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Electronic health records (EHRs) are used in healthcare settings like hospitals, medical practices, nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities where they are maintained by medical records technicians, who are skilled professionals in the health information technology field.
If you’ve been thinking about a career in the business side of healthcare, working as a medical records technician may be right for you. In this article, we will define some of the daily responsibilities of this profession and explore the education, skills, career outlook and certifications required to pursue it.
In today’s digital age, healthcare organizations rely heavily on electronic medical records and health information systems to store, manage and exchange patient data This has led to the emergence of an extremely important role within the healthcare workforce – the medical records technician
In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into all aspects of what a medical records technician is, their day-to-day responsibilities, required skills, work settings, career outlook and how you can get started in this field.
What is a Medical Records Technician?
A medical records technician, also known as a health information technician, is responsible for organizing and managing patient health information data. Their primary role involves maintaining complete, accurate and updated medical records and ensuring these confidential records adhere to legal, regulatory and accreditation standards.
In a nutshell, medical records technicians are like the data administrators of the healthcare system who ensure smooth documentation workflows. They play a key role in optimizing medical records management so that healthcare organizations can deliver excellent, coordinated patient care.
Responsibilities of a Medical Records Technician
The typical job duties and responsibilities include
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Reviewing patient records received from healthcare providers to ensure all necessary information is included
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Entering patient data like symptoms, examination results, diagnoses, treatment plans, lab tests etc. into electronic health record (EHR) systems
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Assigning alphanumeric medical codes to diagnoses, procedures, services and equipment
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Utilizing classification systems like ICD-10, CPT and HCPCS for standardized coding
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Verifying accuracy and completeness of electronic records
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Tracking patient outcomes, survival rates and other data for databases
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Compiling patient data and producing reports for analysis by healthcare administrators
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Ensuring security and confidentiality of all patient records
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Maintaining organizational databases of medical documentation
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Communicating with physicians and other healthcare staff to clarify record discrepancies
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Staying updated with evolving technologies, codes and regulations
Skills and Qualifications Required
To be successful as a medical records technician, below are some of the most important skills and qualifications needed:
Technical Skills
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Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, disease processes and pharmaceuticals
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Proficiency with healthcare IT systems and applications
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Strong computer skills including MS Office, data analysis software, EHR/EMR platforms
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Excellent data entry and typing speed/accuracy
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Understanding of coding classification systems like ICD-10-CM, CPT and HCPCS
Soft Skills
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Attention to detail and accuracy
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Organizational skills
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Analytical thinking
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Communication skills
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Time management and ability to multitask
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Integrity and accountability
Education and Training Requirements
Here are the minimum education and certification requirements for medical records technicians:
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High school diploma or GED equivalent
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Completion of a training program or certification course for medical coding or health information technology
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Optional associate’s degree in health information technology
The most recognized certifications in this field are:
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Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
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Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
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Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
While not mandatory, an associate’s or bachelor’s degree related to health information management can enhance job prospects and earning potential. Most employers provide on-the-job training as well.
Where Do Medical Records Technicians Work?
Some of the common work settings for medical records technicians include:
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Hospitals
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Physician clinics and practices
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Nursing care facilities
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Healthcare IT companies
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Insurance providers
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Government health agencies
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Pharmaceutical companies
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Health information exchanges
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Clinical research organizations
Many medical records techs work typical weekday office hours. Those employed at healthcare facilities may need to work evenings, weekends or shifts to provide round-the-clock record coverage. Some technicians also have the flexibility to work remotely.
Career Outlook and Salary Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow by 7% between 2021-2031, faster than the average across all occupations.
This steady growth can be attributed to the continuous adoption of EHR systems across healthcare and the growing need for trained professionals who can leverage these technologies to optimize medical data management.
In 2021, the median annual salary for medical records technicians was $46,660 as per BLS data. Those with specialized certifications and higher experience can earn upwards of $60,000 annually.
Overall, medical records technician is a promising and stable career choice for those interested in the healthcare IT field.
How to Become a Medical Records Technician
If you are interested in embarking on a career as a medical records tech, here are the key steps to get you started:
1. Earn a High School Diploma
A high school diploma or equivalent GED certification is the minimum educational requirement for this role. Coursework related to health sciences, biology, IT, math, statistics and business will be helpful.
2. Complete a Training Program
Enrolling in a specialized medical coding or health information technology certificate program will equip you with the diagnostics codes, EHR/EMR knowledge and other technical skills needed for the job. Many community colleges and technical schools offer 1 year certificate programs in medical coding and health informatics.
3. Obtain a Certification
Earning an industry-recognized certification like RHIT or CCA will make you more employable. You can get certified by passing an exam conducted by credentialing organizations like AHIMA and AAPC. Some certificate programs also include exam preparation.
4. Consider Earning an Associate’s Degree
While optional, completing an associate’s degree in health information technology or health informatics can help advance your career beyond entry-level roles. Many employers may prefer candidates who have an associate’s degree.
5. Apply for Jobs
Once you have the essential qualifications, start applying for open medical records technician positions at healthcare organizations. Hospital networks, clinics, nursing homes and insurance providers regularly hire candidates with the right credentials.
6. Maintain Your Credentials
Get adequate on-the-job training and maintain your credentials through continuing education courses. Learn new skills to boost your earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
Key Takeaways
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Medical records technicians play a vital behind-the-scenes role in healthcare by maintaining and managing patient health information.
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Key duties involve maintaining accurate records, entering/verifying data, assigning codes, producing reports, ensuring security of patient data.
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Strong technology skills, attention to detail, ethics and communication abilities are required.
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Associate’s degree and/or specialized certifications like RHIT are preferred credentials.
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Work settings include hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, insurance firms and health IT companies.
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BLS projects 7% job growth between 2021-2031 for medical records technicians. Median annual salary is $46,660.
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High school graduates can get started by completing a training program and obtaining a certification.
In our modern digitized healthcare environment, skilled medical records technicians will continue to be highly valued for their critical role in reliably managing patient data.
What Does a Medical Records Technician Do?
Also referred to as health information technicians, these healthcare professionals create and maintain medical records. Working in doctors offices, surgery centers, emergency departments, outpatient clinics or hospital billing centers, some of a medical records technicians duties and responsibilities include:
- Reviewing patient care documents to ensure accuracy
- Recording patient codes
- Advising on coding procedures
- Inputting and managing patient data using various software programs
- Collaborating with medical staff to clarify coding information
According to the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), EHRs are the next step toward strengthening the relationship between patients and clinicians by making patient care data more timely and more available. CMS says EHRs can reduce the incidence of medical error by improving the accuracy and clarity of health records, reduce delays in treatment and cut down on the duplication of tests. Information typically kept in EHRs includes:
- Demographics
- Progress notes
- Medications
- Vital signs
- Past medical and immunization history
- Laboratory and radiology data
Medical records technicians are responsible for maintaining electronic records so they are accessible for future patient visits and can be easily sent between providers when necessary. This digitization of medical records improves efficiency, cutting down on the number of times a patient is asked to provide information and potentially reducing human error that could occur in this process.
Another important aspect of health information, and a key responsibility of a medical records technician, is communicating information to the insurers or payers involved in the healthcare revenue cycle. Accurate coding is required to be sure patient conditions and treatments are documented according to insurance companies’ standard reporting systems, resulting in accurate reimbursement to providers or when billing is sent directly to patients.
How To Become a Medical Records Technician
If you plan to pursue a career as a medical records technician you will need training in how to manage electronic health records and in medical billing and coding. You also may be required to pursue industry-recognized certifications and the continuing professional education that entails.
What Is a Medical Records Technician?
What is the coursework for medical records technician programs?
The coursework for medical records technician programs covers various topics designed to prepare you for your future career. You will encounter classes in medical terminology, which will help you understand and interpret the language used by health care professionals.
What is a medical records technician?
Medical records technicians—sometimes referred to as health information technicians or health information specialists—assist medical offices and other healthcare agencies with the management and organization of patient health information.
How to become a medical records technician?
Symptoms, diagnoses and follow-up actions, are noted by the medical records technician. Accuracy, timing, and attention to detail are essential to perform this career successfully. Find a medical trade school with E/MRT training.
Where do medical record technicians work?
There are also jobs available with government offices, correctional facilities, and insurance providers. Some workers are involved in administrative and support, technical services, and nursing care facilities. You spend most of your time working in offices on the computer, but some medical record technicians work remotely.
