The Essential Role of a Clinical Coding Assistant

The healthcare industry is a vast network of various roles, each playing a crucial part in ensuring the smooth operation of our healthcare system. Among these, the role of a Clinical Coding Assistant is paramount, often going unnoticed yet forming an essential backbone of hospital administration. In this article, we delve into the job profile of a Clinical Coding Assistant, exploring the primary duties, qualifications, skills, and experiences required for this pivotal role.

What Does a Clinical Coding Assistant Do?

Clinical Coding Assistants perform a vital role in the administrative function of healthcare institutions. They are primarily responsible for the collection, handling, and distribution of clinical case notes within the hospital.

Their work involves daily collection of case notes from wards and medical secretaries, as well as from medical records. They serve as a link between different medical departments, liaising with medical secretaries, ward personnel, departmental staff, and records clerks. Their role is crucial in assisting Clinical Coders to meet strict Clinical Coding deadlines.

Maintaining department procedures for case note tracking forms an integral part of their job. This ensures that all case notes are properly accounted for and can be easily accessed when needed.

The role of a Clinical Coding Assistant also involves maintaining confidentiality of all coded and other patient information, upholding the vital principle of patient privacy within the healthcare setting.

They may also be required to assist the Clinical Coding Administration Clerk as needed, further broadening their scope of work. Given the physical nature of the job, which involves lifting and distributing clinical case notes, the post requires a considerable amount of physical effort.

Qualifications and Skills

To become a Clinical Coding Assistant, you should have an education up to GCSE/GCE level or equivalent experience. It’s desirable to be trained in using a Patient Administration System (PAS).

In terms of skills, you need to have basic judgment skills to prioritise case note location. Given the physical nature of the role, you need to be able to handle and transport case notes throughout the hospital campus, including wards and other patient areas. You should also be able to work to strict deadlines.

Experience

Experience in general office duties and standard keyboard skills are essential for this role. The ability to organise and prioritise your own day-to-day work requirements is also critical.

Specific Job Requirements

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are key in this role, as you’ll be dealing with Trust staff at all levels. The ability to handle case notes with tact and diplomacy is also essential, given the sensitive nature of the information contained within them.

In conclusion, the role of a Clinical Coding Assistant is both challenging and rewarding. It is a vital cog in the healthcare administrative machinery, ensuring the smooth flow of information within the hospital. For those who are well-organised, physically active, and value the importance of confidentiality and efficient communication, it offers a fulfilling career path with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector.