HIM Technician
JOB SUMMARY
The Health Information Management (HIM) Technician is vital to the daily management of health information and electronic health records (EHRs). They ensure a patient’s health information (PHI) and medical records are complete, accurate, and protected. They perform a variety of job functions which includes filing, retrieving, distributing, analyzing, scanning, indexing, patient portal, release of information and record completion. They are familiar with applying knowledge of the Medical Staff By-Laws, regulatory standards such as The Joint Commission and HIPAA privacy rules, and departmental guidelines to accurately perform job responsibilities. Strives for superior performance by consistently providing a product or service to leadership and staff that is recognized as ultimately contributing to the patient and family experience. Recognizes and demonstrates understanding of patient and family centered care.
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Demonstrates knowledge of and supports hospital mission, vision, value statements, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality statements, corporate compliance plan, customer service standards, and the code of ethical behavior.
The Health Information Management (HIM) Technician is primarily responsible for management of patients’ health care records. There are four areas of focus. (1) Health Record Management and Record Completion (2) Scan and Import Records (3) Release of Information (4) Patient Portal.
HEALTH RECORD MANAGEMENT AND RECORD COMPLETION
- Assembles all types of medical records in established order for discharged patients from the long-term care unit.
- Analyzes medical record for accuracy and completeness and assigns deficiencies to appropriate clinician for completion, utilizing incomplete record deficiency module.
- Retrieves medical record and / or dictation upon physician request to complete record deficiency utilizing computerized record location system or dictation system.
- Maintains computerized incomplete record module on a daily basis and makes necessary updates and deletions to ensure proper completion of the record.
- Performs quality review checks daily to ensure that the record is incomplete or complete.
- Compiles listing and notifies each physician of incomplete records / deficiencies.
- Maintains the filing storage and retrieval of medical records of all patient encounters (inpatient, outpatient, ER, etc.).
- Merge duplicate medical record numbers in all hospital systems Meditech (Magic, Expanse) and Allscripts.
SCAN AND IMPORT RECORDS
Prepares medical records for scanning.Scans records into the electronic medical record.Performs quality assurance checks on scanned records to assure all documents were scanned appropriately.Create forms in form software, including applying bar codes for form and patient identification and / or participate in departmental-wide form promotion.RELEASE OF INFORMATION
Responsible for the release of confidential medical information for billable requests, audits, and continuity of care requests, upon receipt of a properly executed authorization to a variety of requestors.Review requests to check for mention of drug or alcohol abuse, psychiatric history, AIDS / HIV, sexual assault and must obtain the informed consents which are covered by federal and state regulations.Demonstrates sound judgment, deductive reasoning and the ability to detect and resolve inconsistencies in determining that the request for information is legitimate and authorized by the patient or protected by statutes which can be inconsistent or vague.Utilizes the Meditech (Magic, Expanse) and Allscripts correspondence menu by following appropriate policies and procedures.Maintains a computerized index on all correspondence received according to patient name, medical record number, date received, date processed, party requesting information, records released and cover page printed.Responsible for sending all billing statements for billable requests, receiving and applying payments, and sending records upon receipt of payment.Responds to subpoenas, court orders and attends court appearance when necessary.Handles telephone, patient walk in requests and other communication concerning release of medical information following the appropriate policies and proceduresFosters respect for patient privacy by maintaining confidentially with all phases of work.PATIENT PORTAL
Responsible for assisting patients in signing up and accessing the patient portal.Responsible for answering patient portal email messages and phone calls, assisting patients as necessary.Handle requests sent from office staff to HIM for minor patient portal requests.DEPARTMENTAL AND ADDITIONAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIESPerforms other duties as directed.JOB SPECIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
High school graduate or equivalent required.Typing / keyboarding course work and approved course in medical terminology preferred.Associate degree in related field is preferred.EXPERIENCE
Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in medical records in an acute care setting required.JOB KNOWLEDGE
Understands chart arrangement, medical terminology, filing systems, scanning processes and release of information.ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sedentary Work : Frequently required to stand, kneel and crouch. On a daily basis may be required to move about, sit, climb stairs and bend. Is frequently required to lift and carry up to 20 lbs. May be required to push / pull / carry items between 20-100 lbs.Vision : Requires the ability to perceive the nature of objects by the eye. Near acuity : Clarity of vision at 20 inches or less. Midrange Acuity : Clarity of vision at distances of more than 20 inches and less than 20 feet.Motor Coordination : While performing the duties of the job, it is required to regularly perform functions that include using hand and finger movement, handle or feel objects, be able to use tools or equipment that requires reaching with hands and arms. Must be able to travel independently throughout the hospital; access patients / families including areas confined by space and / or equipment.Speaking / Hearing : Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.ESSENTIAL MENTAL ABILITIES
Able to work in a stressful environment due to time constraints, handle difficult and sensitive situations tactfully.Able to follow instructions to learn work routines and problem solve.Able to concentrate and maintain accuracy with frequent interruptions.Must be self-motivated and able to work independently.Able to read and understand patient medical files, policies and procedures.Must be able to perform basic math functions.ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL / MOTOR SKILLS
Manual dexterity requires high degree of proficiency in scanning of medical records and computer systems.Motor skills required to chart papers at nursing stations, file papers in charts and physician boxes, open and close equipment and paper boxes, scanning equipment and plug in equipment.ESSENTIAL SENSORY REQUIREMENTS
Ability to communicate through written and verbal communications receptively, expressively, with professionalism.INTERPERSONAL SKILLS
Ability to work and communicate in a positive and cooperative manner with leadership, supervisory staff, medical staff, co-workers, other healthcare personnel and outside services.Ability to exercise helpfulness, patience and tact in communication skills daily.PI1b1f11ed787a-30511-38718987