Joe,
In regards to the mass medical coding positions open suddenly - it might be because they are going to a new system called ICD-10 from the current ICD-9 system.  This new system includes much more detail about diagnoses/procedures.  Those individuals who have coded for years are in the process of receiving training for this new system and I know that many are dreading the change.  I wonder if there is a large number of coders retiring before the proposed start date of 10/1/14?  I read just today that the current ICD-9 coding has 14,500 codes and the new ICD-10 (which is much more detailed/specific) has about 70,000 codes for diagnoses.  For procedure coding it is going from the current 4,000 to a new list of about 72,000 procedure codes.  Not sure why the need for greater specificity with coding, but I believe it has to do with Medicare and I am sure will benefit insurance companies as well.
 
Best regards,
Kim D