Lead Coding Specialist

Job description

A Lead HIM Coder assists in managing the coding team by educating staff and monitoring all coding functions and w ork queues. They audit records to improve the accuracy and quality of coding and charging within the team. Serves as a liaison with CDI and physicians to enhance documentation, optimize reimbursement, and support efficient AR performance.
Principal Accountabilities:
• Manages multiple EPIC work queues (WQs) to ensure timely billing and resolution of all encounters within 2–3 days.
• Monitors and audits coder performance, ensuring >/= 95% coding and DRG accuracy through regular reviews, meetings, and feedback sessions.
• Educates and mentors coding staff, providing onboarding for new coders, daily coaching, and monthly team meetings to maintain accuracy and compliance.
• Acts as a liaison between the Coding Division, CDI Program, physicians, and Revenue Integrity to improve documentation, query processes, and charge accuracy.
• Conducts daily coding audits and reviews all PSI, Vizient, and 3M data to validate coding accuracy, case quality, and performance metrics.
• Oversees the DRG validation and denial management program, resolving coding disputes and ensuring documentation supports accurate reimbursement.
• Applies national coding standards and metrics, maintaining expertise in SOI/ROM, AHRQ PSI criteria, NTAP cases, and Medicare reimbursement systems.
• Stays current on industry updates, including Medicare PPS changes, Coding Clinic guidance, and emerging trends such as SDOH and C OVID-related coding.
• Drives process improvement initiatives, collaborating with CDI, Quality, and ER leaders to enhance documentation, reduce denials, and improve national quality ratings.
• Performs coding duties as needed, supporting workload balance, reducing discharged-not-billed (DNB) cases, and meeting monthly performance goals

Required:
• High School Diploma or equivalent and Medical Coding Education
• Certified Coding Specialist - CCS
• Five (5) years progressive coding experience.

Preferred:
• Associate or bachelor's degree in a healthcare related field.
• More than Seven (7) years of coding experience in an academic medical center.
• Physician-Based (CCS-P) or a Certified Coding Associate (CCA) preferred.