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UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Specification for Class

CODING SPECIALIST LEAD

UW CODE AND REPRESENTATIVE GROUP

18214 Coding Specialist Lead (NE S SEIU 925 Non Supv)
21214 Coding Specialist Lead (NE H SEIU 925 Non Supv)

BASIC FUNCTION

Lead Coding Specialists and perform coding functions; serve as expert resource to other departments and services in the areas of current coding, billing and regulatory guidelines.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Under delegated authority, regularly assign, instruct and check the work of Coding Specialists. Assist in the direction of the work flow of coding staff and the coordination of specialized division and/or Coding team activities. Ensure successful day to day operations of the department.

TYPICAL WORK

Analyze and monitor clinical documentation to assure the appropriate assignment of International Classifications of Diseases (ICD), Current Procedural Terminology (CPT), Healthcare Common Procedure Coding Systems (HCPCS) and/or Diagnostic Related Group (DRG) codes to insure data integrity and optimal reimbursement;

Review available electronic and other appropriate documentation to identify all billable procedures and services requiring facility and/or professional fee coding, ensuring all necessary codes use the appropriate ICD, CPT and/or HCPCS code. Ensure coded services, charges and clinical documentation meet appropriate guidelines or standards;

Lead assigned staff in the performance of daily coding functions; send daily staff and leadership emails to communication current coding volumes and high dollar status;

Prepare daily departmental productivity reports;

Assist in identifying performance deficiencies; assist in evaluating staff performance and participate in recommending training opportunities;

Respond to inquiries regarding coding questions or concerns;

Assist in the development and implementation of policies, procedures, departmental job aides and internal coding manuals;

Monitor and report system performance issues;

Facilitate effective communication between internal and external customers;

May provide leadership in committee and/or meeting functions;

Assist in interviewing of new staff;

Assist with development and training of staff;

May perform special projects;

Perform related duties, as required;

May perform the work of lower level classifications of the Coding Specialist series.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent

AND

Certified as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), Certified Coding Specialist – Physician Based (CCS-P), Certified Professional Coder (CPC), Certified Inpatient Coder (CIC), Certified Outpatient Coder (COC), Certified Interventional Radiology Cardiovascular Coder (CIRCC), Radiology Certified Coder (RCC) or Radiation Oncology Certified Coder (ROCC).

AND

Three years coding experience or equivalent education/experience.

CLASSIFICATION HISTORY

New Classification: Coding Specialist series effective 09-01-2017 as agreed to with SEIU 925. New series incorporates the work previously performed in the Clinical Data Specialist series.