Coding Solutions at Harmony Healthcare: Jennifer Latva

Harmony Healthcare provides healthcare organizations with the talent and resources needed to succeed today as well as the foresight to prepare for tomorrow’s challenges. In this employee spotlight, we’re excited to highlight Jennifer Latva, QA Lead, Coding Solutions.

We spoke with Jennifer to share her advice for clients and coding professionals as well as insights from her career journey.

1. Can you tell us about your journey in healthcare?

I began working in healthcare in the 1990s in a private pediatric clinic. I worked in several private practices before transitioning to a hospital system in 2010. These experiences gave me a clear understanding of the importance of revenue cycle management. At times, I did basic coding, clearinghouse edit resolution, and denial management.

After transitioning to the hospital system, I worked on a team that trained front-end revenue cycle employees – both new hires and those brought in through facility acquisition/partnership with private practices. I then moved into profee coding full-time. Eventually, I transitioned to facility coding, followed by auditing and training of new coders, provider documentation education, and supervisorial work of auditing teams. I moved to 3m, where I worked as a Nosologist for outpatient questions. I now work with the Harmony Healthcare team, performing internal audits and educational training for our coders assigned to various sites.

2. What are you most proud of about your journey with Harmony Healthcare?

I’m proud of the personal relationships I’ve made with coders and the coaching I’ve given to individuals. I find it exciting to help others grow and work through new concepts. Given the healthcare and coding industries are always changing, there are many opportunities to support our coders and clients with information and resources.

3. What is the biggest takeaway you’ve gained from your career thus far?

My key takeaway is that growth and adaptation are essential and involve risk. I’ve been fortunate to have several exceptional mentors who encouraged and guided me through taking those risks—whether by stepping into new roles or by pushing the boundaries of my capabilities.

4. What are the top Coding trends that you think people in the industry need to be prepared for?

I’m excited about the growing role of personalized medicine, especially through the use of genetic testing. I believe this advancement holds promise for improving patient outcomes and driving specialization within our industry. With the support of AI, these developments have the potential to transform the delivery of care.

5. What advice would you give professionals in the Coding industry?

Look at advancements and changes as opportunities. Reading books or engaging in podcasts that address personal development can be helpful in thinking outside the box about how you can innovate.

6. Tell us a little about Jennifer outside of your professional life. How do you spend your time outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my two boys. We love sports as a family. We enjoy watching and playing various sports and I enjoy practicing with them and being their cheerleader.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your organization’s medical coding operations or are looking for a new coding job, Harmony Healthcare can help. Reach out to us to see how we can support you.