The Medical Coding – Surgery Specialty position at Optum in Chennai is a role that requires precise and detailed coding of medical records, focusing on surgery. Below is an overview of the role, qualifications required, and some tips on how to position yourself effectively for this job:
Key Responsibilities:
- Data Verification and Abstraction: Accurately verify and abstract relevant data from medical records to assign the correct codes for various settings including multispecialty outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and inpatient hospital settings.
- Coding: Efficiently code 12 charts per hour while adhering to quality standards. This requires a deep understanding of medical coding practices and the ability to maintain accuracy under pressure.
- Guideline Updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest coding guidelines from the AMA, AHA, and CMS, and implement these updates in your work.
- Work Organization: Prioritize tasks effectively to ensure compliance with regulatory and client guidelines, and manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
- Confidentiality and Compliance: Strictly adhere to confidentiality protocols, including HIPAA policies, and maintain the security of patient records.
Required Qualifications:
- Educational Background: Candidates must have a degree in Life Sciences or Allied Medicine.
- Certification: Certification from either the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) or AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) is required.
- Experience: 0.6 to 2 years of experience in surgery medical coding is necessary.
- Knowledge: Proficient understanding of medical terminology, human anatomy, and physiology.
- Coding Proficiency: Knowledge of ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS coding guidelines is crucial.
How to Position Yourself:
- Highlight Your Certification: Clearly indicate your certification from AAPC or AHIMA on your resume. This is a key requirement for the role.
- Emphasize Relevant Experience: Even if you have limited experience, highlight any work related to surgery coding. Detail the types of medical records you’ve worked on, and your familiarity with the coding guidelines required for this job.
- Showcase Your Knowledge: If you have additional knowledge in medical terminology, anatomy, or specific coding systems (like ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS), make sure to mention this prominently in your application. If you’ve undertaken any courses or training sessions to stay current with coding updates, include this as well.
- Attention to Detail and Efficiency: Highlight your ability to manage a high volume of work with accuracy. Mention any experiences where you had to meet strict deadlines or manage confidential information.
- Adherence to Guidelines: Demonstrate your understanding of regulatory compliance and confidentiality requirements, such as HIPAA. If you’ve worked in environments where these were critical, be sure to mention it.
- Adaptability and Continuous Learning: Show your eagerness to stay updated with the latest guidelines and your commitment to continuous improvement in your coding skills.
About Optum:
Optum is a global organization dedicated to improving healthcare through technology and innovative solutions. The company emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and career development, making it a supportive environment for professional growth.
Next Steps:
- Prepare Your Application: Ensure your resume is tailored to highlight the qualifications and experience relevant to this role.
- Submit Your Application: Apply through the appropriate channels provided by Optum, whether as an external candidate or an internal employee.
- Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your coding experience, your approach to maintaining accuracy and efficiency, and your understanding of the importance of compliance and confidentiality in medical coding.
