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Outpatient Coding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Medical coder

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Maintain a minimum coding accuracy rate of 95%. * Complete outpatient and ancillary encounters within three business days. * Complete inpatient professional-fee coding within three business days.

Medical coder

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Maintain a minimum coding accuracy rate of 95%. * Complete outpatient and ancillary encounters within three business days. * Complete inpatient professional-fee coding within three business days.

Remote Coders

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$28.50 - $30/hr

Outpatient and professional-fee coding within 3 business days * Abstract required coding and clinical data into the VA national encoder system. * Review documentation and identify coding or ...

Showing results 21-40

Outpatient Coding information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$23

$27

How much do outpatient coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 Representative - Professional Coding Division (PCD) - Patient Financial Services

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

464th of 629 rated colleges and universities


Job description

University of Iowa Health Care's department of Professional Coding Division is seeking a Coding Representative to assign ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes and CPT procedure codes for services including comprehensive coding professional services, professional outpatient encounters, and professional services provided during hospital inpatient stays.
This position is eligible to participate in remote work and applicants who wish to work remotely will be considered. Training will be held either ONSITE or via Hybrid (Inhouse/Teams) from the HSSB building at a length determined by the supervisor. Remote eligibility will be evaluated upon a satisfactory job training opportunity. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.
University of Iowa Health Care-recognized as one of the best hospitals in the United States-is Iowa's only comprehensive academic medical center and a regional referral center. Each day more than 12,000 employees, students, and volunteers work together to provide safe, quality health care and excellent service for our patients. Simply stated, our mission is: Changing Medicine. Changing Lives.®
WE CARE Core Values:

  • Welcoming: We have an environment where everyone has a voice that is heard; that promotes the dignity of our patients, trainees, and employees; and allows all to thrive in their health, work, research, and education.
  • Excellence: We achieve and deliver our personal and collective best in the pursuit of quality and accessible health care, education, and research.
  • Collaboration: We collaborate with health care systems, providers, and communities across Iowa and the region as well as within our UI community. We believe teamwork - guided by compassion - is the best way to work.
  • Accountability: We behave ethically, act with fairness and integrity, take responsibility for our own actions, and respond when errors in behavior or judgment occur.
  • Respect: We create an environment where every individual feels safe, valued, and respected, supporting the well-being and success of all members of our community.
  • Empowerment: We commit to fair access to research, health care, and education for our community and opportunities for personal and professional growth for our staff and learners.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Review medical records to assign CPT/HCPCS and/or ICD-10-CM diagnosis and procedure codes in accordance with internal policies, coding guidelines, and regulations.
  • Monitor compliance/coding standards and policies to ensure UI Health Care receives full and accurate reimbursement for services in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations, including HIPAA.
  • Communicate with physicians/other qualified health care practitioners, residents, and other staff when additional information is needed for accurate code assignment, or to resolve situations where the recommended coded service is not supported in the documentation and/or not consistent with coding and regulatory guidelines.
  • Meet departmental targets regarding volume and accuracy of codes assigned.
  • Adopt and incorporate initiatives that improve compliance and reduce risks to the institution.
  • Assist in providing and analyzing reports related to documentation issues, coding patterns, physician productivity, reimbursement trends, etc.
  • Participate in internal coding and development training when needed.
Classification Title: Coding Representative
Department: Professional Coding Division (Patient Financial Services)
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Percent of Time: 100%
Schedule: Monday - Friday between the hours of 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Pay Grade: 2B
Location: Hospital Support Services Buildings (HSSB) in Coralville, Iowa
This position is eligible to participate in remote work and applicants who wish to work remotely will be considered. Training will be held either ONSITE or via Hybrid (Inhouse/Teams) from the HSSB building at a length determined by the supervisor. Remote eligibility will be evaluated upon a satisfactory job training opportunity. Per policy, work arrangements will be reviewed annually and must comply with the remote work program and related policies and employee travel policy when working at a remote location.
Equipment:
  • Onsite - The department will provide a workstation which contains 3 (three) monitors, laptop/power cord, docking station/power cord, keyboard, mouse, headset, and desk supplies can be found in the supply closet.
  • Hybrid - while working onsite, the department will provide a workstation which contains 3 (three) monitors, a laptop/power cord, docking station/power cord, keyboard, mouse, headset, and desk supplies. When working offsite, the employee will take their laptop/power cord to carry back and forth, a second docking station/power cord to keep offsite. Prior to working offsite, the employee, at their own expense, will need to supply 2 (two) monitors, in addition to the university-issued laptop, which will serve as a third monitor due to its built-in camera function, a keyboard, and a mouse. Employees will be required to provide a photo of the domicile office setup and perform an internet speed test by visiting https://www.speedtest.net/ with a minimum 30mb download and 10mb upload reflecting a University of Iowa IP address, then providing a screenshot of the speed test to HR. The employee's remote workstation should replicate the onsite setup as if they were working onsite at HSSB.
  • Remote - when working offsite, the department will provide the employee a laptop/power cord, docking station/power cord, headset. Prior to working offsite and at their own expense, the employee will be required to obtain or possess 2 (two) monitors, in addition to the university-issued laptop, which will serve as a third monitor due to its built-in camera function, a keyboard, and a mouse. Employees will be required to provide a photo of the domicile office setup and perform an internet speed test by visiting https://www.speedtest.net/ with a minimum 30mb download and 10mb upload reflecting a University of Iowa IP address, then providing a screenshot of the speed test to HR. The employee's remote workstation should replicate the onsite setup as if they were working onsite at HSSB.
Education Required:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in education and/or experience.
Required Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of professional/physician coding rules. Experience with ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS, National Correct Coding Initiative edits (NCCI), National Coverage Determinations (NCD), Local Coverage Determinations (LCD), and Outpatient coding guidelines for official coding and reporting.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology.
  • Proficiency with standard office computer software applications (i.e., Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Detailed-oriented with excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
  • Demonstrated ability to handle complex and ambiguous situations with minimal supervision.
Certifications:
  • RHIT, RHIA, CPC, CPC-A, or equivalent certification through a nationally recognized credentialing body such as AHIMA or AAPC is required.
Desirable Qualifications:
  • At least one year of experience with medical coding and/or billing preferred.
  • Knowledge of coding and billing requirements for services furnished in a teaching setting.
  • Knowledge and experience with federal healthcare regulations, such as HIPAA and CMS requirements.
  • Experience with Epic.
  • AI in Healthcare related training.
  • Knowledge of UI Health Care's Patient Financial Services' functions, systems, processes, and policies.
  • Ability to work independently in a remote work environment, to organize/prioritize work, practice excellent communication skills, is attentive to detail, demonstrates follow through skills and maintains a positive attitude.
Application Process: In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" for the submission:
  • Resume
  • (optional) Cover Letter
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 7 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the date of closing.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
For additional questions, please contact Veronica Clark at veronica-clark@uiowa.edu.
Applicant Resource Center: Need help submitting an application or accepting an offer? Support is available! Our Applicant Resource Center is now open in the Fountain Lobby at the Main Hospital.
Hours:
  • Monday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday 10:00 am - 4:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday 10:00 am - 4:00 p.m.
  • Thursday 10:00 am - 4:00 p.m.
  • Friday 10:00 am - 4:00 p.m.

Or by appointment - Contact TAHealthCareSupport@healthcare.uiowa.edu to schedule an appointment or just stop by.
Visit the website for more information: Application Resource Center | University of Iowa Health Care

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