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Outpatient Medical Coding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Certified Outpatient Medical Coder Location: UCHealth Admin Lowry, US:CO: Denver ... UCHlth Professional Coding FTE: Full Time, 1.0, 80.00 hours per pay period (2 weeks) Shift: Days ...

Medical Coding Manager

East Orange, NJ · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

As the coding Manager oversees production, quality, and consistency of the inpatient/outpatient/ED ... The medical coding manager will abide by standard protocols of the profession while using their own ...

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Outpatient Medical Coding information

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$15

$22

$34

How much do outpatient medical coding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for outpatient medical coding in the United States is $22.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an outpatient coder do?

An outpatient medical coder reviews medical records from outpatient visits to assign accurate diagnosis and procedure codes using coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT. They ensure billing compliance, support reimbursement processes, and often use coding software, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of medical terminology. Certification such as CPC is commonly preferred.

What is outpatient medical coding?

Outpatient medical coding is the process of translating healthcare services, procedures, and diagnoses provided to patients who are not admitted to a hospital into standardized codes. These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and maintaining accurate medical records. Outpatient coders typically work in clinics, physician offices, or ambulatory care centers and use coding systems like CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS. Accuracy in coding is crucial to ensure appropriate reimbursement and compliance with healthcare regulations.

Are medical coders still in demand?

Medical coders, including outpatient medical coders, are in strong demand due to the ongoing need for accurate billing and coding in healthcare. The role requires knowledge of coding systems like ICD-10 and CPT, and job prospects remain stable as healthcare providers prioritize compliance and reimbursement processes.

What field of medical coding pays the most?

In medical coding, outpatient medical coding generally offers higher salaries compared to inpatient or physician office coding, especially for coders with specialized skills in outpatient procedures and billing. Certified professional coders with certifications like CPC or CCS often earn more, and those with expertise in specialties such as radiology or cardiology tend to have higher pay. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of the coding environment influence salary levels.

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

Outpatient medical coders often encounter challenges such as interpreting incomplete or ambiguous clinical documentation and keeping up with frequent changes in coding guidelines (e.g., CPT, ICD-10-CM). To address these, coders should maintain open communication with healthcare providers for clarification and participate in ongoing training or certification programs. Staying organized and utilizing reputable coding resources can also help ensure accuracy and compliance in daily coding tasks.

What pays more, CCS or CPC?

In outpatient medical coding, Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credentials generally lead to higher salaries compared to Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credentials due to their focus on hospital coding and advanced expertise. However, salary differences can vary based on experience, location, and employer, with CCS often commanding a premium in specialized or hospital settings. Both certifications are valuable, but CCS typically offers higher earning potential for outpatient coding roles.

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

To thrive as an Outpatient Medical Coder, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, coding guidelines (CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS), and typically a certification such as CPC or CCA. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and coding software is essential for accurate code assignment and efficient workflow. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring data accuracy and collaborating with healthcare professionals. Mastery of these skills ensures compliant, precise coding, which supports accurate billing and the financial health of healthcare organizations.

What is the difference between Outpatient Medical Coding vs Inpatient Medical Coding?

AspectOutpatient Medical CodingInpatient Medical Coding
CredentialsCertified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Outpatient Coder (COC)Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC), CPC
Work EnvironmentHospitals, outpatient clinics, physician officesHospitals, inpatient facilities
Industry UsageAmbulatory care, outpatient servicesHospital inpatient stays
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Outpatient Medical Coding involves assigning codes for services provided in outpatient settings like clinics and physician offices, focusing on ambulatory care. Inpatient Medical Coding, on the other hand, pertains to coding for hospital stays and inpatient services. Both roles require similar certifications and are essential in healthcare billing, but they differ mainly in the work environment and type of patient care coded.

More about Outpatient Medical Coding jobs
What cities are hiring for Outpatient Medical Coding jobs? Cities with the most Outpatient Medical Coding job openings:
What states have the most Outpatient Medical Coding jobs? States with the most job openings for Outpatient Medical Coding jobs include:
Infographic showing various Outpatient Medical Coding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,638 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Certified Outpatient Medical Coder

Certified Outpatient Medical Coder

UCHealth Colorado Career

Denver, CO • Remote

$24.11 - $36.17/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


UCHealth (Colorado) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 445 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Description

Certified Outpatient Medical Coder 

Location: UCHealth Admin Lowry, US:CO: Denver

Department: UCHlth Professional Coding

FTE: Full Time, 1.0, 80.00 hours per pay period (2 weeks)

Shift: Days 

Pay: 24.11 - 36.17 / hour. Pay is dependent on applicant's relevant experience.

This is a 100% remote position. Eligible, out-of-state candidates may be considered. 

Summary:
Assigns codes to medical diagnoses and procedures using appropriate coding classifications for assigned areas/record types. This is a 100% remote position; eligible out-of-state candidates may be considered. 

Responsibilities:
Reviews medical records to determine all appropriate diagnostic and procedural code assignments using the appropriate classifications systems.
Assigns charges for applicable clinics/departments as appropriate.
Communicates with department manager/supervisor on coding, compliance and documentation issues.
Seeks clarification from healthcare providers or other designated resources to ensure accurate and complete coding. Enhances coding knowledge and skills with continuing education activities and by reviewing pertinent literature.

Within scope of job, requires critical thinking skills, decisive judgement and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and take appropriate action.

Requirements:

  • High School diploma GED.
  • Coding-related certification from AHIMA or AAPC.

Preferred:

  • 2 years Professional Medical Outpatient Coder work experience. 

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UCHealth invests in its Workforce.

UCHealth offers a Three Year Incentive Bonus to recognize employee's contributions to our success in quality, patient experience, organizational growth, financial goals, and tenure with UCHealth. The bonus accumulates annually each October and is paid out in October following completion of three years' employment.

UCHealth offers their employees a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package (benefit eligibility is based off of FTE status):

  • Medical, dental and vision coverage including coverage for eligible dependents
  • 403(b) with employer matching contributions
  • Time away from work: paid time off (PTO), paid family and medical leave (inclusive of Colorado FAMLI), leaves of absence; start your employment at UCHealth with PTO in your bank
  • Employer-paid basic life and accidental death and dismemberment coverage with buy-up coverage options
  • Employer paid short term disability and long-term disability with buy-up coverage options
  • Wellness benefits
  • Full suite of voluntary benefits such as flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care, health savings accounts (available with HD/HSA medical plan only), identity theft protection, pet insurance, and employee discount programs
  • Education benefits for employees, including the opportunity to be eligible for 100% of tuition, books and fees paid for by UCHealth for specific educational degrees. Other programs may qualify for up to 5,250 pre-paid by UCHealth or in the form of tuition reimbursement each calendar year

Loan Repayment:

  • UCHealth is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program! UCHealth provides employees with free assistance navigating the PSLF program to submit their federal student loans for forgiveness through Savi.

UCHealth always welcomes talent. This position will be open for a minimum of three days and until a top applicant is identified.

UCHealth recognizes and appreciates the rich array of talents and perspectives that equal employment and diversity can offer our institution. As an equal opportunity employer, UCHealth is committed to making all employment decisions based on valid requirements. No applicant shall be discriminated against in any terms, conditions or privileges of employment or otherwise be discriminated against because of the individual's race, color, national origin, language, culture, ethnicity, age, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law. UCHealth does not discriminate against any qualified applicant with a disability as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable accommodations, when they do not impose an undue hardship on the organization. 

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