Introduction to Medical Health Records Technicians
Medical Health Records Technicians, also known as Health Information Technicians, play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They are responsible for maintaining and managing patient health information, ensuring its accuracy, completeness, and confidentiality. With the increasing demand for electronic health records, the job prospects for Medical Health Records Technicians are expected to grow significantly. In this blog post, we will explore the 5 ways to become a Medical Health Records Technician.
What does a Medical Health Records Technician do?
A Medical Health Records Technician is responsible for:
- Maintaining and managing patient health records, both paper-based and electronic
- Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of patient data
- Assigning codes for diagnoses and procedures
- Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to HIPAA regulations
- Analyzing data to identify trends and patterns
- Preparing reports and statistics for healthcare providers and researchers
5 Ways to Become a Medical Health Records Technician
1. Earn a Post-Secondary Certificate or Associate’s Degree
To become a Medical Health Records Technician, you typically need to earn a post-secondary certificate or associate’s degree in health information technology (HIT) or a related field. These programs are usually offered at community colleges or vocational schools and take two years to complete.
2. Complete a Training Program in Medical Coding
Medical coding is an essential skill for Medical Health Records Technicians. You can complete a training program in medical coding, which can last from a few months to a year. These programs teach you how to assign codes for diagnoses and procedures using classification systems such as ICD-10-CM and CPT.
3. Gain Practical Experience through Internships or Volunteer Work
Practical experience is essential to become a successful Medical Health Records Technician. You can gain experience by interning or volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare facilities. This hands-on experience will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field.
4. Obtain Certification
Certification is not mandatory, but it can increase your job prospects and earning potential. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers several certifications, including the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) and the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS).
5. Stay Up-to-Date with Continuing Education
The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and Medical Health Records Technicians need to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in health information technology and coding systems. You can achieve this by attending workshops, conferences, and online courses.
💡 Note: Certification requirements may vary depending on the state or employer. It's essential to check the certification requirements in your area.
Key Skills and Qualities
To succeed as a Medical Health Records Technician, you need to possess the following skills and qualities:
- Attention to detail: Medical Health Records Technicians need to be detail-oriented to ensure the accuracy and completeness of patient data.
- Analytical skills: They need to analyze data to identify trends and patterns.
- Communication skills: They need to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and patients.
- Organizational skills: They need to manage multiple records and maintain confidentiality.
- Technical skills: They need to be proficient in electronic health records systems and coding software.
Conclusion
Becoming a Medical Health Records Technician requires a combination of education, training, and experience. By following these 5 ways, you can start a rewarding career in this field. Remember to stay up-to-date with continuing education and maintain the necessary skills and qualities to succeed in this role.
What is the average salary of a Medical Health Records Technician?
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The average salary of a Medical Health Records Technician varies depending on the location, employer, and level of experience. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Health Information Technicians was $42,820 in May 2020.
Do I need a degree to become a Medical Health Records Technician?
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While a degree is not always required, it is highly recommended. A post-secondary certificate or associate’s degree in health information technology or a related field can increase your job prospects and earning potential.
What is the job outlook for Medical Health Records Technicians?
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The job outlook for Medical Health Records Technicians is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Health Information Technicians is projected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
