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Outpatient Coding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Outpatient Coding Specialist

Columbia, MD · On-site

$23.65 - $38.20/hr

The Outpatient Coding Specialist analyzes and interprets clinical documentation to accurately code and abstract primarily Ambulatory Surgery records and other outpatient records for all MedStar ...

This position is responsible for assignment of diagnoses and procedure codes on all outpatient records for the billing process and the statistical database. Responsible for daily review of the ...

Our Outpatient Coding Quality Associate will be responsible for reviewing clinical documentation and diagnostic results as appropriate (i.e., to extract data and apply appropriate ICD-10-CM, HCPCS ...

Outpatient coding is applicable towards clinical, provider office visits, therapeutic, laboratory, recurring, emergency department, outpatient observation, and ambulatory surgery patient encounters.

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Outpatient Coding information

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How much do outpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for outpatient coding in the United States is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outpatient Coding vs Inpatient Coding?

AspectOutpatient CodingInpatient Coding
CredentialsAHIMA or AAPC certification, CPC or CCSSame certifications, CPC or CCS
Work EnvironmentOutpatient clinics, physician offices, outpatient departmentsHospitals, inpatient facilities, acute care settings
Industry UsageAmbulatory care, outpatient servicesHospital inpatient stays, acute care
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Outpatient Coding and Inpatient Coding both require similar credentials and certifications, such as CPC or CCS. Outpatient Coding focuses on coding services provided in outpatient settings like clinics and physician offices, while Inpatient Coding deals with hospital stays and acute care admissions. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path and prepare for industry-specific coding tasks.

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 strong understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT, typically backed by a certification like CPC or CCS. Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems, coding software, and compliance with regulatory guidelines is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong organizational skills help coders accurately interpret medical documentation and ensure correct billing. These skills are critical to ensure proper reimbursement, minimize errors, and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations.

What are some common challenges outpatient coders face when ensuring accurate and timely coding?

Outpatient coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex medical documentation, keeping up with frequent changes to coding guidelines (such as CPT and ICD-10), and working within tight deadlines to meet billing and reimbursement cycles. They also need to collaborate closely with healthcare providers to clarify ambiguous documentation and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Success in this role often depends on strong attention to detail, effective communication skills, and a commitment to ongoing education.
More about Outpatient Coding jobs
What cities are hiring for Outpatient Coding jobs? Cities with the most Outpatient Coding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Outpatient Coding jobs? The most popular types of Outpatient Coding jobs are:
What states have the most Outpatient Coding jobs? States with the most job openings for Outpatient Coding jobs include:
Outpatient Coding Specialist

Outpatient Coding Specialist

MedStar Health

Columbia, MD • On-site

$23.65 - $38.20/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 238 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About the Job

General Summary of Position

MedStar Health is currently seeking experienced Outpatient Coding Specialists who are passionate about coding accuracy, compliance, and supporting quality patient care. Qualified candidates must have at least two years of recent facility outpatient coding experience with demonstrated expertise in Ambulatory Surgery, Outpatient Clinic, and/or Emergency Department coding. Candidates must also hold an active CCS, CCS-P, or COC certification.

The Outpatient Coding Specialist analyzes and interprets clinical documentation to accurately code and abstract primarily Ambulatory Surgery records and other outpatient records for all MedStar entities in accordance with established ICD-10-CM/PCS CPT and other applicable coding classification schemes.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • Contributes to the achievement of established department goals and objectives and adheres to department policies procedures quality standards and safety standards. Complies with governmental and accreditation regulations.
  • Abstracts and ensures accuracy of diagnoses procedure patient demographics and other required data elements.
  • Adheres to all compliance regulations and maintains annual compliance education.
  • Maintains continuing education and seeks ongoing education to improve job performance. Maintains credentials as required for job classification.
  • Contacts physician when conflicting or ambiguous information appears in the medical record. Adheres to the MedStar Coding Query Policy and procedure.
  • Consistently meets or exceeds established Quality standards as defined by policies.
  • Consistently meets or exceeds established Productivity standards as defined by policies.
  • Resolves all quality reviews timely (e.g. Medical necessity reviews; Coding Quality assurance reviews; external vendor reviews).
  • Reviews medical record documentation to identify diagnoses and procedures. Assigns correct diagnostic procedural codes and appropriate modifiers using standard guidelines and automated encoding software maintaining departmental accuracy standards.
  • Exhibits knowledge of the Solventum system and other work-related equipment.
  • Participates in meetings and on committees and represents the department and hospital in community outreach efforts.
  • Participates in multi-disciplinary quality and service improvement teams.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimal Qualifications
Education

  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Associate's degree preferred or
  • Bachelor's degree in coding related degree preferred and
  • Courses in Medical Terminology Anatomy & Physiology ICD-CM and CPT-4 required

Experience

  • 2 years ASU (Ambulatory Surgery) coding experience and experience with clinical information systems (Solventum grouper electronic medical records computer assisted coding) required

Licenses and Certifications

  • CCS (Certified Coding Specialist) CCS-P (Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-based) required or
  • COC (Certified Outpatient Coder) required and
  • RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician) preferred and
  • RHIA (Registered Health Information Administrator) preferred

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

  • Verbal and written communication skills.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills; ability to prioritize workloads and meet deadlines.

This position has a hiring range of
USD $23.65 - USD $38.20 /Hr.

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About Medstar Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MD, US

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