Launch Your Career as a Medical Records Technician with the Indian Health Service
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for healthcare data? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a motivated Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) to join our team at the Shiprock Service Unit in New Mexico. This position is a cornerstone of our facility's ability to provide high-quality care, acting as the bridge between clinical documentation and effective hospital operations.
Job Responsibilities
As an Inpatient Coder, your primary responsibilities will include:
- Coding and Auditing: Reviewing inpatient records for accuracy in diagnostic and procedural coding.
- Quality Reporting: Ensuring all documentation supports correct Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) assignments and billing.
- Compliance: Conducting quality assurance reviews to ensure medical records meet regulatory standards.
- Education: Providing technical guidance to providers regarding clinical documentation requirements.
- Data Analysis: Analyzing coding trends and preparing Case Mix Index reports to support financial and operational integrity.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-8 level position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Federal Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen and pass a federal background investigation.
- Work Experience: Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Certification: Must obtain and maintain applicable coding certification (CCS, CCS-P, or CPC) within two years of appointment.
- Background Checks: Successful completion of e-Verify and financial suitability reviews.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $55,882 to $72,644 per year. In addition to base pay, federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package.
| Benefit Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Comprehensive options available through FEHB |
| Leave | Accrue annual and sick leave based on service years |
| Retirement | Participation in the FERS pension system |
| Incentives | Recruitment or relocation bonuses may be authorized |
Application Tips
- Prepare Your Resume: Ensure it highlights specific coding tasks and the number of hours worked per week.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the November 12, 2026, deadline. Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly.
- Assessments: Take the USA Hire assessment seriously; it is a critical component of the evaluation.
This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization while building a stable, rewarding career in federal healthcare. Apply today to bring your skills to the Shiprock Service Unit.
Why This Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) Job Matters
Transform healthcare data into patient-centered care at the Shiprock Service Unit—your career in medical coding starts here.
Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) to join our team in Shiprock, New Mexico. In this vital role, you will perform specialized inpatient medical coding and auditing, ensuring the accuracy of diagnostic and procedural documentation. Your work directly impacts data integrity, quality reporting, and reimbursement efficiency, helping us provide high-quality healthcare services to American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Requirements for Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a federal background investigation.
- Financial responsibility and good standing with creditors.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
- Ability to obtain and maintain medical coding certification within two years.
- Must possess a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
- Compliance with IHS immunization policies for healthcare workers.
Preferred Qualifications for Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder)
- Certification through AHIMA (CCS or CCS-P).
- Certification through AAPC (CPC).
- Proven track record in inpatient coding and clinical documentation auditing.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Competitive salary range with potential for step increases.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
💡 How to Apply Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Medical Records Technician (Inpatient Coder) Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account and create a profile.
- Carefully review the entire vacancy announcement.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete the questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including your resume and eligibility proof.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of November 12, 2026.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if notified via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists the hours worked per week for each position.
- Double-check that all required documents, including DD214 or BIA-4432, are attached before submitting.
- Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment in one session if possible.
- Monitor your email for status updates and assessment links.
- Be precise in your responses and avoid exaggerating your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
The role focuses on accurate inpatient medical coding, clinical documentation auditing, and ensuring compliance with healthcare data and billing standards.
Is certification mandatory?
You are not required to have it upon hiring, but you must obtain and maintain a relevant coding certification within two years of your appointment.
What documentation is needed for Indian Preference?
You must submit a signed and dated Form BIA-4432 with your application, verified by an authorized Tribal Representative or BIA Official.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for qualified candidates.
What is the work environment like?
You will work in a patient care setting which may involve exposure to standard office risks and hospital environments.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. We are a dynamic, nationwide organization dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our employees are known for their creativity, compassion, and professional excellence. By joining the IHS, you become part of an interdisciplinary team focused on problem-solving and community health improvements.