Team Lead - Same Day Surgery (SDS)

The Team Lead – Same Day Surgery (SDS) Coding is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the SDS coding team, ensuring accurate and compliant coding, driving productivity and quality performance, and supporting the development of coding staff. This role serves as the primary point of contact for escalations, workflow management, performance coaching, and client-related requirements while maintaining adherence to coding guidelines, regulatory standards, and organizational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead and manage a team of Same Day Surgery (SDS) Medical Coders to achieve productivity, quality, and service-level targets.
• Monitor daily workload distribution and ensure timely completion of coding assignments.
• Manage staffing requirements, scheduling, and resource allocation to support operational needs.
• Address coding-related escalations and provide guidance on complex cases.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, HCPCS, and official coding guidelines.
• Review coding accuracy and identify trends impacting quality performance.
• Conduct audits and provide feedback to coders to improve coding accuracy and compliance.
• Support implementation of coding updates, regulatory changes, and client-specific requirements.
• Maintain adherence to HIPAA and data privacy regulations.

Performance Management

• Monitor individual and team performance against established KPIs.
• Conduct regular coaching sessions, performance reviews, and development discussions.
• Create action plans for team members requiring performance improvement.
• Recognize and reward high-performing employees to promote engagement and retention.

Training & Development

• Facilitate onboarding and training for new hires.
• Identify knowledge gaps and coordinate refresher training sessions.
• Mentor team members and support career development initiatives.
• Partner with Quality and Training teams to drive continuous learning programs.

Reporting & Stakeholder Management

• Prepare and present operational reports, productivity metrics, quality scores, and performance updates.
• Analyze trends and recommend process improvements to enhance team performance.
• Participate in client meetings and provide operational updates as needed.
• Support leadership initiatives and special projects.

Qualifications

• Certified Medical Coder (CPC, CCS, CCS-P, CIC, RHIT, RHIA, or equivalent).
• Minimum of 3–5 years of medical coding experience, with significant experience in Same Day Surgery (SDS) coding.
• At least 1–2 years of leadership, supervisory, mentoring, or team lead experience in a healthcare revenue cycle environment.
• Strong knowledge of outpatient surgery coding guidelines, reimbursement methodologies, and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with coding audits, quality reviews, and performance management.
• Proficient in EMR/EHR systems and coding software applications.
• Advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and stakeholder management skills.