Trainee Clinical Coder

Overview

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a Clinical Coder to join their active Coding department, which serves multiple sites including acute hospitals. The successful candidate will be stationed at either Cobalt Business Park or Wansbeck General Hospital, with possible assignments to other acute hospital locations within the Trust.

Positions and Training

Applicants without prior experience will join as Trainee Clinical Coders at Band 3 and are expected to commit to comprehensive training aimed at obtaining the National Clinical Coding Qualification (NCCQ). This trainee track requires on-site presence for at least 18 months to ensure effective mentoring and development.

Experienced candidates may start at Band 4 (Senior Clinical Coder) or Band 5 (Clinical Coding Specialist), reflecting their expertise. For these roles, hybrid or fully remote working arrangements are available if the candidate demonstrates the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurately assign clinical codes representing patients' diagnoses and procedures using ICD-10 and OPCS-4 classification systems.
• Analyze complex clinical documentation such as electronic discharge summaries, nursing notes, diagnostic tests, and imaging to extract relevant data for coding.
• Ensure clinical code assignments support multiple healthcare functions including audits, governance, outcome measurement, research, epidemiology, and casemix planning.
• Maintain high standards of coding accuracy and consistency as these data play a vital role in hospital and service management within the NHS.

Working Environment and Organizational Context

The Trust oversees healthcare services from multiple hospitals and community clinics spanning a significant geographic area from Tynemouth to Berwick on Tweed. It is recognized for innovation and quality, including operating the state-of-the-art Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital, a first in England.

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust emphasizes staff support and experience, aiming to provide an excellent working environment. The geographical region offers clean air, affordable living, vibrant nightlife, top schools, and rich historical surroundings.

Additional Information

Applicants should review the specific job descriptions for Band 3, Band 4, and Band 5 roles for detailed eligibility and essential requirements.

For further inquiries or informal discussions, contact Roz McAuley, Clinical Coding Service Manager, at 01670 529477 or via email.