What Is a Coding Consultant and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A coding consultant reviews patient charts, billing receipts, and other medical documents, such as insurance reimbursement files, to ensure the information is entered into a database accurately. As a coding consultant, your duties may also include submitting invoices, providing advice on how to improve the accuracy of data entry, and developing training for medical coders. You may work in an inpatient or outpatient office, travel to different facilities to assist, or work at home remotely.

To become a coding consultant, you typically need a strong working knowledge of standardized medical coding practices and classifications, as well as experience in the healthcare industry, preferably as a medical coder or similar position. Employers may also require you to have an associate or bachelor’s degree in information technology or health management systems, along with a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) credential. Important skills for the career include keen attention to detail, computer literacy, and familiarity with spreadsheet and medical database software.