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A medical records technician (also known as a health information tech) is an administrative job. In fact, they can work in the healthcare field without diagnosing or treating patients. Primarily, these techs complete administrative tasks such as record-keeping and complies with healthcare coding system standards. Next, watch a video to learn more about this career field.
How to Become a Medical Records Technician
To become a medical records technician, candidates normally have a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers are beginning to require formal training or an associate’s degree. Formal training general consists of creating, managing, editing, and interpreting medical records. Also, knowledge of medical jargon and terminology would be important. Additionally, candidates with coding, medical classifications, standards, and insurance training may have a higher chance of employment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers look for certified technicians. However, there are many training programs that are accredited. For example, the Registered Health Information Technician program provides licenses through the American Health Information Management Association. There is also the Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) program. This program provides people with a certification from the National Cancer Registrars Association and the American Academy of Coders.
The Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification exam focuses on revenue cycles, legal matters, quality assurance, information technology, compliance, coding and data analysis. Whereas, the CTR certification exam covers quality, analysis, data usage, operations and management, cancer committee and conference, and activities of centralized registries.
Job Description of a Medical Records Technician
Whenever a patient sees a doctor, there are notes from the doctor that a medical records technician must add to a patient’s record. They would document the patient’s existing health conditions. medical history, medications, and treatment plans. A medical records technician is responsible to track all aspects of a patient’s medical history and care received. The accuracy and quality of this recorded data will be pertinent for insurance company reimbursements for services rendered to the patients from your employer.
You should have high analytical, technical, and computer skills in addition to being detailed-oriented and having high integrity when entering this career field. You will be maintaining and accessing patients personal information, well-being, health procedures, and medical problems. Most work full time, and those who do work in facilities that are open 24 hours a day may have to work evening hours or night shifts.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Records and Health Information Technicians.
National Center for O*NET Development. 29-2071.00. O*NET OnLine.