What Medical Records Specialists Do

A medical records or health information technician is tasked with maintaining and compiling patient records. In other words, a tech will work with computers to keep track of information — and ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and administrative rules. They need strong communication skills and an excellent eye for detail.

While technicians don’t work directly with patients in most cases, they fulfill a crucial role in providing high-quality medical care. They need specialized knowledge to do their jobs; technicians need to learn the numerical coding system used throughout the healthcare industry, and they need to take great care to protect confidential information.

Most technicians work in hospitals, clinics, or in administrative offices. Some employers allow technicians to work from home. Telecommuting jobs have become more popular since the pandemic, and more hospitals are looking for ways to offer flexible work to their employees.

Job Outlook for Medical Records Specialists

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical records technicians made an average of $42,630 per year as of 2019. Salaries range greatly, and experienced technicians can expect to make more as the industry expands.

And the need for technicians is certainly expanding — the BLS estimates a job outlook growth of 8 percent over the next decade, which is must faster than the average for all U.S. jobs. That means that if you’re able to acquire a certification from an accredited program, you’ll likely find employment right away.

Other reasons to consider a career as a medical records tech:

• Excellent Benefits- Many employers offer health insurance, dental insurance, paid time off, and other perks. As the need for technicians continues to grow, hospitals may offer more attractive benefit packages to attract applicants.
• Job Security- Medical records technicians are needed throughout the United States. Because some employers allow techs to work from home, you’ll have a great chance of finding a job as soon as you’ve completed your certification.
• Fast Training- Some certification programs can be completed in under six months. By choosing an online training program, you’ll also have flexibility; you can balance your coursework with work and family obligations.

Of course, you’ll need to finish a certification before getting started. Online resources can make this process much easier, particularly if you’re working another job while completing your education.

Finding Training Programs and Employment Opportunities

To get certified as a medical records technician, you’ll need to find a program that is accredited in your state. That doesn’t mean that you need to take classes in person, or that you should only look at educational institutions in your immediate area — many institutions offer certification programs online.

Courses in a medical records technician course may include:

• Medical Ethics and Law
• Medical Termination
• Government Standards for Documentation in Healthcare
• Statistics
• Software Proficiency

When evaluating training programs, pay close attention to the fine print. Find out exactly how much tuition will cost, how much time you’ll need to dedicate to the course, and whether the program offers help with job placement. Most students will want to look for at least 3-4 options. Researching your choices will help you make a knowledgeable decision about your education.

You can also use the internet to find employment opportunities after you’ve completed your certification. It’s a good idea to look for local jobs before you finish your training; this will give you perspective about the job market, which can be helpful when you’re ready to send out applications.

Researching Medical Records Specialist Jobs Online

As discussed above, students should understand their options when looking for training programs. Employers typically look for medical records specialists with certifications. While a college degree can be helpful for finding employment — some employers require an associate’s degree, and other degrees can boost an applicant’s profile — many hospitals and doctor’s offices hire people who have a certification and a high school diploma (or GED).

By searching online, you can find a training program that fulfills these requirements. Many courses can be completed within a year, and some take less than six months. If you’re willing to compare tuition costs, coursework, and other factors, you can find a training program that works for you — and start an exciting new career in healthcare.