Certified Professional CoderJob Location: Hopewell, NJJob Duration: 6 Months (possibility of extension)Payrate: $35 - $38/ hr. on w2Job Summary: This position is responsible for leading on-site and desk audits of hospital billing and coding practices, including forms development, audit profiling, and tracking institutional audit trends. The role involves designing audit protocols, handling special projects, and performing/finalizing per diem audits, bill verification, DRG validation (utilization review audits), and credit balance reviews. The position also provides education and guidance on ICD-10-CM coding, DRG assignment, payment methodologies, and auditing practices.Key Responsibilities:Lead hospital billing and coding audits, both on-site and remoteIdentify and present billing discrepancies and coordinate improper claim payment referralsAnalyze trends related to documentation, billing errors, and provider contract interpretation issuesCompile audit reports, statistics, and findings for internal teams and regulatory agenciesReview and enhance audit processes to align with clinical review innovations and cost-containment initiativesTrain and mentor new staff on departmental audit proceduresEnsure compliance with healthcare laws, regulations, and company policiesSupport special projects and additional assignments as requested by managementEducation & Experience:High School Diploma/GED requiredBachelor's Degree in Health Information Management preferred or equivalent relevant experienceMinimum 3 years of experience in a medical records department within an acute care hospital or healthcare settingExperience with DRG validation, ICD-10-CM training, and healthcare auditing requiredRequired Certifications & Licensure:Active RN License requiredCCS or RHIT/RHIA Certification requiredPreferred Certifications:CCSCCS-PCCAPreferred Knowledge:Experience with ACCESS Software preferred.