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In my facility, auditors/educators, whose job it is to do internal documentation reviews and assist the providers with areas of opportunity, do make a slightly higher salary than do staff coders. This is because there is a real skill set in 'teaching' physicians. They earn their salary, believe me.
However, our staff coders are expected to 'audit' the E&M, surgical and diagnostic procedures to insure that the correct CPT and diagnosis code is being selected prior to claim drop. The difference for them is that they don't necessarily provide one-on-one provider instruction and feedback.
The AAPC does a salary survey each year. You might bring that to your employer as a suggestion as to what your job might be worth, particularly if they are asking for additional responsiblity to be added to your job description. I know that coder salaries vary by geographical area, but it doesn't hurt to point out what the average salary is (particularly if it is more than you currently earn). Maybe it's time for a market adjustment.
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Pam Brooks, CPC, CPC-H, PCS
Physician Services Coding Supervisor
Wentworth-Douglass Hospital
Dover, NH 03820
I realize this was sent back in 2007 however I am wondering if there is any information regarding salaries of a Professional Coding and Audit Coordinator.