Introduction
This examination is being given to fill one vacancy in the Behavioral Health Services department and to establish an eligible list to fill future vacancies. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application. A completed application must be postmarked or received online by the final filing deadline.
Pre-Employment Background
Pre-Employment Background: Potential new hires into this classification are required to successfully pass a pre‑employment background investigation as a condition of employment. Final appointment cannot be made unless the eligible has successfully completed the background process.
Typical Duties
Completes detailed analysis of medical records for chart content and documentation requirements.
Assigns diagnostic codes and abstracts patient medical record information according to the International Classification of Diseases 9th Edition (ICD‑9‑CM) and Current Procedure Terminology (CPT‑4).
Applies coding conventions and guidelines as established by state and federal reporting requirements.
Completes abstracting functions of inpatient, outpatient, and emergency records. Enters coded medical record data on computer terminal; selects diagnosis and operations codes from computer encoder and designated abstracting system.
Reviews medical records and verifies coding and Medicare Severity Diagnosis‑Related Groups (MS‑DRGs) assignments in response to billing requests.
Responds to authorized requests from agencies, administration and individuals regarding coding and DRG questions.
Maintains a working knowledge of current guidelines and regulations affecting code assignments through continuing education sessions and approved references.
Assists physicians with correspondence for legal and insurance information. Keeps records and prepares reports and correspondence as required.
May serve as a lead worker; may train staff.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience: One year of experience in an acute‑care hospital or health care facility with experience in medical coding or medical records.
Certification: Possession of a current Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) certificate issued by the American Health Information Management Association or Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certificate issued by the American Academy of Professional Coders.
Substitution: Current registration as a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) or Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certificate may be substituted for the CCS or CPC certificate.
Knowledge
Medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and study of disease processes; current knowledge of abstracting medical records according to ICD‑9‑CM classification systems and CPT‑4 coding guidelines; standards and regulations pertaining to the maintenance of patient medical records; medical records coding systems; health information systems for computer application to medical records.
Ability
Review medical record information, correctly assign codes to diagnosis and procedures; utilize the ICD‑9‑CM and CPT‑4 coding guidelines to code medical record entries; abstract information from medical records in accordance with defined regulations; read medical record notes and reports; assign accurate Medicare Severity Diagnostic Related Groups; operate computers, office equipment and related software; make independent decisions in procedural matters; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, physicians, and the general public; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
Physical/Mental Requirements
Mobility—frequent operation of a data entry device, repetitive motion, sitting and standing for long periods, walking; occasional pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, squatting, climbing. Lifting—frequently 5 pounds or less; occasionally 5 to 30 pounds. Visual—constant good overall vision and reading/close‑up work; frequent color perception and use of eye/hand coordination; occasional use of depth perception and peripheral vision. Hearing/Talking—frequent hearing of normal speech, hearing/talking on the telephone, talking in person. Emotional/Psychological—decision making; concentration; occasional exposure to trauma, grief and death. Special Requirements—some assignments may require working weekends, nights, and/or occasional overtime. Environmental—occasional exposure to varied weather conditions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
San Joaquin County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and is committed to providing equal employment to all without regard to age, ancestry, color, creed, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation or belief, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. For more information, visit www.sjgov.org/department/hr/eeo .
Benefits
Employees hired into this classification are members of a bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 1021. Health, dental and vision insurance plans are available. Life insurance, retirement plan, vacation, holidays and sick leave are provided under county policies. Detailed information on benefits can be found at www.sjgov.org/employeeBenefits .
Selection Plan
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will go through a written and oral examination process weighted according to the qualifications and experience required for the position. Candidates must score at least 70 % on each examined component to be placed on the eligible list.
How to Apply
Apply Online: www.sjgov.org/department/hr
By mail or in person:
San Joaquin County Human Resources
44 N. San Joaquin Street Suite 330
Stockton, CA 95202
Office hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm; excluding holidays.
Phone: (209) 468‑3370
Job Line: For current employment opportunities, call our 24‑hour job line at (209) 468‑3377.
When a final filing date is indicated, applications must be filed with the Human Resources Division before 5:00 p.m. or postmarked by the final filing date. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application. Applications sent through county inter‑office mail, which are not received by the final filing date, will not be accepted.
San Joaquin County Substance Abuse Policy
San Joaquin County has adopted a Substance Abuse Policy in compliance with the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988. This policy is enforced by all San Joaquin County Departments and applies to all San Joaquin County employees.
Contact and Assistance
For assistance in applying, contact San Joaquin County Human Resources at (209) 468‑3370 or via e‑mail at hr@sjgov.org .
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