Medical Records Technician Jobs
There’s a golden adage that states “Two heads are better than one”, and this is especially true when it comes to keeping track of vital medical documents and records. In order to keep patient’s records and info correct and up to – date, hospitals and clinics hire a Medical Record Technicians.
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The healthcare industry relies heavily on the accurate and secure management of patient health information. Medical records technicians (MRT’s), also known as health information technicians, play a pivotal role in ensuring that patient records are meticulously maintained and readily available when needed. Without these essential individuals, doctors and nurses alike may make mistakes regarding diagnoses and medications that can have consequences on the patients involved, both minor and severe. In other words, if it weren’t for these technicians working behind the scenes, medical professionals would not be able to do their jobs properly.
With that being said, this article provides an overview of medical records technician jobs, including their responsibilities, required education and skills, as well as the career prospects in this field.
Overview of Medical Records Technician Jobs
Medical records technicians are responsible for organizing, managing, and securing patient health information data. They work with a variety of healthcare records, including electronic health records (EHRs), medical histories, diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and insurance information. Their primary goal is to maintain accurate and complete patient records, ensuring that healthcare professionals have access to the information needed for effective patient care.
The duties of an MRT encompass a range of responsibilities critical to the healthcare system. These professionals review patient records for accuracy and completeness, ensuring that all necessary information is properly documented. They enter medical data into computer systems, maintain the security and confidentiality of patient records, and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and standards.
Additionally, MRT’s may also be involved in assigning diagnostic codes to patient records for insurance reimbursement and statistical purposes, a role that requires a strong understanding of medical coding systems.
Required Education and Training
To pursue this career path, individuals typically need an associate degree in health information technology, health informatics, or a related field. Some employers may also require professional certification, such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential, which can be obtained through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Coursework in health informatics, medical coding, healthcare law and ethics, and information technology is essential for aspiring MRT’s.
Necessary Skills
These pivotal healthcare professionals need to possess strong attention to detail, as they are solely responsible for maintaining accurate and complete patient records. Proficiency in using electronic health record systems and other healthcare software is crucial for this role. Additionally, excellent organizational and communication skills are essential, as medical records technicians often interact with healthcare professionals to clarify documentation and ensure accuracy. They should also have a solid understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology to accurately interpret and process medical information.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to an aging population that will require more medical services, leading to an increased need for healthcare documentation. Additionally, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $42,630, with the highest 10% earning more than $73,370.
Additionally, organizational skills, integrity, and a commitment to patient safety are crucial in this role. The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously is also beneficial for success as a pharmacy technician. Lastly, a strong understanding of medical terminology, pharmacy law, and pharmaceutical calculations is essential for performing the job competently.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Medical records technicians can advance their careers by pursuing additional certifications or specializations, such as becoming a Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR). With experience and further education, they can also progress into roles such as health information manager, where they oversee the entire medical records department within a healthcare facility. The demand for skilled medical records technicians is expected to grow, presenting opportunities for career advancement and increased responsibilities.
Work Environment
Most of the positions in this field are located in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, physician offices, nursing care facilities, and outpatient care centers. They may also find employment opportunities in government agencies, insurance companies, and medical billing organizations. These professionals generally work full-time hours and may need to be available during evenings, weekends, or on-call shifts in some healthcare settings. The work environment for medical records technicians is typically office-based, often in a dedicated medical records department within a healthcare facility.
Challenges and Rewards
While medical records technicians play a vital role in maintaining accurate and secure patient records, they also face challenges such as ensuring compliance with constantly evolving healthcare regulations and standards. However, the rewards of this profession include the satisfaction of contributing to the efficient delivery of healthcare services and the potential for career growth in a rapidly expanding field. MRT’s have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient care by ensuring that healthcare providers have access to accurate and up-to-date patient information.
Additional Considerations
Staying abreast of technological advancements and changes in healthcare regulations is essential in this career. For example, continuing education and professional development opportunities are available through organizations such as AHIMA and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). These opportunities allow medical records technicians to expand their knowledge, stay current with industry trends, and maintain their professional certifications.
Also, with the increasing use of electronic health records and the digitization of healthcare information, ensuring the security and privacy of patient data is a top priority for medical records technicians. These professionals must be well-versed in healthcare data security practices and compliance requirements, as well as the ethical handling of sensitive patient information. Data breaches and privacy violations can have serious consequences, making the role of medical records technicians in safeguarding patient data more critical than ever.
