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About

My name is Melissa McLawhorn

I have been in the medical universe since 2004. I am a certified coder and I have an expansive knowledge of coding guidelines and Medicare regulations. 

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My diverse educational background, extensive work history, and numerous certifications reflect my dedication to excellence in healthcare administration and IT systems analysis. I am committed to continuous learning and professional growth, which drives my efforts to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.

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Work History

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My career has been characterized by progressive responsibilities and a commitment to improving healthcare systems. I began my professional journey as a Head Waitress at Andy’s in Mount Olive, NC, from 1999 to 2001. This role taught me valuable customer service and team management skills. Following this, I worked as a Lead Graphic Designer at Mount Olive Copy & Print until 2004, where I honed my design and project management abilities.

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Transitioning into the healthcare field, I served as a Surgery Scheduler at Eastern Carolina Surgical Associates in Goldsboro, NC, from 2004 to 2007. This position involved coordinating surgical schedules and managing patient information, which was my first foray into healthcare administration. I then joined the UNC OB-GYN Clinic as a Patient Business Associate, a role I held until 2008, where I managed patient appointments and billing processes.

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In 2008, I became an Administrative Support Supervisor at the UNCH Wound Endovascular & Vascular Interventional Radiology Clinics, where I oversaw administrative functions and supported clinical operations. My responsibilities included managing schedules, coordinating with clinical staff, and ensuring efficient clinic operations. This role allowed me to develop strong leadership and organizational skills.

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From 2012 to 2017, I worked as a Charge Integrity Analyst in Revenue Management at UNC Hospitals. In this role, I analyzed electronic data files to ensure accurate billing and conducted workshops on charge reconciliation, medical terminology, coding, and insurance. I also developed policies and procedures for charge posting and reconciliation, contributing to the hospital’s revenue integrity.

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I was then promoted to HCS Manager Charge Master at UNC Health, a position I held from 2017 to 2023. In this capacity, I managed the Charge Description Master (CDM), ensuring compliance with federal billing and coding guidelines. I was instrumental in Epic System Implementations and conducted charge reconciliation workshops, among other responsibilities. My efforts significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of the hospital’s billing processes.

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Currently, I serve as an HCS ISD Applications System Analyst Senior at UNC Health. In this role, I act as a liaison between the business community and IT, delivering technical solutions and driving process automation. I analyze user requirements, document business processes, and collaborate with IT support to enhance system functionality and customer service. My work ensures that technology implementations align with departmental practices and workflow efficiency, ultimately supporting the organization’s goals.

Education

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My educational journey began at Mount Olive College, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communications in 2000. This foundational education in visual communications provided me with critical skills in design and communication, which have been beneficial throughout my diverse career. Recognizing the importance of healthcare administration and policy, I pursued a Medical Office Insurance Billing and Coding Certification from Wayne Community College in 2006. This certification equipped me with essential knowledge in medical billing and coding, laying the groundwork for my future roles in healthcare administration.

 

To further enhance my expertise, I completed a Master’s Certification in Public Health Leadership from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill between 2012 and 2014. This program deepened my understanding of public health systems and leadership strategies, enabling me to take on more complex responsibilities within the healthcare sector. Currently, I am advancing my education with a Master’s of Business Administration at the University of the People, which I anticipate completing in 2024. This MBA program is broadening my business acumen and preparing me for senior leadership roles.

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Certification History

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Throughout my career, I have earned several certifications that have bolstered my expertise and credibility in the healthcare field. Since 2014, I have been Epic Certified in Resolute Hospital Billing Charging Administration, including a knowledge badge in Hospital Billing Revenue Integrity Post-Live Reporting. This certification has been crucial in managing hospital billing processes and implementing Epic Systems.

I am also a Certified Outpatient Coder, previously known as a Certified Hospital Coder, with membership in the AAPC since 2015. This certification validates my proficiency in medical coding, which is essential for ensuring accurate billing and compliance with healthcare regulations.

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Furthermore, I am a member of the National Association of Healthcare Revenue Integrity (NAHRI) since 2020, where I have served on the Leadership Council. This membership allows me to stay updated on best practices and emerging trends in healthcare revenue integrity, ensuring that I can apply the latest knowledge to my work.

Additionally, I have been a member of the North Carolina Moose Association since 2007, where I currently serve as the PowerPoint Chairperson. My involvement in this association demonstrates my commitment to community service and leadership outside of my professional responsibilities.

Let’s Work Together

Get in touch so we can start working together.

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