Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder)

Summary

This position is located within IHS at the Shiprock Service Unit, Medical Records, in Shiprock, NM. The primary purpose is to perform accurate inpatient and specialty medical coding in accordance with official guidelines, supporting compliant billing, quality reporting, reimbursement, documentation accuracy, and data integrity through coding reviews and analysis. A REAL ID will be required beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021).

Duties

Performs inpatient medical coding and auditing, reviewing records for completeness, accuracy, medical necessity, appropriate modifiers, evaluation and management levels, and correct diagnostic and procedural code assignment. Ensures diagnoses and procedures are accurately documented and sequenced to support appropriate diagnosis-related group assignment, billing, reimbursement, and quality reporting. Conducts quality reviews, identifies documentation deficiencies, initiates provider clarifications, and provides coding and documentation feedback to support compliance and data integrity. Reviews coding and documentation, identifies deficiencies, coordinates clarifications, and provides education to support compliance. Analyzes coding trends, prepares Case Mix Index reports, assists with audits, and supports accurate reimbursement. Total Compensation Package - Check out IHS's outstanding total compensation package for this job: Medical Records Technician Total Compensation | Pay (ihs.gov)

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, your resume must state sufficient experience and/or education, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are applying. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer and part time experience. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Your resume must demonstrate at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector performing the following type of work and/or tasks below: GS-08: Performing inpatient medical coding and auditing; interpreting extensive clinical medical documentation to determine accurate diagnoses, procedures, medical necessity, and code assignment; independently resolving coding and documentation discrepancies; initiating and tracking provider clarification requests; conducting comprehensive quality assurance reviews and compliance audits; analyzing coding, billing, and reimbursement data to identify trends and systemic deficiencies; and providing technical guidance and education to providers and staff regarding documentation, coding requirements, and regulatory standards. Preferred not required: Certification through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) as a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Coding Specialist-Physician-Based (CCS-P), or certification as a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), Condition of Employment: The incumbent must obtain and maintain the applicable certification within two (2) years of appointment, complete all required continuing education, and provide annual verification of certification. Time In Grade Federal employees in the competitive service are also subject to the Time-In-Grade Requirements: Merit Promotion (status) candidates must have completed one year of service at the next lower grade level. Time-In-Grade provisions do not apply under the Excepted Service Examining Plan (ESEP).

Education

There are no education requirements.