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Inpatient Coding Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

$33.21 - $61.68/hr

Appropriately analyzes and codes complex inpatient records ... Position requires high-level expertise in coding and documentation guidelines, coding clinics and ...

* Leads, coordinates and performs all functions of quality reviews (routine, pre-bill, policy driven and incentive plan driven) for inpatient coding across multiple HSCs * Assists in ensuring HSC ...

DRG (RN) Auditor

Franklin, TN · On-site

$43.27 - $57.69/hr

This role integrates advanced clinical nursing knowledge with expert inpatient coding proficiency to perform comprehensive post-payment validation of Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) assignments and ...

Job Summary and Qualifications As a work from home Inpatient Coding Auditor, you will be responsible for performing internal quality assessment reviews on Health Information Management Service Center ...

Job Summary and Qualifications As a work from home Inpatient Coding Auditor, you will be responsible for performing internal quality assessment reviews on Health Information Management Service Center ...

Job Summary and Qualifications As a work from home Inpatient Coding Auditor, you will be responsible for performing internal quality assessment reviews on Health Information Management Service Center ...

Job Summary and Qualifications As a work from home Inpatient Coding Auditor, you will be responsible for performing internal quality assessment reviews on Health Information Management Service Center ...

Coding Specialist, Centralized Coding, Inpatient Coder Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Covenant Health Overview: Covenant Health is the region's top-performing healthcare network with ...

Overview Coding Specialist, Centralized Coding, Inpatient Coder Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift Covenant Health Overview: Covenant Health is the region's top-performing healthcare ...

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Inpatient Coding information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$21

$30

How much do inpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for inpatient coding in Tennessee is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a hospital inpatient coder?

To become a hospital inpatient coder, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification in medical coding, such as the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential. Familiarity with medical terminology, coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential for accurate coding in a hospital setting.

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 highest paying medical coder job?

Inpatient coding roles, especially those involving hospital coding and complex cases, tend to be among the highest paying medical coding jobs. Senior coders with certifications like CPC or CCS, along with experience in specialized areas such as trauma or cardiovascular coding, can earn higher salaries. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in larger healthcare facilities often contribute to higher compensation.

Will AI take over inpatient coding jobs?

Inpatient coding involves reviewing medical records and assigning accurate diagnosis and procedure codes, a task that AI tools are increasingly supporting but not fully replacing. Human coders are essential for complex cases, quality assurance, and interpreting nuanced clinical information, making AI a complement rather than a complete substitute at this time.

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.

Is there a shortage of inpatient medical coders?

Inpatient medical coding is experiencing a demand for qualified professionals due to the complexity of hospital billing and the need for accurate documentation. The field often offers job stability and opportunities for certification, such as CPC-H, which can enhance employability. Overall, there is a recognized need for skilled inpatient coders in healthcare settings.

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.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Inpatient Coding jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Inpatient Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Inpatient Coding job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,743 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Inpatient Coder III

$33.21 - $61.68/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Northwell Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 549 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 871 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Must Reside in AL, AZ, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, MA, MD, ME, MI, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA

Northwell is the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, serving residents of New York and Connecticut with 28 hospitals, more than 1,000 outpatient facilities, 22,000 nurses and over 20,000 physicians. Northwell cares for more than three million people annually in the New York metro area, including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, Connecticut and beyond, thanks to philanthropic support from our communities. Northwell is New York State's largest private employer with over 104,000 employees - including members of Northwell Health Physician Partners - who are working to change health care for the better.

Summary:

Appropriately analyzes and codes complex inpatient records. Position requires high-level expertise in coding and documentation guidelines, coding clinics and knowledge of MS DRGs, CC/MCC for appropriate reimbursement and compliance. Acts as a recognized subject-matter expert, leading DRG validation, revenue integrity analyses, and strategic coding compliance projects across the department.

Responsibilities:

  1. Performs ICD-10-CM diagnostic and ICD-10 PCS procedural coding to maintain an accurate database & ensure accurate coding at minimum accuracy rate of 95%.
  2. Competent in the utilization of an electronic medical record, and computerized coding/abstracting systems.
  3. Applies knowledge of diagnosis related group assignment, official Coding guidelines, comorbidity/complication coding, Hospital acquired conditions, accurate present on admission assignment, and current American Hospital Association coding clinic guidance.
  4. Effectively and professionally communicates with providers and/or CDI staff when necessary to clarify documentation in order to assign accurate diagnoses and procedures in order to calculate the appropriate diagnosis related group and severity of illness/risk of mortality.
  5. Ability to code using either 3M encoder or ICD-10-CM/ICD10 PCS codebook.
  6. Mentors and trains junior coders.
  7. Performs audits as assigned by the coding manager.
  8. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of the impact of coding decisions on revenue cycle, including the ability to assist in appealing payer denials.
  9. Responds to all business office questions regarding diagnoses and procedures in a timely manner.
  10. May assist as needed in other coding areas.
  11. Attends and participates in required hospital education programs in order to maintain and enhance their coding skills and stay abreast of changes in codes, coding guidelines and regulations.
  12. Maintains certified coding credentials in accordance with the certified coding requirements and demonstrates annual compliance.
  13. Fulfills all compliance responsibilities related to the position.
  14. Maintain and models the organizations values
  15. Demonstrates regular, reliable and predictable attendance
  16. Performs other duties as assigned.
Requirements:
Essential/Required: Certified Coding Specialist (AHIMA), or Certified Inpatient Coder (AAPC)
Required: Specialized training in medical terminology, ICD-10-CM/ICD-10 PCS coding. Ability to decipher operative reports, medication orders & various medical records in the appropriate selection of codes. Experience in acute care coding inpatient records.
Minimum Experience: Five years demonstrated coding experience in appropriate application of coding and documentation guidelines Desired: Course work in Anatomy and Physiology and knowledge of CPT codes. Education Derived Education Essential: * HS Graduate or Equivalent
Company: Western CT Health Network Inc
Org Unit: 265
Department: Coders
Exempt: No
Salary Range: $32.23 - $59.86 Hourly DOE

Working Conditions:

Manual: Little or no manual skills/motor coord & finger dexterity

Occupational: Little or no potential for occupational risk

Physical Effort: Sedentary/light effort. May exert up to 10 lbs. force

Physical Environment: Generally pleasant working conditions

Company: Nuvance Health

Org Unit: 2070

Department: Coders

Exempt: No

Salary Range: $33.21 - $61.68 Hourly


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