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Inpatient Coder Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Become a part of our caring community The Inpatient Medical Coding Auditor - PPI Coding Disputes reporting to the Manager reviews the appropriate DRG and ICD-10-CM/ PCS coding assignments for ...

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Coding Auditor

Manchester, IA

$24.50 - $28/hr

... Inpatient Coder/AAPC), or COC (Certified Outpatient Coder/AAPC). * Current or obtained within one year of hire - Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist obtained through Association of Clinical ...

Certified Medical Coder

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Code outpatient and inpatient services for clinic providers in compliance with CPT and ICD-10-CM guidelines, impacting clinic bottom line. * Work system claims scrubber errors, independently making ...

Coding Payment Resolution Spec

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Provides detailed understanding or aptitude for resolving denials based on ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes, ICD-10-PCS codes, and CPT-4 procedural codes for UB-04 outpatient or inpatient claims, or other ...

Medical Coder

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

The Medical Coder ensures optimum reimbursement for medical services through accurate and timely reporting and posting of all physician and ancillary services. Our team consists of individuals who ...

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Inpatient Coder information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$22

$31

How much do inpatient coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for inpatient coder in Iowa is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an inpatient coder?

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 coders?

Inpatient coders are in high demand due to the complexity of hospital coding and the need for accurate medical record documentation. The profession often experiences a staffing shortage, leading to competitive salaries and opportunities for certification and specialization. This demand is expected to continue as healthcare facilities prioritize accurate coding for reimbursement 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa? For Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Inpatient Coder jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Inpatient Coder jobs in IA? For Inpatient Coder jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Inpatient Coder job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,303 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Senior Compliance Coordinator - Inpatient Audit

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

459th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

UI Health Care's Joint Office for Compliance is seeking a Senior Compliance Inpatient Auditor to perform compliance-focused audits of inpatient medical records, coding, billing, and documentation practices to ensure adherence to federal and state regulations, payor requirements, organizational policies, and industry standards. This position evaluates coding accuracy, documentation integrity, MS-DRG assignment, and reimbursement compliance while identifying opportunities for education, risk mitigation, and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct inpatient coding and documentation audits in accordance with organizational policies, CMS regulations, Official Coding Guidelines, and payor requirements.
  • Review medical records to validate ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS code assignment, principal diagnosis selection, procedure coding, Present on Admission (POA) indicators, and MS-DRG assignment by ensuring codes are fully supported by documented clinical indicators.
  • Evaluate compliance with Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial payor billing requirements.
  • Research and interpret coding, billing, and regulatory guidance to support audit findings and recommendations.
  • Analyze audit results to identify trends, compliance risks, educational opportunities, and potential overpayment concerns.
  • Prepare detailed written audit reports that clearly communicate findings, regulatory support, financial implications, and corrective action recommendations.
  • Follow-up with key stakeholders to ensure completion and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Assist with compliance investigations involving inpatient coding, billing, and documentation concerns.
  • Utilize RAT-STATS to identify random samples and statistical values in extrapolating overpayments.
  • Collaborate with Health Information Management (HIM), Coding, CDI, Patient Financial Services, Revenue Integrity, and Compliance teams to address identified issues.
  • Conduct audit meetings and education sessions with coding professionals, CDI staff, providers, and leadership regarding audit findings and regulatory requirements.
  • Perform professional coding and documentation audits on an as needed basis in accordance with organizational policies, CMS regulations, Official Coding Guidelines, and payor requirements.
  • Monitor regulatory updates and changes to coding guidelines, CMS rules, and payor policies affecting inpatient reimbursement and compliance.
  • Maintain audit documentation, workpapers, and supporting evidence in accordance with departmental standards.
  • Participate in development and maintenance of audit methodologies, policies, procedures, and educational materials.

Required Qualifications:
  • A bachelor's degree in health information management or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
  • Active coding credential such as RHIT, RHIA, CCS, CCS-P, CIC, or CPC through a nationally recognized credentialing body such as AHIMA or AAPC.
  • 5 years of inpatient coding experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of
    • ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS coding
    • MS-DRG methodology
    • Official Coding Guidelines
    • CMS inpatient billing regulations
    • Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement requirements
    • Clinical documentation requirements
  • Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
  • Proficiency with electronic medical records, encoder applications, DRG validation tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Demonstrated experience working effectively in a welcoming and respectful workplace environment.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Prior inpatient coding audit or compliance audit experience.
  • Inpatient coder certification.
  • 1-3 years professional coding experience including CPT and HCPCS coding.
  • Experience conducting provider or coder education.
  • Experience in an academic medical center or teaching hospital environment.
  • Knowledge of OIG Work Plan priorities, compliance program requirements, and overpayment investigation processes.
  • Experience with statistical sampling methodologies and audit data analysis.
  • Familiarity with CDI practices and documentation improvement initiatives.

Application Process: To be considered, applicants must upload a cover letter and resume (under the submission of relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position. Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.
  • Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For questions, contact Sharon Walther at sharon-walther@uiowa.edu.

This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization now or in the future.
This position is eligible for hybrid work within Iowa and will require a work arrangement form to be completed upon the start of your employment. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually, and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.

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