Medical Records Specialist

Your Fit

Income

$50K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

8.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Medical Records Specialist?

A Medical Records Specialist is a healthcare professional responsible for managing and maintaining patients' health information and records. They ensure the accuracy, accessibility, and security of these records in both paper and electronic systems.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Medical Records Specialist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Medical Records Specialist earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$36K per year	$42K per year	$50K per year	$64K per year	$81K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $750 above the national average.

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What does a Medical Records Specialist do?

Work environment

Medical Records Specialists typically work in hospitals, clinics, physicians' offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. They may also find employment in government agencies, insurance companies, and legal offices. The work is generally office-based with standard working hours, although some facilities may require evening or weekend shifts.

Quick task list

Organizes and manages patients' health information data.
Ensures all records are accurate, complete, and in compliance with relevant laws and standards.
Uses various classification systems to code and categorize patient information.
Assists in audits and quality assurance processes.
Protects patients' confidentiality and secures record access.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Health Information Technician: Specializing in managing electronic health records and ensuring their accuracy and security.
Medical Coding Specialist: Focusing on coding patient diagnoses and procedures for billing and insurance purposes.
Cancer Registrar: Collecting and maintaining data on cancer patients for research and treatment analysis.
Compliance Specialist: Ensuring that records and practices adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Electronic Health Record (EHR) Implementation Specialist: Specializing in setting up and maintaining EHR systems in healthcare facilities.

Description

Medical Records Specialists play a critical role in the healthcare industry by ensuring that patient records are accurately and securely maintained. Their work supports patient care, billing, compliance, and quality assurance efforts. Specialists must be proficient in various classification and coding systems, electronic health record (EHR) software, and understand healthcare regulations, particularly those related to patient privacy and data security.

Attention to detail is crucial in this field, as is a strong understanding of medical terminology and healthcare practices. Medical Records Specialists must be able to adapt to evolving technologies and regulations in healthcare information management. They often work collaboratively with healthcare providers, billing and insurance personnel, and IT staff.

This career is ideal for individuals who are organized, detail-oriented, and have an interest in healthcare but prefer a more administrative role. It offers the opportunity to contribute to patient care and the healthcare system without being involved in direct patient interactions.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a key role in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of patient health information.
Contributing to the smooth operation of healthcare facilities through efficient record-keeping.
Opportunities to specialize and advance in various aspects of health information management.

You might make a good Medical Records Specialist if you are...

Detail-oriented with a strong inclination for organization and accuracy.
Interested in healthcare and medical terminology, but prefer an administrative role.
Skilled in using technology and comfortable learning new software systems.
Committed to upholding confidentiality and ethical standards.
Able to work both independently and as part of a team.

Pros:

Stable and growing field with increasing demand for health information specialists.
Opportunities to work in various healthcare settings.
Potential for specialization and career advancement.

Cons:

The work can be repetitive and requires long periods of time spent at a computer.
Keeping up with changing regulations and technologies can be challenging.
Handling sensitive information requires strict adherence to privacy laws and ethical standards.

How to become a Medical Records Specialist

Typical education

Most positions require at least a postsecondary certificate or an associate's degree in health information technology, which can take 1-2 years to complete. Some roles may require a bachelor's degree, particularly for advancement into management positions.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Health Sciences to understand medical terminology.
Computer Science and Information Technology for skills in managing electronic records.
Mathematics for developing analytical skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering in healthcare settings to gain exposure to the medical field.
Joining clubs or courses related to coding, data management, or healthcare.
Participating in workshops or online courses in medical coding or health information technology.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a certificate or associate's degree in health information technology or a related field.
Consider certification through organizations like the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) or the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in medical records departments.

More resources

American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) - Offers certification, education, and resources for health information professionals.
American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) - Provides certification and training in medical coding, billing, auditing, compliance, and practice management.
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) - A global organization focused on better health through information and technology.
Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) - Accredits health informatics and health information management programs.

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