As the name suggests, an inpatient is someone who’s been admitted to a hospital or any other medical facility for over 24 hours or overnight to receive extended medical treatment.
Hospital inpatient coders assign specific codes to medical procedures, tests and treatments provided to patients. Naturally, inpatient coders are visibly more involved than outpatient coders.
They don’t just code a few medical procedures used in an outpatient stay, but must accurately code every medical service availed by patients throughout their stay at the facility.
Despite a relatively demanding list of job duties and long working hours, a career in inpatient medical coding is well worth it. Competitive salaries, a fast growth rate, health insurance & retirement plans and a rewarding line of work are only some of the reasons this field is so popular.
This post is meant to be an informative guide to inpatient medical coding, what a typical coder’s job duties consist of and the work schedule they follow.
Medical Codes Used
Inpatient medical coders use three main systems of medical codes. These are the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) and Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS).
However, inpatient medical coders primarily use ICD codes while outpatient coders rely heavily on CPT codes. In addition, being familiar with Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) coding is important for inpatient coders to be able to perform their job duties.
Inpatient Medical Coder Job Duties
The day of an inpatient medical coder is fast-paced and requires them to constantly be on their toes. When we talk about their job responsibilities, the most important one includes reviewing electronic patient charts and assigning accurate medical diagnostic and procedural codes. To do this properly, medical coders often have to consult with physicians and nurses.
Work Environment
Working in an inpatient healthcare facility like a hospital requires medical coders to function in an office environment, full-time or even part-time.
There isn’t necessarily much direct patient interaction, but sometimes inpatient medical coders have to communicate with them as well as with doctors, nurses and hospital staff. It’s possible that you may even be responsible for clerical duties and office tasks.
Although certification isn’t an educational requirement, many employers including hospitals, prefer applicants that have earned accredited certifications and have a few years of experience. One of the most reputed certifications includes that from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Become A Certified Medical Coder
The AAPC certification exam may be tough to pass and this is where medical technical schools like Allied Prep Technical Institute come in. We offer rigorous medical coding and medical billing certification and training programs in an on-campus and online setting.
Call us at 504-577-2066 to learn more about our services.