Clinical Coder
Job Purpose:
The Clinical Coding Team translates inpatient information using ICD-10 and OPCS-4 classifications in line with national coding standards. This coded data is vital for organisational income through the National Tariff Payment System and supports clinical audit, governance, and research.
As an Accredited Clinical Coder (ACC), you will analyse complex clinical information from electronic and paper records to assign accurate codes. Your work directly supports mandatory reporting at both local and national levels. The role requires regular interaction with clinicians and operational staff, with responsibility for managing your own workload while maintaining high coding quality.
Job Type: Locum
Proposed start date: ASAP
Pay Rates: £18-£20 per hour PAYE inclusive of holiday pay
Hours / Working Days: Monday-Friday 9am-5.30-pm
Sector: Healthcare
Working Arrangement: Office / Hospital
Overview of Essential Responsibilities
- Extract and code primary and secondary diagnoses and procedures using ICD-10 & OPCS-4
- Handle complex coding areas, including deceased patients, and liaise with clinicians for clarification
- Maintain high coding quality and productivity standards
- Communicate coding decisions clearly to medical and administrative staff
- Support team members, answer coding queries, and share specialist knowledge
- Manage own workload, meet monthly deadlines, and assist during absences or peak periods
- Monitor and resolve coding backlogs and retrieve records as required
- Use patient systems and clinical platforms to verify and complete coding
- Ensure data accuracy in the patient administration system and correct discrepancies
- Stay updated on national coding standards through training and refresher courses
- Respond to data queries and support information services and FOI requests
Skills, Abilities and Knowledge
- Accredited Clinical Coder (NCCQ) with up-to-date refresher training
- Degree or equivalent experience in acute hospital coding across multiple specialties
- Strong understanding of ICD-10, OPCS-4, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology
- Proven experience using electronic and paper records and coding systems
- Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills
- Strong IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and relevant systems
- Knowledge of information governance and data confidentiality
- Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and mentor trainee coders
- Willingness to adapt to changing service demands
- Commitment to professional development and teamwork