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Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist

4.3 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Based on 1,648 ratings
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Valerie Boyd- Holsinger

The Electronic Health Records Program is designed to provide students with the skills necessary for entry-level positions in a medical office, hospital, insurance office, or any type of medical facility utilizing EHR. Students will be exposed to real-world exercises using software to create patient records, lab reports, notes, and code setting. Additionally, students will gain a solid understanding of the legal aspects of patient confidentiality and disclosure of medical records. The completion of a certificate-level program does not typically qualify a student for employment. Completion of this program may assist students who have no previous medical experience or work-related experience improve their chances for entry-level employment.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Electronic health records
  • Medical billing & coding for the ehr
  • Anatomy & physiology
  • Medical terminology
  • Medical law and ethics
  • Health insurance in the united states

Syllabus

Unit 1: Welcome: Getting Started

Why take this course? The job outlook and Salary Range for Electronic Medical Records Specialists is expected to increase 13% through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The agency said about 27,800 jobs will be added. Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) earn between $21,000- $63,000 per year.

What Medical Records and Health Information Technicians Do

Medical records and health information technicians, commonly referred to as health information technicians, organize and manage health information data. They ensure that the information maintains its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security in both paper files and electronic systems. They use various classification systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement purposes, for databases and registries, and to maintain patients’ medical and treatment histories.

Certification

Eligibility Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED/high school equivalency

  • Successfully completed a program that included electronic health records training within the last 5 years

About the Test:

  • Testing will take place at a PSI Testing Center near you.

  • You will need to present valid identification.

  • Test must be completed in one continuous session.

CEHRS Certification Exam Details:

  • 100 questions, 10 pretest questions

  • Exam time: 1 hour, 50 minutes

GETTING YOUR RESULTS

  • NHA will officially post your certificate results to your account page within two days of taking the test, and your printed certificate will arrive within two weeks.If you take the written exam, results will be posted within two weeks on your personal account page.

REGISTRATION

  • Log into (https://www.nhanow.com/)

  • Under Organization Type select: Registering Individually

  • Agree to Terms and Conditions

Read more

In Unit 2 will introduce you to the major stages in the development of the nation's health care system their laws and regulations and how they impact us in the United States and how other health care system around the world differ. Unit 3 will provide you with an introduction to understanding billing and coding, introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, with an understanding of Medical Terminology. Unit 4 will review Medical Terminology and Anatomy. Unit 5 will provided you with the Electronic Health Records Theory & Application with a focus on EHR architecture, hardware, software, networks, and practical application. Unit 6 is the Wrap Up.

Student will gain an understanding of the health care system and be able to explain the historical events that took place that currently form our current health care system.

The HITECH Act, is likely to be a highly popular topic in the next year for every member of the healthcare community. That includes you, whether you're a healthcare professional or provider working to save lives or on the opposite end, as a caretaker or patient relying on their expertise. Regardless of where you reside in the healthcare community, you need to be informed about HITECH in order to be prepared in your unique role. This lecture will provide you with an understanding of the HITECH Act.

Student will be able to explain the different types of health plans in the US.

Student will be able to explain the Federal and State plans in the health care system.

Student will learn the basic health care law as it pertains to EHR.

Lectures 9-27 introduces the student to basic Medical Terminology Parts and Terms and learning the Body Systems.

Student will be able to identify work parts and define medical terms.

Brief Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

Student will be introduced to the Anatomical Terms, Planes, Abdominal Division

Student will be introduced to Homeostasis

Student will be introduced to the Cells

Student will be introduced to the Tissue.

Student will be introduced to the Skeletal System

Student will be introduced to the Muscular System

Student will be introduced to the Integumentary System

Student will be introduced to the Nervous System

Student will be introduced to the Special Senses

Student will be introduced to the Endocrine System

Student will be introduced to the Cardiovascular System

Student will be introduced to the Respiratory System

Student will be introduced to the Lymphatic and Immune System

Student will be introduced to the Gastrointestinal System

Student will be introduced to the Urinary System

Student will be introduced to the Reproductive System

Lecture will introduce students to electronic health records with a focus on the history of EHR.

Student will learn the importance of EHR implementation

Student will be able to define and explain the EHR standards and functions

Students will be able to list the major purposes for a health care record

Students will be able to describe the general workflow that is part of a patents visit management in an EHR environment.

Students will be able to indicate how consents, notices, authorizations for release of information, and how advance directives are incorporated into an EHR.

Students will be able to describe the office workflow process that will assure that the summary lists in each patient's EHR are reviewed and updated routinely to maintain their accuracy, completeness, and currency.

Students will be able to differentiate structured data from unstructured data by providing examples of each.

Students will be able to identify common applications associated with an electronic practice--management system (PMS)

Students will be able to identify specific capabilities that a "certified" EHR must have in order to create catch medication errors, list the elements included in a standard medication order format, distinguish a drug-terminology from a drug-reference information system and to explain what causes medication alerts to be triggered within an EHR or computerized provider order entry (CPOE) system.

Students will be able to describe the general workflow for practice personnel in documenting communication in an EHR.

Students will be able to differentiate between a classification system and a nomenclature.

Students will be able to define terms and key concepts used in relation to the research process.

Students will be able to describe the reasons supporting the development of both types of records and name several alternative for maintaining/storing a PHR.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of the U.S. healthcare system's historical development, which is helpful for understanding the context of EHR implementation and its impact on healthcare delivery
Includes training on EHR software, which offers practical experience in creating patient records, lab reports, and notes, which is essential for daily tasks
Covers medical law and ethics, which is crucial for understanding patient confidentiality and the legal aspects of handling medical records in an EHR environment
Explores the HITECH Act, which is relevant to understanding the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding electronic health records and data privacy
Requires students to pass a certification exam at a PSI Testing Center, which may require travel and scheduling considerations
Includes a review of anatomy and physiology, which may be too basic for learners with prior experience in healthcare or related fields

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Reviews summary

Foundation for ehr and cehrs prep

According to students, this course provides a solid foundation and a good introduction to the world of Electronic Health Records (EHR) and related concepts. Learners find it helpful for getting started in the field and appreciate the coverage of essential topics like medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and healthcare law, including HIPAA/HITECH. While many feel it's a valuable starting point, a significant number of students note that the course content, particularly in areas like anatomy and software practice, can sometimes lack depth and may require supplemental resources, especially if preparing for the NHA CEHRS certification exam. The course seems best suited for those with no prior medical experience seeking an entry-level understanding.
Addresses essential areas like terminology and law.
"The sections on medical terminology and healthcare law were very helpful."
"I learned a lot about HIPAA, HITECH, and the legal aspects of EHR."
"It covers all the basic topics you need to know to start working with EHR."
Provides a good introduction to EHR concepts.
"This course gave me a solid foundation in understanding electronic health records."
"I found the course to be a great starting point for learning about the EHR field."
"It's a good introduction for anyone new to healthcare admin and EHR systems."
Software simulation is limited or basic.
"The software practice was a bit clunky and didn't feel like real-world use."
"The simulation part was okay for getting a feel, but very limited."
"Needed more hands-on practice with actual EHR software."
Some areas could benefit from more detail.
"I felt the anatomy and physiology section was too brief and rushed."
"Could use more in-depth coverage on certain technical aspects of EHR."
"The information is pretty basic; don't expect deep dives into complex topics."
Helpful start but requires extra study for exam.
"It's helpful for the NHA CEHRS exam but you will definitely need other study materials."
"This course alone isn't enough to pass the certification test, but it gets you started."
"Prepared me somewhat for the exam, but I had to find additional resources for practice questions."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist with these activities:
Review Medical Terminology Basics
Strengthen your understanding of medical terminology to better grasp the concepts and vocabulary used throughout the course.
Browse courses on Medical Terminology
Show steps
  • Review common prefixes, suffixes, and root words.
  • Practice building and defining medical terms.
  • Take a practice quiz on medical terminology.
Review Anatomy and Physiology Fundamentals
Reinforce your knowledge of anatomy and physiology to understand how body systems function and relate to electronic health records.
Browse courses on Human Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review the major body systems and their functions.
  • Study anatomical terms and directional terms.
  • Complete practice questions on anatomy and physiology.
Read 'Medical Terminology: A Short Course'
Supplement your understanding of medical terminology with a comprehensive textbook that provides detailed explanations and examples.
View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read assigned chapters on medical terminology.
  • Complete the exercises and quizzes in the book.
  • Review key terms and concepts.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice EHR Data Entry
Improve your proficiency in entering data into an EHR system by practicing with sample patient records.
Show steps
  • Obtain access to a practice EHR system or simulator.
  • Enter data from sample patient charts into the EHR.
  • Review your entries for accuracy and completeness.
  • Repeat the process with different types of patient data.
Create a Glossary of EHR Terms
Solidify your understanding of EHR-related terminology by creating a comprehensive glossary of key terms and definitions.
Show steps
  • Identify key terms related to EHR systems and processes.
  • Research and define each term accurately.
  • Organize the terms alphabetically in a glossary format.
  • Share your glossary with classmates for feedback.
Read 'Electronic Health Records: An Audit and Internal Control Guide'
Deepen your understanding of EHR security and compliance by studying a guide focused on auditing and internal controls.
View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read assigned chapters on EHR auditing and controls.
  • Identify key risks and vulnerabilities in EHR systems.
  • Summarize best practices for EHR security and compliance.
Develop an EHR Implementation Plan
Apply your knowledge of EHR systems by creating a detailed implementation plan for a hypothetical medical practice.
Show steps
  • Research the requirements for EHR implementation.
  • Assess the needs of a hypothetical medical practice.
  • Develop a detailed implementation plan, including timelines and budgets.
  • Present your plan to classmates for feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Medical Records Technician
A Medical Records Technician organizes and manages health information data, ensuring its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security. This course will assist in gaining skills related to creating patient records, lab reports, and notes, which is directly applicable to the daily tasks of a Medical Records Technician. Furthermore, the course provides insight into the legal aspects of patient confidentiality and medical record disclosure, essential knowledge for ensuring compliance and data protection in this role. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Records Technician
Health Information Specialist
A Health Information Specialist is responsible for maintaining and protecting patient data and records. This course's focus on electronic health records (EHR), medical law, and ethics directly aligns with the responsibilities of a Health Information Specialist. The course helps build understanding of EHR architecture, hardware, software, and networks, as well as practical applications, providing a solid basis for managing electronic health information systems. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Information Specialist
Medical Secretary
A Medical Secretary provides administrative support in a medical office, including managing patient records and scheduling appointments. The course’s focus on electronic health records, medical terminology, and the basics of healthcare law helps build essential skills for this role. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Secretary
Medical Coder
A Medical Coder assigns codes to diagnoses and procedures for billing and insurance purposes. The course includes elements in medical billing and coding for EHR, which is directly relevant to the work of a Medical Coder. Students will have exposure to real-world exercises using software to code settings, and a solid understanding of the legal aspects of medical records. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Coder
Medical Biller
A Medical Biller is responsible for submitting claims to insurance companies and ensuring proper reimbursement for healthcare services. Since this course includes medical billing content for EHR, it will be directly applicable to the work of a Medical Biller. Understanding health insurance in the United States, also covered in the course, helps those in this role navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Biller
Clinical Data Analyst
A Clinical Data Analyst examines and interprets clinical data to improve healthcare outcomes. The training on EHR architecture and software covered in this course helps build skills in managing and analyzing electronic health data. This course also focuses on the historical evolution of health care systems. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Clinical Data Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Data Analyst
Healthcare Compliance Officer
A Healthcare Compliance Officer ensures that a healthcare organization adheres to laws and regulations. The course covers medical law and ethics, along with the legal aspects of patient confidentiality and disclosure of medical records. This knowledge is helpful for a Healthcare Compliance Officer to understand and enforce healthcare regulations. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Healthcare Compliance Officer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Compliance Officer
Health Information Manager
Health Information Managers are responsible for the overall management of health information systems. Individuals in this role typically require at least a bachelor's degree. The course's emphasis on EHR architecture, hardware, software, networks, and practical application helps build a strong foundation for managing electronic health records. One who seeks a career as a Health Information Manager may benefit from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Information Manager
Medical Office Manager
A Medical Office Manager oversees the daily operations of a medical office. The course provides a foundation in electronic health records (EHR), medical billing and coding, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, medical law and ethics, and health insurance. These are all key components in running a successful medical office. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Medical Office Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Office Manager
Patient Care Coordinator
A Patient Care Coordinator helps patients navigate the healthcare system. The training in medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology, as well as familiarity with EHR, are useful for understanding patient records and communicating with healthcare providers. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Patient Care Coordinator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Patient Care Coordinator
Insurance Claims Processor
An Insurance Claims Processor reviews and processes medical insurance claims. With a focus on the US healthcare system and health insurance in the United States, this course may prepare one for work processing claims. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Insurance Claims Processor
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare Administrators plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. A master's degree is typically required. The course provides an introduction to health systems and the historical evolution of the current system, along with medical law and ethics. This information is useful for understanding the healthcare landscape and compliance requirements. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Healthcare Administrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Public Health Educator
A Public Health Educator promotes wellness by developing and implementing health programs. This course focuses on understanding the healthcare system and its historical evolution, which helps offer perspective on public health challenges and initiatives. An advanced degree is typically required. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Educator
Transcriptionist
A Transcriptionist converts audio recordings of medical professionals into written reports. The course's emphasis on medical terminology helps Transcriptionists accurately transcribe medical dictation. Additionally, knowledge of anatomy and physiology aids in understanding the context of medical reports. The course's medical terminology and anatomy syllabus may be useful for a transcriptionist. The course may be useful when seeking entry-level work as a Transcriptionist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Transcriptionist
Pharmacy Technician
A Pharmacy Technician assists pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing customer service. The medical terminology component of this course helps enhance communication with pharmacists and understanding of medication orders. This course may be useful. The course may improve one's chances for entry-level employment in this position.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmacy Technician

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist.
Cover image
Alter Ego
Save
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to medical terminology. It is particularly helpful for students who need to build a strong foundation in the language of medicine. The book covers essential prefixes, suffixes, and root words, and it includes numerous exercises and examples to reinforce learning. It is commonly used as a textbook in introductory medical terminology courses.
Alter Ego: A Novel
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.3 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
7 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Valerie Boyd- Holsinger
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of the U.S. healthcare system's historical development, which is helpful for understanding the context of EHR implementation and its impact on healthcare delivery
Includes training on EHR software, which offers practical experience in creating patient records, lab reports, and notes, which is essential for daily tasks
Covers medical law and ethics, which is crucial for understanding patient confidentiality and the legal aspects of handling medical records in an EHR environment
Explores the HITECH Act, which is relevant to understanding the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding electronic health records and data privacy
Requires students to pass a certification exam at a PSI Testing Center, which may require travel and scheduling considerations
Includes a review of anatomy and physiology, which may be too basic for learners with prior experience in healthcare or related fields
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