As the healthcare industry changes, the Health Information Clerk is an important part of making sure that patient records and data are managed well. As CXOs and HR professionals try to find new employees in the healthcare field, which is always changing, it’s important to know what the latest hiring trends and analytics are for Health Information Clerks.
The need for skilled workers in this field has been steadily rising as technology has improved. At the same time, there has been a greater focus on data privacy, compliance, and effective health information management. This introduction aims to give you an idea of the hiring trends and changing job market for Health Information Clerks so that HR professionals and CXOs can make smart choices when looking for and hiring people in this important field.
Getting hired as a medical records reviewer can be competitive. You’ll need to demonstrate your skills, experience and expertise during the interview to stand out from other applicants.
I’ve interviewed for several medical records reviewer roles throughout my career From my experience, here are the 21 most common medical records reviewer interview questions you should prepare to answer Mastering responses to these will help you ace your next interview!
1. Why are you interested in working as a medical records reviewer?
Interviewers often ask this question first to understand your motivation for pursuing this career. When answering, be specific about why you’re passionate about medical records review. For example, you can mention your interest in healthcare compliance attention to detail or organizing and analyzing data. Avoid generic answers.
Tailor your response to the company’s mission. For example, “I’m interested in working for ABC Company because of your commitment to reducing healthcare fraud through meticulous medical records review.” This shows you’ve researched the role and company.
2. What medical records review experience do you have?
Hiring managers want proof you can do the job effectively. When answering, specify your experience reviewing medical charts, records, or documentation. Mention the types of records you’ve reviewed and your responsibilities.
Highlight achievements like improving accuracy of records or speeding up review turnaround times. Quantify your accomplishments with numbers whenever possible. If you have limited directly relevant experience, relate other skills from past roles.
3. What do you look for when reviewing medical records?
This question tests your working knowledge of medical records analysis. In your response, describe the aspects of records you examine, such as:
- Accuracy of clinical documentation
- Consistency with diagnoses
- Adherence to regulations
- Completeness of forms
- Physician signatures
Show that you understand what constitutes high quality, compliant records in a clinical setting. You can reference standards from CMS, Joint Commission, or AHIMA.
4. How does your experience align with our medical reviewer job description and required skills?
The interviewer wants to understand specifically why you would excel in the open role. Analyze the job description and required qualifications prior to your interview. Then explain how your background fits with the position’s duties and prerequisites.
Connect specific experiences from your work history with skills listed in the job description like attention to detail, data analysis, clinical knowledge, etc. This will showcase you as an ideal candidate.
5. Are you familiar with medical terminology?
Medical records reviewers must possess healthcare vocabulary knowledge. Be prepared to give examples of common medical abbreviations, anatomy terms, diagnoses, medications, instruments, and more that you are familiar with from past experience.
If you have limited clinical background, brush up on medical terminology beforehand. There are many free nursing and medical abbreviation guides online to study. However, take care not to overstate your level of medical knowledge.
6. How do you ensure accuracy and completeness when reviewing medical records?
Hiring managers want to know your process for careful, detailed review. In your response, explain step-by-step how you check for accuracy and completeness. For example:
- Verifying dates, signatures, identifiers
- Comparing records against source documents
- Looking for gaps in chronology or care
- Checking for compliance with regulations
Providing a clear, structured overview of your methodology will showcase your attention to detail. Bonus points if you mention using validation tools like checklists.
7. What qualities make an effective medical records reviewer?
With this behavioral question, the interviewer wants to gauge your self-awareness and fit for the role. Respond with qualities like:
- Strong attention to detail
- Critical thinking and problem solving skills
- Knowledge of medical coding and terminology
- Analytical mindset
- High ethics and integrity
Back up your response with specific examples of times you demonstrated these qualities in past roles. This will reinforce you are the right candidate.
8. How do you prioritize reviewing medical records to avoid backlogs?
Medical records reviewers often juggle high work volumes. This question tests your time management and organizational skills.
In your response, explain techniques you use to prioritize review tasks, such as:
- Reviewing records chronologically
- Starting with high priority or expedited requests
- Creating tracking systems to monitor due dates
- Escalating issues that could cause delays
- Asking for deadline extensions if needed
Providing strategies shows you can work efficiently and minimize backlogs.
9. What computer skills do you have that relate to this role?
Medical records are increasingly electronic, so computer literacy is key. Respond highlighting experience with:
- Electronic health records (EHR) systems
- Data analysis tools like Excel or Access
- Medical billing/coding software
- Database management
- Basic PC skills like email, Word, Outlook
If the company uses specific EHR or review platforms, mention any experience you have with relevant programs. This will reinforce you can hit the ground running if hired.
10. How do you stay organized while reviewing many records?
Medical records reviewers must juggle numerous records at once. Share tips and tactics you use for staying organized such as:
- Creating tracking spreadsheets
- Using calendars to manage deadlines
- Organizing records into digital folders by date or priority
- Taking detailed notes while reviewing
- Having a clean, uncluttered desk space
Conveying that you are meticulous and methodical will assure the interviewer you can handle the data demands of the role.
11. What’s your experience using EHR or medical record systems?
Given how vital digital records management is for the role, expect to be asked about your EHR experience. Be prepared to name specific EHR platforms you’re proficient in like Epic, Allscripts, MEDITECH, etc.
For each one, briefly explain how you utilized the system, including key features like:
- Entering/updating patient data
- Running reports
- Managing user accessibility
- Ensuring compliance and security
If you don’t have hands-on EHR experience, talk up any relevant transferable skills or willingness to learn new programs quickly.
12. How would you handle finding incomplete or inaccurate information in a medical record?
Part of a reviewer’s job is identifying record errors and omissions. Explain step-by-step how you would handle finding a problematic record, such as:
-investigate discrepancies to determine root cause
-discuss the issue with the care provider to get additional context
-update incomplete information by researching other data sources
-flag inaccurate sections for removal if unverifiable
-route the record to management if major issues are found
Demonstrating a thoughtful process will assure hiring managers you exercise sound judgment addressing record problems.
13. What healthcare regulations related to medical records are you familiar with?
Medical records review involves staying compliant with complex healthcare laws and regulations. Cite specific regulations you have experience with such as:
- HIPAA
- ACA
- Joint Commission standards
- CMS conditions of participation
- State medical record retention laws
Even if your knowledge is limited, demonstrating awareness of key health IT and privacy regulations shows your commitment to compliance. Just avoid stretching the truth.
14. How do you stay up to date on medical records best practices and regulations?
The field of health information management evolves constantly, so reviewers must stay current. Discuss proactive steps you take to remain up to date, like:
- Reading industry journals and publications
- Joining professional associations like AHIMA
- Attending conferences and seminars
- Completing continuing education courses
- Setting Google Alerts for news on best practices
Conveying your dedication to continuous learning will impress the interviewer.
15. Why is it important to have standardized processes for medical records review?
This question gauges your understanding of the principles behind sound records management. Emphasize that standardized review processes:
- Ensure consistency and reduce human error
- Make it easier to detect anomalies or issues
- Improve compliance by creating shared expectations
- Increase transparency and accountability
- Optimize productivity by eliminating redundancies
Standardization demonstrates the importance you place on accuracy, efficiency, and best practices.
16. How would you handle a disagreement with a provider about the contents of a medical record?
Conflicts between reviewers and care providers can occur when record discrepancies are found. Demonstrate diplomacy and problem-solving skills in your response. For example:
- Hear the provider out to understand their stance
- Have an open dialogue about discrepancies
- Check the record thoroughly to validate your findings
- Consult guidelines to determine the appropriate record contents
- Involve a supervisor if needed to arbitrate
Position yourself as someone who approaches disagreements professionally and aims for positive solutions.
17. Are you comfortable reviewing records that contain sensitive health information?
Medical records frequently contain sensitive patient health data. Assure the interviewer you take privacy seriously. For instance, mention:
- Your understanding of privacy laws like HIPAA
- Any confidentiality agreements you’ve signed
- How you avoid discussing or disclosing protected information
- Your commitment to safeguarding sensitive health data
This will demonstrate you have the ethics and maturity to handle confidential information
5 sample answers to behavioral interview questions for the Health Information Clerk
- What was a time when you had to deal with private patient information? How did you make sure the information stayed private and safe?
look for: Employers want to see how well you understand how important patient privacy is and how well you can protect privacy and security.
Example answer: In my previous role as a Health Information Clerk, I regularly handled confidential patient information. In one instance, I had to process a large batch of medical records for a group of patients. To protect privacy and safety, I stuck to the rules, like only accessing the data on secure computers and making sure paper documents were kept in locked cabinets. Additionally, I followed HIPAA rules by keeping information strictly private and only giving it to authorized individuals who needed to know it.
- Tell me about a time when you had to meet a tight deadline. How did you prioritize your tasks and ensure timely completion?.
look for: Employers want to gauge your ability to manage your time effectively and handle competing priorities.
As a Health Information Clerk, I often had to meet tight deadlines, like when I had to do audits or answer urgent requests. In one particular instance, I had to prepare and submit a comprehensive report within a tight timeframe. To figure out what to do first, I looked at how important and how quickly each task needed to be done, made a detailed schedule, and divided the work into smaller tasks that I could handle. I finished the project ahead of schedule by staying focused, organizing my work, and working with others when I needed to.
- Tell me about a time when you had to explain complicated medical information to someone who wasn’t a doctor or nurse. How did you ensure they understood the information?.
What employers want to know is how well you can explain technical information to people who may not have a background in medicine.
While I was working in my previous job, I had to explain a complicated medical procedure to a patient who didn’t know much about medicine. To ensure understanding, I used clear and jargon-free language, avoided technical terms, and focused on providing relevant information. I also utilized visual aids, such as diagrams or brochures, to enhance comprehension. I also encouraged the patient to ask questions and listened carefully as they talked about their worries, reassuring and supporting them the whole time.
- Could you tell me about a time when you found a mistake in a patient’s record and how you dealt with it?
look for: Employers want to assess your attention to detail and ability to handle mistakes professionally.
Example answer: When I worked as a Health Information Clerk, I saw a mistake in a patient’s medical record that might have caused the wrong diagnosis. I told my boss about the problem right away, making sure to include clear proof of the mistake and suggestions for how to fix it. To fix the mistake, I did what was expected of me, which included starting a record review process and adding correct information to the record. I also talked to the healthcare provider to make sure they knew about the change and did what they needed to do.
- Tell me about a time when you had to change how you used software or technology. How did you handle the transition?.
look for: Employers want to evaluate your flexibility and ability to adapt to technological advancements.
Example answer: In my previous role, our department implemented a new electronic health record (EHR) system. At first, I went to training sessions to get used to the new software and actively looked for more information to help me learn it better. As I got used to the new system, I helped my coworkers get used to it by actively taking part in its implementation and giving feedback to the team in charge of it. I was patient and persistent, working through problems and asking for help when I needed it, which helped me learn the new software quickly.
15 behavioral interview questions for a Health Information Clerk
- Please tell me about a time when you had to deal with a tough situation while keeping patient information private. How did you handle it?.
- Describe a time when you found a mistake or a difference in patient records. What steps did you take to fix the problem and make sure it doesn’t happen again?
- As a Health Information Clerk, can you give me an example of a time when you had to prioritize several tasks with different due dates? How did you manage your time to make sure you got everything done?
- Describe a time when you had to work together with healthcare professionals (e.g. g. , physicians, nurses) to obtain accurate and complete patient information. How did you ensure effective communication and collaboration?.
- When you had to have a sensitive or hard conversation with a patient or their family about their health, what did you do? How did you start the conversation to make sure they understood and were happy?
- Can you think of a time when you had to figure out complicated medical terms or coding in order to write down correct diagnoses or procedures for patients?
- Tell me about a time when you had to change how you used health information management tech or software. How did you handle the change? What did you do to make sure everything went smoothly?
- Talk about a time when you saw a way to make a health information management process better. What steps did you take to fix the problem and make things better?
- Tell me about a time when you had to handle a lot of requests for medical records in a short amount of time. How did you make sure that all of the requests were handled correctly and on time?
- Tell me about a time when you had a difficult disagreement or conflict with a boss or coworker. What did you do in that situation, and how did it turn out?
- Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a breach of private or sensitive data. What did you do in response? What steps did you take to lessen the damage and stop future breaches?
- Can you think of a time when you had to teach or train other staff members on health information management policies or procedures? How did you make sure they understood and followed the rules?
- Just give me an example of a time when a legal entity asked you to get their medical records. g. , a court subpoena). What steps did you take to make sure you followed the law and kept patient information private?
- Tell me about a time when you had to manage multiple tasks and priorities while still being very careful and accurate in health information management.
- Can you talk about a time when you had to deal with a complicated insurance claim or billing issue that had to do with managing health information? How did you handle the situation and make sure it was resolved to your satisfaction?
Summarizing Medical Records and its Importance in Medical Record Review
FAQ
What questions are asked in a medical records manager interview?
What does a medical record reviewer do?
How do you answer a medical records interview question?
This question is a great way for an interviewer to learn more about your knowledge of the medical records department and how you would fit in. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific skills or qualities that you have that will help you succeed in the role.
What questions are asked in a medical records clerk interview?
You may also be asked questions about your experience with medical records and your knowledge of medical terminology. To help you prepare for your interview, we have put together a list of common medical records clerk interview questions and answers. 1. Are you familiar with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA?
What do interviewers want from your medical records?
Ensuring the secure and accurate transfer of medical records while adhering to privacy regulations, such as HIPAA, is paramount. Interviewers want to know that you have a solid understanding of the process, can manage requests efficiently, and maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
What are the 16 medical reviewer interview questions?
These 16 medical reviewer interview questions allow the hiring manager to learn more about your past and motivation for pursuing this career: What made you want to work in the health sector? Why are you interested in working as a medical reviewer? Which aspects of this profession do you enjoy the most? What aspects do you find most challenging?
