Clinical coder apprenticeship

Translate medical information from patient records in hospitals into alphanumeric codes

Clinical coding is the process of translating medical information from patient records in hospitals, into alphanumeric codes. During the clinical coder apprenticeship, you’ll spend time reading medical notes and records and analysing the contents, which they then translate into alphanumeric codes that accurately represent the patient’s stay. You’ll locate missing information by whatever process necessary, including contacting medical secretaries or by pulling case notes and requesting diagnoses from clinical staff where appropriate. You’ll input clinical codes onto patient administration systems, action outstanding clinical coding reports as required (including bringing them to the attention of team members, senior clinical coding colleagues and managers when necessary), as well as dealing with any queries or taking messages for the staff within the clinical coding department, including data quality issues.

Duration: 18 months

Relevant school subjects: Science and maths

Entry requirements for the clinical coder apprenticeship: Depend on employer

Achievement upon completion: Level 3 (Advanced)—equivalent to A-levels

Potential salary upon completion: £22,800 per annum

Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk