Tracey Costello
Oak Lawn
Summary
Dedicated and detail-oriented Coding Specialist with over ten years of proven success in outpatient coding. Recognized for exceptional accuracy, efficiency, and time management skills, paired with a strong work ethic and collaborative spirit. Proficient in coding ED, GI, Ancillary, Dialysis, PT and Lab encounters, with comprehensive training in ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT, and HCPCS. Adept at leveraging industry tools and maintaining the highest ethical standards in coding practices.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Coder II
Valleywise Health Medical Center
08.2022 - Current
- Accurately assign CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS codes for outpatient services, ensuring compliance with CMS and payer-specific guidelines.
- Maintain an average coding accuracy rate of 98%, exceeding department benchmarks and minimizing claim rejections.
- Review patient records for completeness, clarity, and compliance prior to coding, collaborating with physicians for necessary documentation clarifications.
- Apply knowledge of NCCI edits, modifiers, and LCD/NCD guidelines to ensure correct coding and billing practices.
- Serve as a practicum mentor, guiding HIM students through accurate assignment ED charts, providing feedback on documentation and compliance standards.
- Keep coding expertise current through ongoing CEU completion, timely certification renewals, and actively monitor coding guideline and regulatory changes.
- Accurately review and resolve claim edits, updating codes and documentation to reduce denials and support prompt reimbursement.
Coding Specialist
Loyola University Health Systems – MacNeal Hospital
05.2015 - 08.2022
- Reviewed outpatient records and interpreted documentation to accurately identify diagnoses and procedures.
- Applied CPT, ICD-10-CM/PCS, procedural manuals, and online encoders to ensure accurate coding.
- Performed billing and coding for ambulance services, ED, GI, PT (recurring), and other outpatient visits.
Preschool Teaching Assistant
Children’s Farm and Nature Discovery Preschool
08.2006 - 06.2009
- Managed classrooms of 20 children, maintaining a structured, positive learning environment.
- Fostered physical, academic, and social development through diverse classroom and outdoor activities, including nature hikes and gardening.
- Built strong relationships with parents through consistent communication on progress and behavior.
Education
Certificate Program - Coding Specialist
Moraine Valley Community College
Palos Hills, IL08.2014
Certificate Program - CNA
Health Restoration Academy of Medical Arts
Oak Lawn, IL08.2010
Skills
- ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT, HCPCS
- 3M/CAC, EPIC, Online Encoders
- Medical Billing & Documentation Review
- Microsoft Word & Excel
- Deadline-Driven & Highly Organized
- Collaborative Team Player
- Knowledge of Microsoft Word/Excel
Certification
AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
Community Service
Camp Scholarship Committee – Children’s Farm, Troop Leader – Girl Scouts, President – Orca Swim Club
Timeline
Coder II
Valleywise Health Medical Center
08.2022 - Current
Coding Specialist
Loyola University Health Systems – MacNeal Hospital
05.2015 - 08.2022
Preschool Teaching Assistant
Children’s Farm and Nature Discovery Preschool
08.2006 - 06.2009
Certificate Program - CNA
Health Restoration Academy of Medical Arts
Certificate Program - Coding Specialist
Moraine Valley Community College
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