The client is looking at hiring a IP-DRG - Manager – Medical Coding for their team at Hyderabad.
The IP-DRG Manager will oversee the inpatient coding team to ensure accurate, compliant, and timely assignment of ICD-10-CM / PCS codes and DRG grouping for EPIC and client projects. This role requires strong expertise in inpatient coding, DRG validation, compliance standards, clinical documentation review, and team management. The Manager will collaborate with cross-functional departments, including CDI, Quality, Operations, and EPIC implementation teams, to maintain high performance, quality accuracy, and client satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities :
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, mentor, and oversee a team of inpatient DRG coders and Team Leads to meet accuracy, productivity, and turnaround KPIs.
- Provide performance feedback, coaching, and conduct regular audits to ensure coding compliance.
- Facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions, problem-solving discussions, and continuous skill development within the team.
- Manage workflow distribution, leave planning, and resource allocation based on client demands.
Coding & DRG Validation Expertise
Perform complex inpatient coding and DRG validation using ICD-10-CM / PCS guidelines, UHDDS, CMS regulations, and organizational policies.Review provider documentation to ensure accurate code assignment and DRG optimization without compromising compliance.Validate CC / MCC capture, POA indicators, and clinical indicators supporting code selection.Support coding escalations and serve as SME for inpatient DRG-related queries.Client Management
Work closely with clients to understand workflow expectations, reporting needs, and project requirements.Monitor EPIC work queues (WQs), coding dashboards, documentation issues, and productivity trackers.Support upgrades, template changes, system issues, and new provider onboarding.Coordinate with client-side HIM leaders to resolve coding discrepancies and enhance documentation quality.Quality & Compliance
Ensure adherence to coding guidelines from CMS, AHA Coding Clinic, UHDDS, and internal compliance standards.Conduct internal quality checks and support external audits by identifying error trends and implementing corrective actions.Collaborate with CDI teams on query opportunities, DRG shifts, and clinical documentation gaps.Reporting & Analytics
Prepare daily / weekly / monthly productivity, quality, and audit reports for leadership and clients.Track DRG trends, coding denials, and process improvements to optimize team performance.Recommend workflow enhancements to improve accuracy rates, reduce backlogs, and strengthen operational efficiency.Required Qualifications
Minimum 10 years of experience in inpatient medical coding with strong expertise in all specialties of Inpatient codingAt least 4 years of DRG validation or auditing experience preferred.Hands-on experience working with EPIC EHR, including WQs and inpatient facility workflows.Recognized coding certifications CCS or CIC.Strong knowledge of MS-DRG, APR-DRG methodologies, reimbursement systems, and compliance regulations.In-depth understanding of clinical documentation, pharmacology, anatomy, and pathophysiology.Preferred Skills
Experience leading or supervising a coding team.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.Strong communication skills for client interaction and internal coordination.Proficiency in 3M Encoder, Solventum tools, EPIC coding modules, and audit platforms.Ability to train and mentor coders on coding best practices and regulatory changes.Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment supporting multiple EPIC and Non-EPIC client accounts.Flexible to support shifts based on client requirements.