1

Inpatient Coding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$30.55 - $48.12/hr

The HIM Hospital Inpatient & Same Day Surgery Coding Analyst deciphers and interprets provider documentation in the health record and assigns diagnostic information using ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT codes ...

Inpatient Coder

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

Coding of inpatient/outpatient medical records in accordance with AHA Coding/NCCI compliance guidelines. *Inpatient experience preferred * Review medical records online and assign ICD-10-CM and CPT ...

Inpatient Coder

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22.96 - $34.44/hr

Coding of inpatient/outpatient medical records in accordance with AHA Coding/NCCI compliance guidelines. *Inpatient experience preferred * Review medical records online and assign ICD-10-CM and CPT ...

Inpatient Coder

Richmond, VA

$20 - $24.25/hr

Coding of inpatient/outpatient medical records in accordance with AHA Coding/NCCI compliance guidelines. *Inpatient experience preferred * Review medical records online and assign ICD-10-CM and CPT ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Inpatient Coding information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$23

$33

How much do inpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for inpatient coding in Virginia is $23.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $25.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Inpatient Coding jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Inpatient Coding jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Inpatient Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Inpatient Coding job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,875 per year, or $23.5 per hour.
Coding Inpatient Auditor & Education Specialist-Full time, Days, Remote

Coding Inpatient Auditor & Education Specialist-Full time, Days, Remote

Centra Health

Lynchburg, VA • Remote

$30.78 - $44.65/hr

Other

Posted 29 days ago


Centra Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 118 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

557th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

The Auditor/Educator Inpatient Coding performs internal Inpatient coding audits and coordinates Inpatient coder education in the Health Information Management department. Conducts data quality audits of inpatient encounters to validate coding assignments is in compliance with the official coding guidelines as supported by clinical documentation in health records. Validates abstracted data elements that are integral to appropriate payment methodology. Prepares and distributes audit results/reports to Coding Management staff. Prepares and presents education to Inpatient coding staff based on audit findings and denials related to Inpatient coding following ICD-10 Coding Conventions, Official Guidelines for Coding & Reporting, and American Hospital Association Coding Clinic guidance. Assists in the development of programs and procedures to support improvement of coding accuracy rate.

Required Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in health information management or a related field 
  • Minimum of five (5) years of hospital Inpatient coding experience
  • In-depth knowledge of ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS
  • Proficient in Diagnosis Related Groups structure (MS-DRG, APR-DRG), and Inpatient Prospective Payment System
  • Knowledge of reimbursement methodologies and claims processing. 
  • Ability to develop educational materials and job aids pertaining to Inpatient coding. 
  • American Health Information Management Association credentialed, RHIT or CCS
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Products including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Strong Analytical skills, Critical Thinking, and excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's degree in health information management or related field 
  • Previous Inpatient auditing experience

Salary Range: $30.78-$44.65/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • This position will work with the Corporate Director of Health Information Management and Inpatient Coding Manager to design, plan, and organize training programs and timelines for new hire and ongoing staff education.
  • Monitors and reports coders progress through the orientation and training process.
  • Develops ongoing audit schedule for all Inpatient  coding staff and reviews cases for accurate ICD-10-CM/PCS, Diagnosis Related Group,  Present on Admission Indicators, Severity of Illness,  Risk of Mortality, and  discharge disposition assignments.
  • Conducts random and focused quality audits on all Inpatient Centra and contracted/vendor coding staff.
  • Documents audit findings, trends and ensures they are investigated, and timely education is prepared and reviewed with coding staff when necessary.
  • Keeps abreast of new regulatory requirements, annual revisions to the codes, etc. and applies this information appropriately.
  • Communicates clearly, leads innovative and engaging training and education sessions for Inpatient coding staff development.
  • Serves as a resource and subject matter expert to Inpatient coding staff
  • Monitors changes in laws, regulations, standards as they affect coding, billing, and related compliance. 
  • Develops and maintains Inpatient  facility specific coding guidelines.
  • Attend Inpatient  Denials Management meetings.
  • Assists with the analysis of Case Mix Index (CMI) reports.
  • Shares audit trends and key findings with Health Information Management team. Participates in strategic planning workgroups to develop and plan education curriculums.

Other Functions:

  • Maintains strict confidentiality of all information, including financial/operational, employee/human resource, healthcare/patient data and information.
  • Works in close collaboration with Inpatient Coding Manager and Corporate Director of Health Information to ensure timely, accurate education. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

What Centra Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom