Health Information Specialist

Duties & Responsibilities

• Demonstrates a complete understanding of the release of information process, including Rhode Island General Laws, Federal Regulations, Public Health Laws, HIPAA Privacy Rules and PCHC policies and procedures as they relate to obtaining or disclosing medical, dental, behavior health and billing information related to patients’ treatment and services provided by PCHC.
• Handles all requests and inquiries for patient information; disperses the information with accountability to all regulatory entities and according to policy and procedure, including:
• Reviews authorizations for release of information and validates that it is complete, accurate and in compliance with HIPAA Privacy Regulations, Rhode Island General Laws, Federal Public Health Laws and PCHC policies and procedures.
• If the request is invalid, returns the request with an explanation and requests a valid authorization.
• Analyzes requests for health information, abstracts pertinent portions of health records, copies, mails and/or releases in accordance with PCHC policies and procedures to safeguard patient confidentiality.
• Screens health records for any confidential information that is not covered under a general authorization.
• Prepares and documents invoicing for requests requiring payment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Rhode Island State and Federal laws/regulations and HIPAA Privacy regulations regarding release of information required.
• Analytical abilities and good judgment necessary to evaluate, often under pressure, the legal rights of requesting parties.
• Excellent communication skills required.
• Presentation skills preferred.
• Medical terminology required.
• Proficient computer skills are required including working with Microsoft word and windows based application for data entry.
• Excel and PowerPoint experience preferred.
• Ability to communicate with people of various diverse backgrounds in a sensitive and compassionate way.

Education

• A high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of a two year program in Health Information or equivalent experience typically acquired by two years current experience working in Health Information required.