Health Info Release Info Specialist

About the role

Processes requests for protected health information in accordance with federal and state regulations, organizational policies and patient confidentiality standards. Maintains responsibility for the timely, accurate, and compliant release and logging of patient health information while protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and security of health records. Serves as the primary point of contact for BTNRH patients and families, providers, attorneys, insurers, and other requestors regarding health information requests and compliance with disclosure requirements.

Schedule

• Monday-Friday 8a-5p (1 hour lunch) or 8:30a-5p (30 min lunch)
• In-office setting

Major responsibilities & duties

• Receives, reviews, validates and processes requests for medical records from patients, healthcare providers, attorneys, insurance companies, and other authorized requestors. Follows established department protocols and procedures for release of information.
• Ensures all release disclosures of protected health information (PHI) comply with HIPAA, state regulations, and organizational policies. Maintains confidentiality of PHI and safeguard data.
• Utilize electronic medical record (EMR) system and release of information module to locate and process patient health information for release requests.
• Prioritizes requests based on regulatory requirements and department turnaround standards.
• Responds to inquiries regarding release of information procedures, fees, and request status.
• Delivers exceptional customer service by serving as primary contact for patients, families, providers, and other requesters regarding medical records, release of information, and related requests. Communicates in a clear, professional, and positive manner while addressing inquiries, facilitating requests and resolving concerns effectively and efficiently.
• Processes invoices and collect payments for medical record requests in accordance with established fee schedules.
• Works collaboratively with clinical, administrative, and legal departments to ensure the appropriate handling and resolution of health information disclosure requests.
• Scans, indexes, and maintains electronic documents in the electronic medical record (EMR) ensuring proper organization and record integrity.
• Manages high call volumes and inquiries, assist patients and authorized requestors, resolve concerns, provide guidance regarding documentation requirements, and ensure timely, accurate and professional resolution of requests.
• Participates in continuous process improvement initiatives to enhance release of information (ROI) processes, operational efficiency, and overall customer service experience.
• Manages updates and maintenance of deceased patient records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with organizational policies.
• Enters and maintains patient information in state databases as required, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and regulatory compliance.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Knowledge of HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules and the ability to interpret and apply federal and state regulations, as well as organizational policies, governing the disclosing health information.
• Knowledge of medical record documentation and healthcare terminology.
• Ability to understand authorizations, subpoenas, court orders, and legal requests.
• Maintain a high level of accuracy by paying close attention to detail and adhering to established standards, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent organization and time-management skills with the ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities and tasks simultaneously with high degree of accuracy while maintaining set productivity and quality standards.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively interact with patients, families, clinicians, and customers.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and handle confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency with electronic medical record systems, document imaging systems, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to perform work independently and contribute effectively within a team-oriented environment, adapting to changing priorities in a fast-paced setting.

Required qualifications

• High school diploma or the equivalent required.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications required.

Preferred qualifications

• Minimum of two years' experience working in a Health Information Department, hospital or doctor's office, with knowledge of medical record practices and HIPAA regulations as it applies to medical record disclosures preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.