Clinical Coder

Tasks & duties

Clinical coders may do some or all of the following: 

• code and process patient discharge records within a given time frame
• consult with clinical staff, such as doctors, to verify patient discharge records
• use coding software to enter and update patient discharge records
• keep up to date with health classification codes and coding software
• participate in health classification coding audits and activities such as the peer review of coding for accuracy, consistency and completeness
• answer public queries
• respond to or obtain information from the Ministry of Health on health classification coding related issues

Skills & knowledge

Clinical coders need to have:

• knowledge of health classification codes
• knowledge of medical terminology including anatomy and physiology
• computer skills including the ability to use databases
• time management skills including the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines
• analytical and problem-solving skills
• decision-making skills
• excellent communication skills
• good people skills
• the ability to keep information confidential

Entry requirements

To become a clinical coder you need to have a good knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology and/or have completed the Introductory ICD-10-AM Clinical Coding Course offered by the Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA) via distance learning.  

Secondary education

At least three years of secondary education is recommended. Useful subjects include English, physics, chemistry and biology.

Training on the job

Some hospitals employ only qualified clinical coders. Other hospitals provide on-the-job training. Clinical coders are expected to complete ongoing clinical coding training and education. This can include completing advanced courses through the Health Information Management Association of Australia, and attending regional training and education days.

Useful experience

Useful experience for clinical coders includes work in nursing, medicine, biological sciences or other health services. A health-related clerical background such as medical secretary/reception work is also helpful, as is prior completion of a recognised course in medical terminology.

Related courses

Public and Health Care Administration
Text Processing and Office Tools

For more information, please refer to Career Services.