Health information systems coordinators handle various activities of health care administration departments. They coordinate and complete medical record documentation. They do everything from participating in audits to implementing monitoring systems to reviewing charts to ensure accurate coding of diagnoses, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Role
Health information systems coordinators closely evaluate medical records for new admissions or readmissions. They maintain the patient’s clinical record throughout their entire stay at the facility. They oversee the transcription of health care provider’s orders for accuracy and completeness. They manage electronic and hybrid clinical records within health information management systems. They uphold the confidentiality of the patient records by protecting sensitive information. They retrieve patient records and only release to authorized personnel.
Health information systems coordinators review clinical records to verify established accuracy standards are met. This includes the patient’s diagnosis, treatment, out come, demographic and identifiable information. They monitor records for potential omissions and initiate follow-up requests for information involving the relevant program managers. For serious and ongoing programs, they involve administrators and quality improvement process supervisors. They regularly thin and organize charts according to established policies. They are responsible for the storage and destruction of records following regulatory guidelines.
Required Skills and Competencies
Most health information systems coordinators will have a two- or four-year degree related to health care management, systems administration or information technology management. They must maintain knowledge of electronic health records and health information applications. They must possess strong analytical, communication, attention to detail and team-oriented skills. They need the ability to compile, interpret and present clinical and statistical data. They must be comfortable with politely challenging and requesting health care providers to thoroughly complete records.
They need knowledge of the legal aspects of medical terminology, health care documentation, and state and federal regulatory compliance practices. Health information systems coordinators must maintain knowledge of changing privacy and security regulations related to the access, release and confidentiality of patient information. Upon time of hire, health information systems coordinators should possess a basic working knowledge of standards like the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) coding processes.
Work Conditions
Health information systems coordinators will be constantly exposed to complex patient charts and records. Their work will be dictated by established state protocols, federal guidelines and company policies. There is a constant potential for exposure to bio-hazardous waste and blood borne pathogens. Work is sedentary because health information systems coordinators are at their desks most of the time. However, they are constantly reaching and handing reports between health care providers.
Their visual work revolves around documentation and computer screens. The use of repetitive arm and hand movement is necessary for frequent file and keyboard use. Their physical environment is usually a noisy and busy medical office. Here, they must quickly, accurately and comprehensively read and understand medical reports, records and terminology. There is usually an element of mental stress because health information systems coordinators have strict quality, accuracy and deadline protocols.
Related Resource: Jobs in Health Information Systems
Health information systems coordinators may advance their careers into denials management, quality improvement health care IT administration and office staff supervision..