inpatient Coder jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Inpatient Coder job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,652 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
HOSPITAL INPATIENT CODER SR

HOSPITAL INPATIENT CODER SR

Moffitt

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$36.13 - $55.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Working at Moffitt is both a career and a mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.As the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt employs some of the best and brightest minds from around the world. Join a dedicated team of nearly 11,000 who are shaping the future we envision. Moffitt has been recognized as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation and is continually named one of the Tampa Bay Times' Top Workplaces.

Summary

The Hospital Inpatient Coder Senior will be expected to apply extensive knowledge in assigning ICD-10-CM diagnosis and ICD-10-PCS procedure codes and Medicare Severity-Diagnosis Related Groupers (MS-DRG) for complex hospital inpatient services. Applies clinical knowledge of disease processes, physiology, pharmacology, and surgical techniques by reviewing and interpreting all clinical documentation included in an inpatient record. Abstracts data in compliance with national and regional policies. Clarifies physician documentation by utilizing a facility-established query process. Demonstrates knowledge of sequencing diagnoses and procedure codes outlined in the ICD-10-CM/ICD-10-PCS Official Coding Guidelines, Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set, CMS guidelines, and other resources as applicable. The Hospital Inpatient Coder Senior is expected to function as a subject matter expert on the team and assist less experience team members on following operational policies. It is responsible fortraining and onboarding new team members and participating in special projects assigned by the Mid Revenue Cycle leadership.The Hospital Inpatient Coder Senior will be expected to apply extensive knowledge in assigning ICD-10- CM diagnosis and ICD-10-PCS procedure codes and Medicare Severity-Diagnosis Related Groupers (MS-DRG) for complex hospital inpatient services. Applies clinical knowledge of disease processes, physiology, pharmacology, and surgical techniques by reviewing and interpreting all clinical documentation included in an inpatient record. Abstracts data in compliance with national and regional policies. Clarifies physician documentation by utilizing a facility-established query process. Demonstrates knowledge of sequencing diagnoses and procedure codes outlined in the ICD-10-CM/ICD-10-PCS Official Coding Guidelines, Uniform Hospital Discharge Data Set, CMS guidelines, and other resources as applicable. The Hospital Inpatient Coder Senior is expected to function as a subject matter expert on the team and assist less experience team members on following operational policies. It is responsible for training and onboarding new team members and participating in special projects assigned by the Mid Revenue Cycle leadership. Responsibilities: Coding Encounter Key Performance Indicator Requirements Constraints of systems Query Knowledge Team Support Special Projects Perform other duties as assigned Credentials and Experience: High School Diploma/GED Five (5) years in hospital inpatient coding experience with ICD-10 diagnosis, procedure codes and MSDRG. Any (one) of the following certifications is required: CCS) Certified Coding Specialist (CPC) Certified Professional Coder (COC) Certified Outpatient Coding (CCS-P) Certified Coding Specialist - Physician (RHIT) Registered Health Information Technician (RHIA) Registered Health Information Administrator (CIC) Certified Inpatient Coder*Any certification not listed above, but issued from a Governing Body listed below, will be considered by the business AHIMA www.ahima.org or AAPC www.aapc.org Minimum Skills/Specialized Training Required Thorough understanding of the effect of data quality on prospective payment, utilization, and reimbursement for multiple medical specialties. Experience in coding hospital inpatient electronic medical records. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience with automated patient care and coding systems. Competence with MS Office software Extensive knowledge of American Healthcare Association ("AHA") coding clinic guidelines, ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS coding guidelines, Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groupers ("MSDRG"), All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groupers ("APRDRG"), Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services ("CMS") guidelines, National Center for Healthcare Statistics ("NCHS"). Preferred Experience Preferred qualifications include:• Experience with coding oncology-related services.

Salary Range

$36.13 - $55.15

Salary ranges posted for this position represent the expected base pay range for the role. Actual compensation may vary based on location and a variety of job-related factors, including experience, skills, education, and internal equity among Team Members in similar positions.


We are committed to maintaining fair and equitable pay practices and regularly review compensation to ensure alignment across our workforce.

Moffitt Career Site

If you have the vision, passion, and dedication to contribute to our mission,then we have a place for you!

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