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Medical Coder Jobs in California, MD (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Medical Director

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Join us as a Medical Director at VCA St. Mary's Animal Hospital and you'll quickly discover that ... A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ...

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All JobsMedical Coder JobsMedical Coder Jobs in California, MD

Medical Coder information

See California, MD salary details

$15

$21

$32

How much do medical coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical coder in California, MD is $21.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a medical coder?

Medical coders are healthcare professionals who review clinical documents and translate medical diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized codes. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining accurate patient records. Medical coders play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare providers are reimbursed correctly and that records comply with regulatory requirements. They must have a strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and the coding systems used in healthcare, such as ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS.

What does a medical coder do?

A medical coder works in the billing department of doctor's offices, hospitals, or other medical facilities. Medical coders transfer healthcare claims into universal medical codes for insurance reimbursement. To work as a medical coder, you must have great attention to detail and a solid base knowledge of medical terminology, procedure and visit authorizations, and insurance billing procedures. Having a degree is not required, but many employers prefer candidates who have an associate degree in medical coding or the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential. When you first start in this job, your employer may have you shadow other billing staff members and be supervised when you submit your first few claims.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a medical coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems, often supported by a certification such as CPC, CCS, or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software like ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure accurate and efficient code assignment. These skills are crucial to maximize reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce billing errors in healthcare settings.

What are some common challenges medical coders face when working with complex patient records?

Medical coders often encounter challenges when interpreting complex patient records, such as incomplete physician documentation or ambiguous medical terminology. Accurately assigning the correct codes requires strong attention to detail and frequent communication with healthcare providers to clarify information. Staying updated on coding guidelines and regulations is essential, as errors can impact billing and compliance. Many coders find that developing effective organizational habits and leveraging coding software helps manage these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Medical Coder vs Medical Biller?

AspectMedical CoderMedical Biller
CertificationsCertified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS), Certified Professional Biller (CPB)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, physician offices, insurance companiesMedical offices, billing companies, hospitals
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssigning codes to diagnoses and procedures based on medical recordsSubmitting claims, following up on payments, managing billing processes

Medical coders and medical billers work closely in healthcare revenue cycle management. While medical coders focus on translating medical records into standardized codes, medical billers handle the billing process to ensure healthcare providers are reimbursed. Both roles require understanding of healthcare documentation and often share certifications, but their core functions differ in coding versus billing tasks.

How much money do you make as a medical coder?

Medical coders typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $55,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced coders earning more. Salaries can vary based on certification, experience, location, and work setting, such as hospitals or outpatient clinics.

Is it hard to get hired as a medical coder?

Getting hired as a medical coder can be competitive, but having relevant certifications such as CPC or CCS and strong attention to detail improves job prospects. Employers often look for familiarity with coding software and healthcare documentation, and entry-level positions are available for those with proper training.

Is medical coding still a good career?

Medical coding is a stable and in-demand profession due to the ongoing need for accurate medical record documentation and billing. Certified coders with knowledge of coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, along with strong attention to detail, are well-positioned for employment in healthcare settings. The field offers opportunities for remote work and career advancement.
More about Medical Coder jobs

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Medical Coder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Medical Coder job openings in California, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,693 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

CODING SPECIALIST - INPATIENT

Calvert Health System

Prince Frederick, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

  • JOB DESCRIPTION DETAILS
    • Job Summary:
      • Codes and abstracts inpatient medical records in accordance with established coding conventions and guidelines.
    • Education:
      • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Health Information Management (HIM) or Coding, preferred. Position requires formal working knowledge equivalent to a two or four year degree in Coding.
    • Registration/Certification/Licensure:
      • AHIMA Certifications (RHIA, RHIT, CCS, CCS-P)
      • AAPC Certifications (CPC, CPC-H)
    • Experience:
      • 2+ years inpatient hospital coding or 2+ years outpatient hospital coding applicable to current CalvertHealth employees at the time of transfer, required.
      • Possess a strong grasp of: All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR-DRGs) - Maryland, and Potentially Preventable Complications (PPCs)/Maryland Hospital Acquired Conditions (MHACS), required.
      • Familiarity with Meditech, 3M HDM and 3M Coding and Reimbursement System, preferred.
      • 360 Encompass experience, a plus.
    • Other Requirements:
      • Maintains unit-specific and hospital competencies, mandatory learning, and any clinical certifications required in accordance with the Staff Education and Training policy GA-057 and/or any other department requirements.
      • Comprehensive knowledge of Pathophysiology, disease processes, Pharmacology and Medical Terminology.
      • Effectively communicates with clinical and non-clinical staff, both verbally and in writing, by implementing organization-wide communication techniques as a daily practice.
      • Demonstrated proficiency of computer skills necessary to effectively complete position requirements.
      • Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks producing quality work that is timely.
      • Knowledge of HIM workflow.
      • Ability to complete and submit physician queries as appropriate.

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