About this role
Job SummaryThis position is under the HIM Department of the Phoenix Indian Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The incumbent serves as the Lead Medical Records Technician (Coder) performing a full range of coding, assigning ICD-10-CM, CPT/HCPCS codes; abstracting records; chart analysis; peer review. Incumbent will report directly to the Supervisory Health System Specialist (Coding Supervisor). A REAL ID will be required beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021).
QualificationsTo 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. GS-09 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: Assign and sequence medical codes for diagnoses, procedures, and services; review and assign accurate current procedural terminology codes; analyze medical documentation to ensure the appropriate evaluation and management levels are being assigned; apply ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS codes to visits; assign correct codes in reimbursements and medical records; correct coding irregularities in third-party claims, denials, and coding changes; and identify and correct errors. SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR: Incumbent must possess Certification by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), or Certified Coding Associate (CCA); or by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) as a Certified Professional Coder (CPC); and must demonstrate proficiency in these necessary skills in assigning and sequencing ICD-9-CM (ICD-10-CM)/CPT/HCPCS codes to medical data and procedures. 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). You must meet all qualification requirements within 30 days of the closing date of the announcement.
Major DutiesTotal Compensation Package - Check out IHS's outstanding total compensation package for this job: Medical Records Technician Total Compensation | Pay (ihs.gov) Distributes and balances the workload among employees in accordance with established work flow or job specialization, assures timely accomplishment of the assigned workload, and assures that each employee has enough work to keep busy. Assigns the appropriate ICD-10 codes for all diagnoses and surgical procedures as required and documented by the provider for outpatient visits. Assures that diagnoses are sequenced appropriately. The incumbent works with computerized information systems including an electronic health record, encoding software, the Internet and other software applications. Has the ability to research coding issues and follow official guidelines for coding selection and third party regulations. Abstracts and enters all data for coding, billing and GPRA indicators and CMS, JCAHO and governmental reporting purposes. Abstracts and enters all data into a computer system for statistical purposes, third party billing and continuity of patient care. Assist and educate physicians and other clinicians in proper documentation practices, further specificity, sequencing or inclusion of diagnoses or procedures to more accurately reflect the acuity, severity and the occurrence of events.RequirementsSelectee may be subject to a probationary period ESEP appointees typically serve a two year trial period U.S. Citizenship is required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101-630, requiring contact or control over Indian children. Due to this requirement, the agency must ensure that persons hired for these positions have not been found guilty of or pleaded nolo contendere or guilty to certain crimes. Confidential Financial Disclosure Form required. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/. You will need to set up direct deposit so we can pay you. Background Investigation Requirement: This position requires the successful completion of a federal background investigation as a condition of employment. A background investigation is a standard process used by the Federal Government to verify an individual's identity, employment history, education, and other relevant information to determine suitability for Federal service. Upon receipt of instructions, applicants must complete all required background investigation forms within five (5) calendar days of issuance. Timely completion is critical to avoid delays in processing or a determination of unsuitability. Applicants are strongly encouraged to prioritize this requirement and to maintain regular communication with their assigned Personnel Security Specialist throughout the process. Financial Suitability Requirement: This position requires a review of the applicant's financial history as part of the personnel security and suitability determination. Applicants must demonstrate financial responsibility, maintain good standing with creditors, and satisfy all legal financial obligations prior to applying. Individuals with substantial delinquent or unresolved financial obligations-including, but not limited to, delinquent federal or state tax liabilities, defaulted federal student loans, court-ordered fines or fees, or child support arrears-may be deemed unsuitable for employment with the Indian Health Service (IHS). Prior to the appointment, candidates must present two valid forms of identification. If one of the documents is a state-issued ID or driver's license, it must be REAL ID-compliant.