About the Role
The Senior Clinical Documentation Specialist (CDS) – Float Pool provides advanced, flexible CDI support across Ascension’s multi-market system. This role covers temporary staffing gaps while maintaining high standards of documentation review, compliance, and workflow continuity. The position requires adaptability to different hospital systems, service lines, EHRs (Epic, Cerner), and CDI platforms (3M, Iodine, Nuance) with minimal onboarding.
You will also support onboarding new CDS team members, participate in regional initiatives, and assist with CDI best practice implementation across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
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Perform high-quality concurrent and retrospective clinical documentation review.
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Float between inpatient units, service lines, and CDI teams based on organizational needs.
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Generate compliant queries to clarify missing or unclear documentation affecting coding, severity, quality, and reimbursement.
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Maintain senior-level productivity and quality standards.
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Rapidly adapt to local workflows, EHRs, and CDI software systems.
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Support staff onboarding, training, and short-term CDI education initiatives.
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Mentor new CDS team members during onboarding or low census periods.
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Communicate professionally and effectively across virtual and on-site environments.
Requirements
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Certification: Clinical Documentation Professional (CDI) credential from the Association of Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialists required.
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Education & Experience: High school diploma with 2 years experience OR Associate/Bachelor’s degree with 1 year experience OR 5 years of relevant experience; 2 years of leadership experience preferred.
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Advanced knowledge of clinical documentation, coding rules, DRG assignment, and CDI standards.
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Expertise in SOI/ROM capture, MCC/CC identification, mortality reviews, and quality indicators (PSI, HAC).
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Technological proficiency with multiple CDI tools, remote platforms, and secure communication methods.
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Exceptional adaptability, problem-solving, and time management skills.
Why Join Ascension
Ascension is a leading non-profit, faith-based health system with over 134,000 associates and 2,600 care sites across 19 states. We are dedicated to transforming healthcare and providing care to all, particularly those most in need. Employees enjoy career flexibility, opportunities for professional development, and a culture of community impact.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Ascension is an EEO employer, providing employment consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected status under applicable law. Military-friendly policies support veterans, reservists, and their families.