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Outpatient Coding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

HIM Supervisor

Marengo, IA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

This leadership role will oversee inpatient and outpatient coding, clinical documentation integrity (CDI), ROI, and provider deficiency operations. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative HIM ...

HIM Supervisor

Iowa, IA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

This leadership role will oversee inpatient and outpatient coding, clinical documentation integrity (CDI), ROI, and provider deficiency operations. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative HIM ...

Coding Auditor

Manchester, IA · Remote

$24.50 - $28/hr

Performs compliance monitoring and auditing of billing, coding, and documentation related to inpatient, outpatient surgery, observation, emergency department, urgent care, and professional services ...

Coding Educator/Auditor

Belmond, IA · On-site

$24.75 - $28/hr

Must have a minimum of 3 years coding experience and be proficient in ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS coding for inpatient and outpatient hospital encounters and multispecialty clinics. Position requires AAPC ...

Coding Educator

Carroll, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $29.75/hr

The Coder (Clinic - III) performs coding review for surgical specialties for ThedaCare Physician ... and outpatient E&M, and surgical procedures (i.e., cardiology, orthopedic, and general surgery ...

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Outpatient Coding information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$23

$27

How much do outpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for outpatient coding in Iowa is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 CPC or CCS. The process involves gaining knowledge of medical terminology, coding guidelines, and often includes hands-on practice with coding software.

What is an outpatient coder?

An outpatient coder is a healthcare professional responsible for reviewing medical records and assigning standardized codes to outpatient services and procedures for billing and documentation purposes. They use coding systems like ICD-10-CM and CPT and often work in healthcare settings such as hospitals or clinics, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of medical terminology. Certification, such as CPC, is typically preferred or required.

What are the most commonly searched types of Outpatient Coding jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Outpatient Coding jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Outpatient Coding jobs in Iowa?

For Outpatient Coding jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Outpatient Coding job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,313 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Coding/Reimbursement Specialist-Certified

Jefferson County Health Center

Fairfield, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Jefferson County Health Center rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 1,065 rated hospitals


Job description

This position is eligible for remote work in Iowa, after 90 days of training is completed onsite. 

POSITION OVERVIEW (non-exempt):

The Outpatient Coding/Reimbursement Specialist is responsible for the retrieval, assembly, deficiency analysis, and coding of outpatient medical records in accordance with health center guidelines. This role ensures timely chart processing and accurate outpatient reimbursement through charging, auditing, and compliance with applicable regulations. The specialist collaborates closely with providers and ancillary department staff to support accurate documentation and billing practices.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • CCS, CCA: Completion of an accredited certificate program for Medical/Insurance coding and successfully completing the AHIMA exam within 6 months of hiring. Must Maintain CCS/CCA credentials. 1-2 years of coding experience preferred, but not required      

OR

  • RHIT: Completion of an accredited program for Health Information Technology, obtaining an Associate of Applied Science Degree and successfully completing the AHIMA examination within 6 months of hire.  Must maintain RHIT credentials. 1-2 years of coding experience preferred, but not required

ACCOUNTABILITY: 

Reports to Health Information Manager

DIRECT REPORTS:

None

POSITION-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:

Coding & Compliance

  • Responsible for outpatient coding including ICD-10 CM & CPT
  • Required to stay updated with coding guidelines and participate in continuing education
  • Responsible for enforcing Medicare compliance guidelines as they apply to outpatient coding 
  • Responsible for assigning Evaluation & Management, CPT, and modifiers on ED and observation patients
  • Operate Solventum encoder and Epic EHR efficiently
  • Performs monthly therapy coding correlation for cycle billing

Reimbursement & Auditing

  • Execute outpatient reimbursement functions including charging, auditing, and maintaining consistent interpretation of edits and regulations
  • Follow established procedures for coding claim edits

Documentation & Systems

  • Thorough knowledge and comprehension of established HIM office procedures, billing, coding routines and systems
  • Follow established procedures for chart deficiencies
  • Serve as backup to the Deficiency Clerk

General Duties

  • Attends all required meetings and in-services
  • Performs other related duties as requested or required

Skills and Competencies

  • Strong analytical, oral, written, and communication skills
  • Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully in person, remotely, and by phone.
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to learn quickly from oral and written instructions
  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
  • Solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
  • Proficiency in ICD-10-CM and CPT coding
  • Knowledge of HIPAA and healthcare compliance regulations
  • Ability to resolve coding discrepancies and collaborate with healthcare providers
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently
  • Strong teamwork skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and contribute to a positive team environment

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Works in a well-illuminated, climate-controlled environment
  • May come in contact with hazardous chemical or treatment modalities
  • Possibility exists of exposure to communicable diseases
  • Involvement in inpatient care may result in unavoidable work-related illness or injury
  • Work environment is comfortable, with minimal exposure to physical hazards
  • Moderate to loud noise environment when machines/equipment in use
  • Involvement in checking in/moving of supplies may result in unavoidable work-related injury
  • Must be constantly alert for patient/family emergency situations

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