Electronic Health Records Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital healthcare, the demand for Electronic Health Records Specialists is growing exponentially.

As technology permeates every facet of healthcare, the need for proficient individuals who can navigate, optimize, and secure our electronic health records systems is increasing dramatically.

But let’s dive a little deeper: What’s really expected from an Electronic Health Records Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager framing the perfect candidate profile,
• Or just curious about the inner workings of electronic health records management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we provide a comprehensive and customizable Electronic Health Records Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Electronic Health Records Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Electronic Health Records Specialists are responsible for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of patients’ health information.

They handle sensitive data and assist healthcare professionals in managing patient care through secure, updated and accessible digital records.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Compile, process, and maintain patients’ electronic health records in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements
• Review patients’ records for accuracy and completeness, and correct any errors
• Use classification software to assign clinical codes for insurance reimbursement and data analysis
• Electronically record data for collection, storage, analysis, retrieval, and reporting
• Protect patients’ health information for confidentiality, authorized access for direct patient care, and other appropriate uses
• Interact with clinical staff and doctors to clarify diagnoses or to obtain additional information
• Process patient admission or discharge documents
• Conduct audits and coding reviews to ensure all documentation is accurate and precise
• Ensure all EHR software is up-to-date and fully functional, liaising with IT staff as needed

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Electronic Health Records (EHR) Specialist to manage, organize, and maintain patients’ healthcare information in electronic format.

The EHR Specialist responsibilities include entering patient information into digital systems, ensuring data accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with state and federal regulations.

Our ideal candidate is proficient with EHR software, has a strong understanding of medical terminologies, and is familiar with data management procedures and healthcare regulations.

Ultimately, the role of the EHR Specialist is to ensure that our organization’s electronic health records system is efficient, secure, and supports the delivery of high-quality patient care.

 

Responsibilities

• Enter and maintain patient data into EHR systems accurately.
• Ensure all electronic records comply with policies and regulations.
• Train healthcare staff on the use of EHR systems.
• Respond to requests for patient records, ensuring all releases comply with confidentiality laws.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy and security.
• Assist in the development and implementation of new health information systems.
• Collaborate with healthcare providers and IT staff to improve EHR usability.
• Stay current with the latest technologies and regulations in health information management.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an EHR Specialist or in a similar role.
• Experience with EHR systems and software.
• Knowledge of medical terminologies and healthcare regulations.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency in data entry.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to data accuracy and patient privacy.
• Good communication and training skills.
• Certification in health information management (RHIT or RHIA) is preferred.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Electronic Health Records Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting within a healthcare facility. Some remote work may be possible.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Health Information Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Electronic Health Records Specialist Do?

An Electronic Health Records Specialist works in the healthcare industry, often for hospitals, clinics, or other medical facilities.

They are responsible for the management and accuracy of patient data, ensuring that this information is properly stored, organized, and retrieved when necessary.

They work closely with healthcare professionals and administrative staff to input new data, update existing patient records, and track patient outcomes.

This role is essential in ensuring that healthcare providers have the most accurate and up-to-date information when making diagnoses and treatment plans.

Their job includes ensuring that the electronic health records systems they use are operating effectively and efficiently, often troubleshooting any technical issues and implementing updates as needed.

Electronic Health Records Specialists are also responsible for maintaining patient confidentiality in line with healthcare laws and regulations.

They may also be tasked with training other staff on how to properly use and navigate electronic health records systems.

In some cases, Electronic Health Records Specialists will also be involved in data analysis, helping to identify trends and improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.

This role requires a deep understanding of both healthcare and information technology.

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An Electronic Health Records Specialist should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Knowledge of healthcare terminology and regulations to accurately record and manage patient data.
• Proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) software to enter, update, and retrieve patient information.
• Detail-oriented skills to ensure data accuracy and integrity in the health records.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with healthcare providers, medical coders, and other professionals.
• Understanding of medical billing and coding processes to assist in the administrative tasks.
• Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues with the EHR systems and maintain operational efficiency.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to healthcare regulations such as HIPAA.
• Organizational skills to manage large volumes of data and patient records effectively.

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Electronic Health Records Specialists typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, clinic, or a medical office.

They may also gain relevant experience in roles such as Medical Biller, Health Information Technician, or Medical Coder, which provide them a solid foundation for understanding health records and medical terminologies.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have worked with multiple electronic health records systems and have a deep understanding of the healthcare industry’s regulatory environment.

They might have developed their technical skills and knowledge in previous roles as Electronic Health Records Technicians or Health Information Technicians.

Those with over 5 years of experience in this field may have some leadership or management experience, having supervised a team of health information technicians or managed a health information department.

They may be ready for higher roles such as Health Information Manager or Director of Health Information Management.

Additionally, many employers prefer or require Electronic Health Records Specialists to hold a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) certification, which both require a certain amount of professional experience.

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Electronic Health Records Specialists generally require a high school diploma or equivalent as the minimum educational requirement.

However, many employers prefer candidates who have completed a postsecondary certificate or associate degree program in health information technology (HIT), which provides an in-depth understanding of electronic health records, medical coding, and health information law and ethics.

These programs often include coursework in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, health data requirements and standards, clinical classification and coding systems, data analysis, healthcare reimbursement methods, database security and management, and quality assurance methods.

For those looking to further enhance their qualifications, obtaining certification such as the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) is often beneficial.

This certification demonstrates proficiency in electronic health records management, and the ability to maintain the integrity and protect the privacy of patient information.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the constantly evolving nature of healthcare technology.

This can involve attending workshops, seminars, or courses that focus on new software or updates to existing electronic health records systems.

While not a requirement, work experience in a healthcare setting can be advantageous.

It provides practical knowledge of the healthcare environment and insights into the application of electronic health records in a real-world setting.

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Salary Expectations

An Electronic Health Records Specialist earns an average salary of $37,992 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary based on factors such as experience, educational qualifications, and the geographical location of the job.

Additional compensation may include benefits like healthcare and retirement plans.

 

Electronic Health Records Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Electronic Health Records Specialist need?

An Electronic Health Records Specialist should have strong technical skills, including proficiency in specific electronic health record systems.

They need a deep understanding of medical terminology, healthcare operations, and data management.

Good attention to detail, organization skills, and the ability to handle sensitive data confidentially are also essential.

 

Do Electronic Health Records Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Electronic Health Records Specialists usually require an associate degree or certificate in health information technology or a related field.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.

A Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) certification can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Electronic Health Records Specialist resume?

Look for a solid educational background in health information technology, including any special certifications.

Practical experience with electronic health record systems, data management, and medical coding is highly desirable.

Also, pay attention to their ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.

 

What qualities make a good Electronic Health Records Specialist?

A good Electronic Health Records Specialist is detail-oriented and meticulous, ensuring that patient records are accurate and complete.

They should have excellent technical skills and the ability to adapt to different EHR systems.

Strong communication skills are also essential, as they often have to interact with healthcare professionals to clarify or obtain information.

 

What are the daily duties of an Electronic Health Records Specialist?

On a typical day, an Electronic Health Records Specialist might input patient data into EHR systems, check records for accuracy, update patient information, and respond to requests for health records.

They also monitor security and privacy of health records, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations.

They may also communicate with healthcare providers or insurance companies to clarify or verify information.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Electronic Health Records Specialist?

Hiring an Electronic Health Records Specialist can be challenging due to the specific technical skills and knowledge required for the role.

However, investing in recruitment strategies that focus on these key qualifications and providing competitive salaries can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the role of an Electronic Health Records Specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing health records.

It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one patient record at a time.

Armed with our definitive Electronic Health Records Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for creating meticulously tailored job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient record is a part of the bigger picture in healthcare.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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