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Inpatient Coding Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Lead Inpatient DRG Coder - Remote

New Orleans, LA · On-site +1

$20.75 - $25.25/hr

This individual will mentor, train and assist with cross training coding staff, includes newly ... Codes complex outpatient or inpatient utilizing encoder software, Computers Assisted Coding (CAC ...

Inpatient Coder (REMOTE)

Baton Rouge, LA · Remote

$21 - $25.25/hr

The Medical Coder 3 (inpatient and ambulatory surgery) abstracts clinical information from a ... Works with coding databases and confirms DRG assignments. Familiar with standard concepts ...

Minimum three (3) years Of current complex outpatient and inpatient coding (required) * Preferred Experience: coding experience in Cardiology EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS * Required: Completion of an ...

Minimum three (3) years Of current complex outpatient and inpatient coding (required) * Preferred Experience: coding experience in Cardiology EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS * Required: Completion of an ...

The Must-Haves EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS Minimum three (3) years Of current complex outpatient and inpatient coding (required) Preferred Experience: coding experience in Cardiology EDUCATION ...

$33.50 - $38/hr

Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC), Registered Health Information Management Administrator (RHIA), Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Certified Clinical Documentation Specialist (CCDS ...

Coder III

Covington, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) required or 3 years of inpatient coding experience in lieu of CCS Above educational qualifications can be substituted for: * 3 - 6 years of coding experience OR ...

Coder III

Covington, LA · On-site +1

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) required or 3 years of inpatient coding experience in lieu of CCS Above educational qualifications can be substituted for: * 3 - 6 years of coding experience OR ...

Manager Clinical Documentation

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$33.25 - $45/hr

Seven years clinical nursing experience or strong inpatient coding background with at least Seven years acute inpatient coding experience. Previous management or supervisory experience and firm ...

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Inpatient Coding information

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How much do inpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for inpatient coding in Louisiana is $20.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is inpatient coding?

Inpatient coding is the process of translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and services provided during a patient's hospital stay into standardized codes, such as ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining accurate patient records. Inpatient coders review documentation from physicians and other healthcare providers to assign the most appropriate codes that reflect the care given. Accurate inpatient coding ensures hospitals are properly reimbursed and comply with regulations.

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

To thrive as an Inpatient Coder, you need in-depth knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10-CM/PCS coding systems, usually supported by credentials such as RHIA, RHIT, or CCS certification. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software like 3M or TruCode is critical for efficient and accurate code assignment. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help coders ensure compliance, accuracy, and timely billing. These skills are vital for ensuring proper reimbursement, maintaining regulatory compliance, and supporting hospital operations.

What are some common challenges faced by inpatient coders and how can these be managed effectively?

Inpatient coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical records, keeping up with frequent coding updates, and ensuring accurate documentation for compliance and reimbursement. These challenges can be managed by staying current with ICD-10 and DRG changes, participating in ongoing training, and communicating regularly with clinical staff to clarify documentation. Many coders also benefit from mentorship programs and support from experienced team members, which help them navigate difficult cases and maintain high accuracy standards.

What is the difference between Inpatient Coding vs Outpatient Coding?

AspectInpatient CodingOutpatient Coding
CredentialsAHIMA or AAPC certification, CPC or CCSSimilar certifications, CPC or CCS
Work EnvironmentHospitals, inpatient facilitiesClinics, outpatient centers
Industry UsageUsed for hospital inpatient recordsUsed for outpatient visits and procedures

Inpatient Coding and Outpatient Coding share similar credentials and are both essential in healthcare billing. Inpatient Coding focuses on hospital stays, requiring detailed coding of diagnoses and procedures during inpatient admissions. Outpatient Coding, on the other hand, covers outpatient visits and procedures, often with less complex documentation. Understanding these differences helps healthcare professionals choose the right specialization for their career and ensures accurate billing and reimbursement.

Does inpatient coding pay more?

Inpatient coding professionals often earn higher salaries compared to outpatient coders due to the complexity of inpatient medical records and coding requirements. Factors such as experience, certifications like CPC or CCS, and work setting can also influence pay rates. Overall, inpatient coding tends to be a higher-paying specialization within medical coding roles.

How do you become an inpatient coder?

To become an inpatient coder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing 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, and familiarity with coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT is essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Louisiana?

The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Louisiana are:

What cities in Louisiana are hiring for Inpatient Coding jobs?

Cities in Louisiana with the most Inpatient Coding job openings:

Infographic showing various Inpatient Coding job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,155 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Lead Inpatient DRG Coder - Remote

LCMC Health

New Orleans, LA • On-site, Remote

$20.75 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


LCMC Health rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

530th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Your job is more than a job
The Coder Lead will code all patient types as needed; inpatient, same-day surgery, ancillary, ambulatory and provider based clinics. This individual will mentor, train and assist with cross training coding staff, includes newly hired coding staff. Must be familiar with reviewing documentation to assign appropriate CPT/HCPCS and ICD-10-CM-PCS diagnosis codes and procedures for hospital and physician (professional) services for Inpatient and Outpatient records based on knowledge of coding systems, including ICD-10 and CPT.
Your Everyday
GENERAL DUTIES
Proficiently navigates the patient health record and other computer systems/sources to accurately determine diagnosis and procedures codes, MS-DRGs and APCs.
Codes complex outpatient or inpatient utilizing encoder software, Computers Assisted Coding (CAC), and reference, in the assignment of ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT/HCPCS codes, MS-DRG, APR-DRG, POA, SOI, ROM assignments, APC assignment and all required modifiers.
Validates charges by comparing charges with health record documentation as necessary.
Utilizes retrospective edit tool to address possible coding and/or documentation issues related to submitted diagnosis and procedure information obtain from the health record.
Communicates effectively with clinical staff, physicians and office staff and Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialist regarding documentation issues or needs related to Inpatient, Outpatient, or Ambulatory coding.
Identifies concerns and notifies appropriate leadership for resolution. Responsible for providing resolution to moderate to complex problems.
Tracks issues (i.e. missing documentation, charges and physician queries) that require follow-up to facilitate coding in a timely fashion.
Consistently meets or exceeds coding quality and productivity standards established by coding department.
Adheres to LCMC confidentiality requirements as they relate to release of any individual or aggregate patient information.
Maintains up-to-date knowledge of changes in coding and reimbursement guidelines and regulations.
Performs other duties as assigned by leadership.
Maintains working knowledge of applicable coding and reimbursement Federal, State and local laws and regulations, the Code of Ethics, as well as other policies and procedures in order to ensure adherence in a manner that reflects honest, ethical and professional behavior.
The Must-Haves
Minimum:
EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS
5 years of current complex outpatient and inpatient coding
EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS
Associate Degree in health information management or related field or an equivalent combination of years of education and experience
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
American Health Information Management Associations (AHIMA) or American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Certification Name: Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC)
American Health Information Management Associations (AHIMA) or American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
American Health Information Management Associations (AHIMA) or American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Internal staff who are not certified must obtain medical coding certification within twelve months through an approved LCMC coding program.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Extensive comprehensive working knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, diagnostic and procedural coding and MS-DRG or APC grouping.
  • Experience utilizing encoding/grouping software.
  • Ability to use standard desktop and windows-based computer system, including basic understanding of email, internet, and computer navigation.
  • High ethical standards.
  • Knowledge of ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT/HCPCS, MS-DRG, APR-DRG and APC coding principles and guidelines.
  • Experience in ICD-10-CM/PCS coding and reimbursement training.
  • Knowledge of Prospective Payment System (PPS) methodology for inpatient, outpatient, ambulatory and provider-based clinic encounters.
  • Extensive knowledge of hospital and professional coding including provider-based billing.
  • Knowledge of documentation regulations of Joint Commission and CMS.
  • Experience with concurrent coding reviews.
  • Knowledge of privacy and security regulations, confidentiality, laws, access and release of information practices.
  • Experience in assisting and identifying learning needs as well as providing training to coding staff.
  • Strong analytical abilities and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to organize and set priorities to ensure objectives are met in a timely manner.
  • Ability to adapt to change and handle challenges proactively and with pose.
  • Ability to effectively collaborate with physicians and managerial staff at all levels.

WORK SHIFT:
Days (United States of America)
LCMC Health is a community.
Our people make health happen. While our NOLA roots run deep, our branches are the vessels that carry our mission of bringing the best possible care to every person and parish in Louisiana and beyond and put a little more heart and soul into healthcare along the way. Celebrating authenticity, originality, equity, inclusion and a little "come on in" attitude is the foundation of LCMC Health's culture of everyday extraordinary
Your extras
  • Deliver healthcare with heart.
  • Give people a reason to smile.
  • Put a little love in your work.
  • Be honest and real, but with compassion.
  • Bring some lagniappe into everything you do.
  • Forget one-size-fits-all, think one-of-a-kind care.
  • See opportunities, not problems - it's all about perspective.
  • Cheerlead ideas, differences, and each other.
  • Love what makes you, you - because we do

You are welcome here.
LCMC Health is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The above job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. LCMC Health reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet organizational needs as necessary.
Simple things make the difference.
1. To get started, take your time to fully and accurately complete the application for employment. Incomplete applications get bogged down and are often eliminated due to missing information.
2. To ensure quality care and service, we may use information on your application to verify your previous employment and background.
3. To keep our career applications up-to-date, applications are inactive after 6 months and, therefore, require a new application for employment to be completed.
4. To expedite the hiring process, proof of citizenship or immigration status will be required to verify your lawful right to work in the United States.

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About LCMC Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

LCMC Health, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, US, is a non-profit health system committed to providing high-quality healthcare services. Established in the year 2009, the company operates in the healthcare industry and dexterously manages several institutions, including children’s hospitals, academic medical centers, and local area hospitals. Employing over 8,500 skilled professionals across its network, LCMC Health's mission is to provide healthcare that goes beyond the ordinary to make a positive difference in every life it touches. Their core values encapsulate this mission too, prominently featuring care, innovation, trust, and respect.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Orleans, LA, US

Year founded

2009

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