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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 ...

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Outpatient Coder information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17

$26

$30

How much do outpatient coder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for outpatient coder in Chicago, IL is $26.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.15 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an outpatient coder?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL? For Outpatient Coder jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Outpatient Coder job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,374 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

$29.36 - $47.79/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Rush University Medical Center rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 1,058 rated hospitals


Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: Medical Records

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:30:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www. rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $29.36 - $47.79 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:
Accurately and independently makes decisions based on specialized knowledge and standard protocol. This includes, but is not limited to coding inpatient and outpatient. Exemplifies the Rush mission, vision, and values, and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures.

Other information:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
High School (GED) required
RHIA, RHIT, and/or CCS Certification required
Minimum 3 years experience in medical record coding required
Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy and physiology required
Windows applications, Outlook, WebEx and other apps as needed to perform role
Cooperates well with others
Competent attention to detail and accuracy
Proficient with computer use and software applications
Ability to concentrate on task at hand in open distracting environment independent manner; minimizing distractions in private work-from-home space
Ability to apply local, state, and federal coding guidelines with attention to detail.

Responsibilities:
•Assigns ICD-10-CM-PCS and/or CPT-4 diagnostic and procedure codes to patient charts with accuracy and attention to detail
•Abstracts selected data items and enters in 3M encoder/Epic software with accuracy and attention to detail
•Completes UHDDS data abstraction as required
•Maintains a log of work performed
•Completes other assigned duties as directed by management

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.


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