Health Records Clerk in New York Career Overview
As a Health Records Clerk, you play a vital role in the healthcare system, ensuring that patient information is accurately documented, maintained, and accessible. Your responsibilities revolve around managing health records and data associated with patient care, which includes:
Data Management: You are responsible for the organization and maintenance of patient files, both in physical and electronic formats. This ensures that vital health information is readily available for healthcare providers when needed.
Confidentiality and Compliance: Maintaining patient confidentiality is paramount. You adhere to regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) to protect sensitive patient information from unauthorized access.
Record Updating: You regularly update patient records to reflect changes in their status, treatments, or medical history, facilitating continuity of care.
Collaboration: You work closely with healthcare professionals, administrative staff, and IT teams to ensure seamless communication and flow of information within healthcare facilities.
Training and Support: You may assist in training new staff on health record management and software systems, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare operations.
Your role as a Health Records Clerk is essential in supporting healthcare providers in delivering quality care to patients. Accurate and organized medical records help in effective treatment planning and contribute to the overall operational success of healthcare organizations.
Health Records Clerk Salary in New York
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Health Records Clerk in New York
To pursue a career as a Health Records Clerk, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the relevant college degree programs:
Health Information Management (HIM)
This program involves the study of managing patient health information and medical records. It covers topics such as health data administration, privacy regulations, and health information systems.Health Information Technology (HIT)
This degree focuses on the technology aspect of health information, including electronic health records (EHR), data management, and information systems used in healthcare settings.Medical Office Administration
This program trains you in the administrative aspects of managing a medical office. It includes courses on medical terminology, billing, coding, and the legal aspects of healthcare.Medical Office Specialist
This degree provides a foundation in clerical and administrative tasks specific to a medical office. You will learn about patient management, appointment scheduling, and basic clinical procedures.Medical Receptionist
This program is designed to equip you with the skills needed to work as a receptionist in a medical environment. It covers essential topics such as patient intake, appointment coordination, and communication skills in a healthcare setting.
Completing any of these programs will prepare you for the role of a Health Records Clerk and enable you to handle various administrative tasks associated with patient health information.
Best Schools to become a Health Records Clerk in New York 2024
DeVry University-Illinois
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Western Governors University
Ivy Tech Community College
Guilford Technical Community College
Fayetteville Technical Community College
- Perform secretarial duties using specific knowledge of medical terminology and hospital, clinic, or laboratory procedures.
- Duties may include scheduling appointments, billing patients, and compiling and recording medical charts, reports, and correspondence.
Health Records Clerk Required Skills and Competencies in New York
Attention to Detail: You must possess a strong ability to focus on minute details to ensure accuracy in documenting and maintaining health records.
Organizational Skills: You'll need to effectively organize and manage multiple records, files, and tasks, ensuring all information is easily accessible and systematically arranged.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in using electronic health record (EHR) systems, typing, and general office software is essential. Familiarity with data entry and managing databases will be beneficial.
Communication Skills: Clear communication is vital for interacting with healthcare providers, patients, and other stakeholders. You should be able to convey information effectively both verbally and in written form.
Confidentiality Awareness: Understanding and adhering to HIPAA regulations and other privacy laws is critical. You must ensure that all patient information remains confidential and secure.
Problem-Solving Skills: You should be able to identify issues with records or systems and propose effective solutions promptly.
Time Management: Balancing multiple tasks efficiently is key, as you'll need to respond to urgent requests while also completing routine duties.
Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with other healthcare professionals and administrative staff is essential for maintaining an efficient workflow.
Flexibility and Adaptability: The healthcare environment can change rapidly. Being open to new processes, tools, and regulations will enhance your effectiveness in this role.
Customer Service Orientation: You should be prepared to assist patients and healthcare providers with inquiries regarding health records, demonstrating patience and professionalism.
Job Duties for Health Records Clerks
Answer telephones and direct calls to appropriate staff.
Complete insurance or other claim forms.
Schedule and confirm patient diagnostic appointments, surgeries, or medical consultations.
Accounting software
- Billing software
- Intuit QuickBooks
Medical software
- Epic Systems
- MEDITECH software
Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Health Records Clerk in New York
The job market for Health Records Clerks in New York reflects a strong demand fueled by several factors:
Increasing Healthcare Facilities: With a growing number of hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities in urban and rural areas, there is a heightened need for Health Records Clerks to manage patient information efficiently.
Technological Advancements: The transition to electronic health records (EHR) has created new roles and responsibilities within the field. Health Records Clerks are now essential for maintaining these systems, leading to increased job opportunities.
Aging Population: As the population ages, there is a higher demand for healthcare services, consequently boosting the need for administrative support roles, including Health Records Clerks.
Regulatory Compliance: The emphasis on patient privacy and data protection laws has increased the demand for professionals who can ensure compliance in record-keeping practices.
Growth Potential: The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that jobs in health information management, including Health Records Clerks, have a steady growth rate projected for the coming years, reflecting an ongoing need for skilled professionals in the field.
Geographical hotspots for Health Records Clerks in New York include:
New York City: The largest metropolitan area offers numerous healthcare institutions including major hospitals, specialty clinics, and research facilities. The concentration of these entities leads to a high volume of opportunities.
Long Island: This region has seen significant healthcare expansion, with several hospitals and health systems providing ample job prospects for clerks.
Westchester County: With a mix of urban and suburban healthcare facilities, Westchester County presents various roles for Health Records Clerks.
Upstate New York: Areas such as Albany, Syracuse, and Rochester are home to several healthcare providers, leading to growing job markets as these facilities expand services to meet community needs.
The overall outlook for Health Records Clerks in New York indicates a favorable job market filled with opportunities driven by advancements in healthcare technology and the increasing complexity of patient information management.
Top Related Careers to Health Records Clerk 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Health Records Clerk in New York
American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
- Website: www.ahima.org
- Offers resources on health information management, professional certification, and ongoing education opportunities.
National Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (NAHDI)
- Website: www.nahdi.org
- Focuses on professional development for health record professionals and provides training resources and certification information.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
- Website: www.cms.gov
- Provides essential information regarding health care policies, regulations, and the importance of accurate health records in reimbursement processes.
New York State Department of Health
- Website: www.health.ny.gov
- Offers information on public health policies, regulations, and resources related to health information and record-keeping in New York.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
- Website: www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/health-information-technologists-and-medical-registrars.htm
- Provides valuable data on job outlook, salary information, and educational requirements for health records clerks and related positions.
National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS)
- Website: www.cdc.gov/nchs
- Offers access to health data and statistics, which can enhance your understanding of health record management and data accuracy.
The Health Information Management Society (HIMSS)
- Website: www.himss.org
- Focuses on the health IT sector, offering resources about health information technology's impact on health records and patient care.
Community Colleges and Technical Schools in New York
- Many institutions offer programs in health information management. Search for local colleges that provide certification programs or associate degrees in this field.
LinkedIn Learning
- Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
- Offers online courses related to health information management, medical coding, and record-keeping practices.
Books for Further Reading
- “Health Information Management: Concepts, Principles, and Practice” by Geraldine McGinty and P. Craig MacMillan – A comprehensive text on health data management.
- “Fundamentals of Health Information Management” by M. K. Heinrich and D. D. Smith – A resource designed for students entering the field.
Consider visiting these resources for more information regarding certification programs, best practices in health records management, and professional development opportunities in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Health Records Clerk in New York
What is the primary role of a Health Records Clerk?
A Health Records Clerk manages and maintains patient records, ensuring that all information is accurately entered, updated, and stored. This includes handling medical charts, processing admissions and discharges, and safeguarding patient confidentiality.What qualifications do I need to become a Health Records Clerk in New York?
Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some positions may prefer candidates with an associate's degree in health information technology or related fields. Certification as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) can enhance job prospects.What skills are necessary for a Health Records Clerk?
Essential skills include attention to detail, strong organizational capabilities, proficiency with computer software and electronic health record systems, and excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.Where do Health Records Clerks typically work?
You will find Health Records Clerks in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and private practices. Some may also work for insurance companies or health-related government agencies.Is there room for advancement in this career?
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. Health Records Clerks can progress to roles such as Health Information Manager, Compliance Officer, or Medical Coding Specialist, especially with additional education and experience.What is the salary range for Health Records Clerks in New York?
Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and employer. As of October 2023, Health Records Clerks in New York typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually.What are the typical working hours for this position?
Most Health Records Clerks work full-time, though part-time positions are also available. Hours may vary, with some clerks working weekends or evenings, especially in hospital settings.How does technology impact the job of a Health Records Clerk?
Technology plays a significant role, as many records are now maintained electronically. You will need to be familiar with electronic health record (EHR) systems, data management software, and general computer skills to succeed in this field.What are the main challenges faced by Health Records Clerks?
Common challenges include managing a high volume of paperwork, ensuring accuracy in record-keeping, adapting to new technology, and maintaining patient confidentiality and compliance with regulations such as HIPAA.What additional certifications can benefit my career?
Certifications such as the Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) or the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) can enhance your qualifications and open more career opportunities within the healthcare information management field.