Preparation for a Software Engineer role at Franciscan Health requires a blend of technical mastery and a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape. You should approach your preparation by connecting your technical skills to the mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care.

Domain Expertise – This refers to your deep knowledge of medical coding, diagnostic classification systems, and compliance requirements. You will be evaluated on your ability to apply these rules accurately under pressure. Demonstrate this by citing specific examples of complex cases you have handled.

Analytical Rigor – We look for candidates who can systematically break down complex documentation to identify the correct code. Your interviewers will assess how you validate your findings and ensure consistency. Be prepared to explain your logic clearly and concisely.

Interpersonal Communication – Even in technical roles, you must communicate effectively with non-technical stakeholders, including physicians and administrative staff. You should demonstrate an ability to translate technical requirements into actionable insights while maintaining professional, collaborative relationships.

The interview process at Franciscan Health is designed to be thorough and reflective of the rigorous standards we maintain. You can expect a structured journey that begins with an initial screening to gauge your alignment with the role, followed by deeper technical discussions that test your practical application of coding knowledge.

Our philosophy centers on finding candidates who are not only technically proficient but also deeply committed to the values of Franciscan Health. We prioritize candidates who show a high level of accuracy, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a clear desire to contribute to our patient-centered mission.

The visual timeline above outlines the typical progression from your initial application to the final evaluation stages. Use this as a map to manage your energy and preparation; treat the technical assessments as opportunities to showcase your attention to detail, and the behavioral interviews as a chance to demonstrate your alignment with our culture.

Technical Accuracy and Compliance

This is the cornerstone of the role. We evaluate your ability to adhere to strict coding guidelines and maintain compliance with federal and state regulations.

Be ready to go over:

• Inpatient coding standards – Understanding the nuances of DRG assignment.
• HCC (Hierarchical Condition Category) coding – Identifying how chronic conditions impact patient risk profiles.
• Regulatory compliance – Staying current with OIG and CMS requirements.

Example questions or scenarios:

• "How do you handle a scenario where the medical record lacks sufficient documentation to support a code?"
• "Walk me through how you validate a code for a patient with multiple comorbidities."

As a Software Engineer in this capacity, your primary responsibility is to ensure the integrity of clinical data. You will spend your day auditing medical records, applying appropriate coding classifications, and collaborating with clinical departments to ensure documentation accurately reflects the care provided.

You will also be responsible for maintaining high levels of productivity while ensuring that the quality of your output never wavers. You will frequently interact with healthcare providers to resolve documentation gaps, acting as a bridge between the clinical team and our administrative reporting systems. Your work directly influences the accuracy of our hospital's quality metrics and financial health.

A successful candidate for this role possesses a strong foundation in medical coding and a keen eye for detail. We look for individuals who can hit the ground running and adapt to our internal systems with minimal friction.

• Must-have skills:
  • Valid certification (e.g., CCS, CPC, or equivalent).
  • Proficiency in ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding.
  • Strong understanding of medical terminology and anatomy.
• Nice-to-have skills:
  • Experience with electronic health record software.
  • Previous experience in a large hospital or multi-site physician practice.
  • Ability to mentor junior staff or participate in quality improvement initiatives.

Q: How long is the typical interview process? A: Candidates generally move through the process within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the volume of applicants and internal scheduling.

Q: What differentiates successful candidates? A: The most successful candidates are those who demonstrate a perfect balance between technical accuracy and the ability to communicate respectfully with physicians.

Q: Is there a remote work component? A: Many coding roles at Franciscan Health offer hybrid flexibility, but this varies by location and specific department needs. Be sure to clarify the expectations during your initial screen.

Q: How should I handle an ambiguous documentation scenario during the interview? A: We value critical thinking over blind rule-following; explain your process for seeking clarification rather than guessing or making assumptions.

• Structure your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your behavioral responses focused and impactful.
• Know the mission: Research Franciscan Health’s core values; we look for candidates who integrate those values into their professional conduct.
• Ask thoughtful questions: Prepare 2–3 questions about the team’s current coding challenges or the department’s goals for the coming year.
• Be ready for technical testing: Expect a short assessment or a case study review to verify your coding speed and accuracy.

The Software Engineer (Coding) position at Franciscan Health is a vital role that requires both precision and a passion for healthcare excellence. By focusing your preparation on technical accuracy, clinical documentation nuances, and clear communication, you will be well-positioned to succeed in your interviews.

We encourage you to review your certification materials and practice articulating your process for handling complex coding scenarios. You have the skills to make a significant impact here, and with focused preparation, you can confidently demonstrate your value to our hiring team. We look forward to seeing your application and wish you the best in your interview journey.

The salary data provided reflects the compensation range for these roles at Franciscan Health. Use this as a baseline to understand the market positioning of the role in Mishawaka, IN, and to help you frame your expectations during the negotiation stage of the hiring process.