Certified Coding Specialist- AZ- Clinic Finance

Midwestern University is a distinguished private, not-for-profit educational institution dedicated to providing graduate and post-graduate education in the health sciences. With campuses located in Downers Grove, Illinois, and Glendale, Arizona, the university serves over 6,000 full-time students enrolled in a wide array of graduate programs covering osteopathic medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nurse anesthesia, cardiovascular perfusion, podiatry, optometry, clinical psychology, speech language pathology, biomedical sciences, and veterinary medicine. The institution employs more than 500 full-time faculty members and 400 staff, all committed to fostering an environment that promotes learning, respect for healthcare professionals, service, interdisciplinary scholarly activity, and personal growth. Midwestern University stands out for its comprehensive benefits package, commitment to diversity and equal opportunity, and dedication to the wellness and professional development of its community members.

The university is currently seeking a Certified Coding Specialist to join its Patient Accounts team. This pivotal role focuses on protecting and recovering patient reimbursement within the clinics by serving as an essential resource for coding and billing across all Midwestern University clinics. Reporting to the Assistant Manager of Patient Accounts, this position plays a crucial role in educating healthcare providers, monitoring accounts receivable, and managing delinquent collections effectively. The Certified Coding Specialist ensures that all coding practices adhere firmly to legal requirements, compliance standards, and official coding guidelines, thereby maximizing revenue and maintaining accurate financial records for the clinic.

Responsibilities for this role include reviewing coding from multiple specialties such as multispecialty clinics and the Eye Institute to verify compliance with coding rules, reviewing electronic health records to extract appropriate coding information, and participating in educational initiatives aimed at improving documentation, coding accuracy, and reimbursement processes. The specialist will also train finance staff on billing and coding procedures, participate in internal and external coding audits, and assist in the development of coding policies and procedures. Additionally, the specialist will ensure that all required documentation such as Advance Beneficiary Notices (ABNs), letters of medical necessity, and Medicare Wellness forms are properly prepared and maintained.

The ideal candidate for this role will have a high school diploma or GED with a preferred associate degree, along with 3 to 5 years of medical office coding experience. A Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is mandatory, paired with expert knowledge of ICD-10, CPT, HCPCS coding systems, modifiers, and medical terminology. Experience working with Medicare, Medicaid, and third-party payers is essential, along with a strong understanding of revenue cycles, charge master usage, and electronic or manual coding processes. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and excellent interpersonal skills are critical, as is proficiency in computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, along with medical practice management software. The role requires the ability to work independently, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and communicate effectively.

Midwestern University offers a workplace that values alertness, safety, and professionalism with expectations for physical activities that include sitting, talking, hearing, occasional standing and walking, and the ability to lift or move up to 25 pounds. The campus environment maintains a moderate noise level and provides a wellness facility with a fully equipped fitness center to support employee health and wellness. This role does not include supervisory responsibilities but offers the opportunity to be an integral part of a respected institution committed to exceptional healthcare education and operations. Midwestern University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer adhering to all federal, state, and local laws, including non-discrimination and equal pay laws. Embracing diversity and inclusive practices, the university encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.