Registered Medical Coder Salary

Registered medical coders are responsible for maintaining accurate data in a medical environment by assigning and providing medical codes for diagnoses and procedures, as well as categorizing statistics and other medical information for future reference. They may also assist billing departments by providing codes for patients' contracts.

Registered medical coders must be able to analyze large amounts of location, demographic, and clinical data of in- and out-patients for their organizations, and they are also responsible for identifying medical documentation and reviewing concerns for quality purposes. Organization and close attention to detail are important in this position, as these coders must follow strict privacy protocols and utilize multiple coding methods. They must work well in team-settings with strict deadlines, but should also have strong multitasking skills to work well on their own with minimal supervision. Computer skills and advanced typing abilities are also important, as they communicate using both phone and e-mail services to resolve issues.

Registered medical coders must produce accurate results in a fast-paced work environment. They generally work in a medical office setting with other health specialists and interact with physicians, nurses, and other health care administrators on a daily basis to provide up-to-date data. Those in this position must be registered with local, state, and federal organizations and have passed all necessary tests, and a high school diploma is generally required. Prior work experience in a relevant capacity and medical coding certifications are also helpful. (Copyright 2017 PayScale.com)

Registered Medical Coder Tasks

• Protect the security of medical records to ensure that confidentiality is maintained.
• Identify, compile and code patient data, using ICD-9-CM and CPT and other standard classification coding systems.
• Enter data, such as history and extent of disease, diagnostic procedures and treatment into computer database.
• Compile, abstract and maintain patient medical records to document condition and treatment.
• Review records for completeness, accuracy and compliance with regulations.