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Medical Coding Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Hospice Medical Coder

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Adhere to updated Coding department processes for specific clinical services/payors that meet ... Strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. * Experience with billing ...

Hospice Medical Coder

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Adhere to updated Coding department processes for specific clinical services/payors that meet ... Strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. * Experience with billing ...

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Medical Coding information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$14

$20

$31

How much do medical coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical coding in Columbia, SC is $20.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $22.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is medical coding?

Medical coding is the process of translating healthcare diagnoses, procedures, medical services, and equipment into standardized codes. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining patient records. Medical coders review clinical documents to assign the appropriate codes from classification systems like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS. Accurate coding is essential to ensure proper reimbursement and compliance with regulations.

What exactly does a Medical Coder do?

A Medical Coder reviews healthcare documentation, such as physician notes and patient records, and assigns standardized codes to diagnoses, procedures, and services using coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and medical record keeping, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of medical terminology and coding guidelines.

What is the difference between Medical Coding vs Medical Billing?

AspectMedical CodingMedical Billing
Primary RoleAssigns standardized codes to diagnoses and proceduresProcesses insurance claims and manages billing for healthcare services
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CPC, CCS)Certification (e.g., CPC, Certified Professional Biller)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, insurance companiesMedical offices, billing companies, hospitals
Industry UsageUsed for record-keeping, reimbursement, and data analysisHandles claims submission, payment follow-up, and patient billing

Medical Coding and Medical Billing are closely related healthcare roles. Medical Coders focus on translating medical records into standardized codes, while Medical Billers handle the financial aspect by submitting claims and managing payments. Both roles often work together but serve distinct functions within the revenue cycle.

Which medical coding pays the most?

Senior medical coders, especially those with certifications like CPC-H or CCS, tend to earn the highest salaries in medical coding. Specialized roles such as coding managers or auditors also typically offer higher pay, often due to increased experience and expertise in complex coding systems and compliance requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by medical coders and how can they be managed effectively?

Medical coders often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequent updates to coding standards (like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS), interpreting complex patient records accurately, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. To manage these challenges, it's crucial to participate in ongoing training, utilize coding resources and guidelines, and communicate regularly with healthcare providers for clarification. Many organizations also provide support through collaborative coding teams and access to coding software, making it easier to maintain accuracy and stay current with industry changes.

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 thorough understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and ICD-10/CPT coding systems, usually supported by a relevant certification such as CPC or CCS. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software like 3M or EncoderPro is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help ensure accuracy and efficiency in coding. These competencies are crucial for ensuring correct billing, compliance with regulations, and timely reimbursement for healthcare providers.

Is medical coding still a good career?

Medical coding is a stable and in-demand profession, as healthcare providers require accurate coding for billing and compliance. The role often requires certification, such as CPC, and offers opportunities for remote work and career advancement within the healthcare industry.

How long will it take to become a Medical Coder?

Becoming a medical coder typically requires completing a training program or certificate course that lasts from several months up to a year. Many coders also pursue certification, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC), which can take additional time to prepare for and obtain. Overall, the process can take from 6 months to 1 year depending on the program and certification path chosen.
What are the most commonly searched types of Medical Coding jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Medical Coding jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Medical Coding jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Medical Coding job openings:
Infographic showing various Medical Coding job openings in Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,146 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Business Analyst - Clinical Analyst & Coding Specialist - Contract - Remote

Business Analyst - Clinical Analyst & Coding Specialist - Contract - Remote

SUNSHINE ENTERPRISE USA LLC

Columbia, SC • Remote

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Business Analyst - Clinical Analyst & Coding Specialist Location: Fully Remote Interview Process: 1 round, Virtual/Online Duration: 12 Months Employment Type: Contract Experience Required: 08+ Years Candidate Location: Candidate MUST be a SC resident. No relocation allowed. Project Scope: We are seeking an experienced Business Analyst - Clinical Analyst & Coding Specialist to support Medicaid policy, coding analysis, claims processing, and MMIS initiatives for a large healthcare and government environment.

This role will serve as a subject matter expert (SME) supporting medical coding compliance, coding updates, policy remediation, and Medicaid business process improvements. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in medical coding, healthcare insurance operations, Medicaid claims processing, and payer systems, along with a clinical background and the ability to collaborate with both technical and business teams. This role will also contribute to future MMIS modernization and replacement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities: Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for medical coding methodologies, Medicaid policy, and healthcare claims processing. Support annual, quarterly, and ad hoc ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding updates received from CMS. Perform analysis of medical coding changes and assess impact on business processes, claims adjudication, and system functionality.

Conduct initial code reviews and determine the scope and business impact of coding updates. Prepare and distribute coding change listings for review by Medicaid program teams and reference administration staff. Collaborate with policy owners, stakeholders, developers, and business teams to support change requests and MMIS enhancements.

Participate in MMIS modernization and replacement project meetings, providing coding and business process expertise. Research business rules, operational requirements, and process models to develop recommendations and solutions. Maintain business rules, coding documentation, requirements repositories, and process documentation.

Facilitate meetings with agency personnel, stakeholders, and operational teams. Support policy remediation efforts and ensure alignment between coding standards and operational workflows. Assist with development and maintenance of training documentation and process materials.

May review patient records against established medical necessity criteria as backup support. Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams supporting Medicaid operations and healthcare initiatives. Required Skills & Experience: 5+ years of experience in healthcare insurance, medical review, program integrity, or appeals 5+ years of experience working with IT developers/programmers in a payer environment 5+ years of hands-on medical coding experience in a payer environment 5+ years of Strong expertise in ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding methodologies and translation 5+ years of Strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology 3+ years clinical experience in a healthcare environment (strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.) Experience supporting Medicaid operations and MMIS systems Strong analytical, documentation, and business requirements gathering skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite Preferred Skills: 5+ years of experience in policy remediation 5+ years of experience with claims processing systems 5+ years of Experience using: Optum Encoder, Other medical coding software platforms 3+ years of clinical experience in a healthcare environment Strong clinical assessment and critical-thinking skills Experience supporting government healthcare or managed care operations License Must have current, active, and non-restricted licensure by the State of South Carolina Board of Nursing as a Registered Nurse

Certification Currently credentialed as CPC (Certified Professional Coder) or as CCS (Certified Coding Specialist). ICD-10 Proficiency demonstrated by exam; or able to become certified within one year of employment. Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) OR Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).