Medical Records Clerk

The Medical Records Clerk is the backbone of an efficient healthcare system, ensuring the accuracy and organization of confidential patient medical information. Their responsibilities span the entire patient care journey, contributing to quality medical decision-making, effective communication among healthcare providers, and compliance with regulations.

What Does a Medical Records Clerk Do?

Medical Records Clerks perform a variety of tasks that contribute to the smooth functioning of healthcare facilities. Their duties include:

• Maintaining and updating patient health records, both physical and electronic
• Reviewing and processing medical documents, such as test results, radiology reports, and physician notes
• Indexing and filing medical records according to established systems and procedures
• Retrieving and releasing medical information in response to requests from authorized individuals, such as patients, physicians, and insurance companies
• Maintaining the confidentiality and security of protected health information (PHI)
• Using medical terminology and coding systems to ensure the accuracy and consistency of medical records

How to Become a Medical Records Clerk

Becoming a Medical Records Clerk typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education in health information management or a related field, such as medical coding. Some employers may also require certification from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Online courses can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to enter or advance in the field of medical records. Courses in medical terminology, health information management, and medical coding can provide learners with the foundational knowledge and skills required for success. Online courses offer flexibility and accessibility, allowing learners to study at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Career Growth and Advancement

Medical Records Clerks can advance their careers by pursuing further education and certification. AHIMA offers a variety of certification programs, including the Certified Medical Records Technician (CMRT) and the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credentials. With experience and additional qualifications, Medical Records Clerks can move into supervisory or management roles, such as Health Information Manager or Director of Health Information Management.

Transferable Skills

The skills developed as a Medical Records Clerk are highly transferable to other healthcare professions. These skills include:

• Medical terminology and coding
• Knowledge of health information systems
• Data entry and management
• Attention to detail
• Confidentiality

These skills can be valuable in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and insurance companies.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The day-to-day responsibilities of a Medical Records Clerk can vary depending on the size and type of healthcare facility. However, some common responsibilities include:

• Processing and filing medical records
• Responding to requests for medical information
• Updating patient records
• Maintaining the confidentiality of patient information
• Working with other healthcare professionals to ensure the accuracy and completeness of medical records

Challenges

Medical Records Clerks face a number of challenges in their work. These challenges include:

• The need to maintain accuracy and confidentiality in all aspects of their work
• The need to keep up with changes in medical technology and regulations
• The potential for stress and burnout due to the high volume of work and the need to meet deadlines

Projects

Medical Records Clerks may be involved in a variety of projects, such as:

• Implementing new electronic health record (EHR) systems
• Developing and maintaining medical record policies and procedures
• Conducting audits of medical records to ensure compliance with regulations
• Educating patients and staff on medical record privacy and security

Personal Growth Opportunities

Medical Records Clerks have the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in their careers. They can develop their skills in medical terminology, coding, and health information management. They can also develop their leadership and management skills. Medical Records Clerks who are committed to their professional development can advance their careers and make a significant contribution to the healthcare field.

Personality Traits and Interests

Successful Medical Records Clerks typically have the following personality traits and interests:

• Attention to detail
• Accuracy
• Confidentiality
• Organization
• Communication skills
• Interest in healthcare

Self-Guided Projects

Individuals interested in becoming a Medical Records Clerk can complete a number of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for this role. These projects include:

• Taking online courses in medical terminology, health information management, and medical coding
• Volunteering at a local hospital or clinic
• Shadowing a Medical Records Clerk
• Reading books and articles on medical records

Online Courses

As mentioned earlier, online courses can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to enter or advance in the field of medical records. Online courses can provide learners with the foundational knowledge and skills required for success, including medical terminology, health information management, and medical coding. Additionally, online courses offer flexibility and accessibility, allowing learners to study at their own pace and on their own schedule.

While online courses alone may not be sufficient to fully prepare someone for a career as a Medical Records Clerk, they can provide a strong foundation and increase the likelihood of success in this field.