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Outpatient Coder Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Outpatient Surgery Coder

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Fully Remote LaSalle Network is hiring for a skilled Outpatient Surgery Coder to support a high-performing healthcare team in a fully remote environment. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in ...

Coder lll -Inpatient Coder

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31 - $36/hr

Codes Complex Outpatient or Inpatient utilizing encoder software and online tools and references, in the assignment of ICD, CPT, HCPCS codes, MS-DRG, POA, SOI & ROM assignments, APC assignment and ...

Codes Complex Outpatient or Inpatient utilizing encoder software and online tools and references, in the assignment of ICD, CPT, HCPCS codes, MS-DRG, POA, SOI amp; ROM assignments, APC assignment and ...

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Outpatient Coder information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$25

$30

How much do outpatient coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for outpatient coder in Chicago, IL is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

For outpatient coders, the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) typically offers higher salaries than the CCS (Certified Coding Specialist), as CPCs often work in outpatient settings like physician offices and tend to have broader coding responsibilities. Salary differences can also depend on experience, certifications, and geographic location, with CPCs generally earning more due to their focus on outpatient coding and billing.

What is an outpatient coder?

An outpatient coder is a healthcare professional responsible for reviewing medical records and assigning accurate billing codes for outpatient services, such as doctor visits and outpatient procedures. They ensure proper documentation and coding compliance using coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, often working in healthcare settings with knowledge of medical terminology and coding software.

What is the difference between Outpatient Coder vs Inpatient Coder?

AspectOutpatient CoderInpatient Coder
CertificationsAHIMA CCS, CPC, or CPC-HAHIMA CCS, CPC, or CPC-H
Work EnvironmentOutpatient clinics, physician offices, outpatient departmentsHospitals, inpatient facilities
Job FocusAmbulatory services, outpatient procedures, office visitsHospital stays, complex inpatient procedures
Common UsageHealthcare providers managing outpatient recordsHospitals and inpatient care providers

Outpatient Coder and Inpatient Coder both require similar certifications and work in healthcare settings, but they focus on different types of patient records. Outpatient Coders handle ambulatory and outpatient services, while Inpatient Coders specialize in hospital stays. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path and employers.

What are some common challenges faced by outpatient coders, and how can they be overcome?

Outpatient coders often face challenges such as keeping up with frequent changes in coding regulations, accurately interpreting complex clinical documentation, and managing high volumes of cases under tight deadlines. To overcome these challenges, coders should stay current with ongoing education, utilize official coding resources, and collaborate closely with healthcare providers to clarify documentation when necessary. Joining a supportive coding team also helps in sharing knowledge and best practices, which can improve accuracy and reduce stress.

What are outpatient coders?

Outpatient coders are healthcare professionals responsible for reviewing patient medical records and assigning standardized codes to diagnoses and procedures for outpatient services, such as those provided in clinics or emergency departments. These codes are used for insurance billing, reimbursement, and maintaining accurate patient records. Outpatient coders must have a thorough understanding of coding systems like CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS, as well as knowledge of healthcare regulations and compliance guidelines. Their work is essential to ensure proper billing and to support the financial health of medical facilities.

What is the highest paid medical coder?

Outpatient coders with advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills in areas like cardiology or radiology tend to earn the highest salaries. Senior-level or managerial outpatient coders can also reach top pay, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on location and employer.

How long does it take to become a certified outpatient coder?

Becoming a certified outpatient coder typically requires completing a coding training program, which can take from several months up to a year, followed by passing a certification exam such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) or Certified Outpatient Coder (COC). The process involves gaining knowledge of medical coding systems, billing procedures, and healthcare regulations, and may also include gaining practical experience. The total time depends on the individual's prior education and the specific certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outpatient Coder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outpatient Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical coding systems (such as ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS), healthcare documentation, and compliance regulations, typically backed by a certification like CPC or CCS. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is essential for accurately processing patient information. Keen attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help coders resolve discrepancies and collaborate with healthcare professionals. These abilities ensure accurate billing, regulatory compliance, and optimal reimbursement for healthcare providers.
What are the most commonly searched types of Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Outpatient Coder job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,642 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Medical Records Technician Inpatient/Outpatient Coder

Customer Value Partners

North Chicago, IL • Remote

$30/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

CVP is seeking Medical Records Technicians (Inpatient/Outpatient Coders) to join our team in providing medical coding services in support of the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) located in North Chicago, IL.

This is a fully remote position, with working hours of Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm CST. The FHCC serves over 75,000 Veterans from the northeastern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin area, operating 354 inpatient beds and seeing approximately 215,000 inpatient admissions and outpatient visits annually.


  • Review health care provider medical record coding for completeness and accuracy, and clarify and correct provider coding as necessary.
  • Query providers via encrypted Outlook email using the Provider Query Foundation OneNote to ensure accurate coding reporting, in compliance with VHA HIM Practice Brief standards.
  • Abstract medical, surgical, laboratory, pharmaceutical, radiologic, demographic, social, and administrative data from the medical record in a timely manner, ensuring all diagnoses and procedures are identified, documented, sequenced correctly, and coded accurately.
  • Determine the most appropriate codes for routine and/or new and unusual diagnoses and procedures not clearly listed in ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and HCPCS.
  • Review and screen entire medical records to ensure all conditions and care rendered are appropriately documented, coded, and sequenced in accordance with coding compliance guidelines and the National Correct Coding Initiative.
  • Ensure physician documentation supports the diagnoses and procedures coded, contacting clinicians via e-mail or face-to-face meetings as necessary.
  • Concurrently code inpatient encounters when not completing assigned discharged cases (inpatient coders only).
  • Query clinicians using encrypted Outlook emails and 3M/Solventum 360 for clarification of conflicting or ambiguous information, ensuring all queries are closed no later than 30 days after the date of discharge or service.
  • Maintain coding accuracy at 95% or greater in accordance with contract performance standards.
  • Maintain the accuracy of diagnostic and procedural statistics for the facility to support optimum appropriate reimbursement from third-party payers.
  • Keep abreast of regulatory changes affecting coded information as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and other applicable regulatory bodies.
  • Comply with all HIPAA standards, VHA Coding Guidelines, and all relevant civilian and VA Handbooks and Directives, including those of the Joint Commission, AMA, AHA, and CMS.
  • Maintain privacy and confidentiality of all patient records and sensitive information in accordance with the Privacy Act and applicable VA/VHA directives.

  • Ability to successfully undergo a Government-sponsored background investigation; US Citizenship is required, and must be proficient in spoken and written English.
  • Associate's degree from an accredited college or university with a major field of study in health information technology/health information management, or a related degree with a minimum of 12 semester hours in health information technology/health information management; a bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of continuous coding experience in a facility having a patient population equal to or exceeding the VA's current patient population.
  • Must possess at least one of the following active certifications:
    • Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) - AHIMA
    • Certified Coding Specialist (CCS or CCS-P) - AHIMA
    • Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) - AHIMA
    • Certified Professional Coder (CPC) - AAPC
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Oracle Cerner applications, 3M/Solventum application, ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, Evaluation and Management (E/M) Level Coding, and HCPCS.
  • Strong working knowledge of MS-DRG logic, CC/MCC capture, POA indicators, and National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) guidelines.
  • Familiarity with medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and healthcare documentation standards.
  • Experience with inpatient surgical coding, including complex scenarios such as multiple procedures, staged procedures, revisions, returns to OR, and device replacements is preferred.
  • Prior VA or federal healthcare system coding experience is preferred.

Location:

  • Remote support for the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) located in North Chicago, IL.

Shift

  • Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm CST.

Position Pays:

  • Hourly Pay: $30.00/hr
  • Health & Wellness (H&W): $5.09/hr (H&W will be prorated based on enrollment in the benefits offered, including automatic enrollment in employer-paid plans).

About CVP

CVP is an award-winning healthcare and next-gen technology and consulting services firm solving critical problems for healthcare, national security, and public sector clients. We help organizations achieve lasting transformation.

CVP is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to actively recruiting individuals and providing advancement opportunities based on merit and legitimate job qualifications. We ensure that all associates receive equal opportunities based on their personal qualifications and job requirements. CVP strictly prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment.

At CVP, we cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all associated. We are committed to maintaining a workplace where everyone can grow both personally and professionally.