Health Information Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of modern medicine and advanced technology, the demand for Health Information Specialists has become more significant than ever.

Healthcare continues to evolve, and with every advancement, there is a growing need for skilled professionals who can manage, organize, and protect our health information systems.

But let’s dive a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a Health Information Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes operations of health information management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Health Information Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve into it.

Health Information Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Health Information Specialists manage and organize health information data.

They ensure its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security in both paper and electronic systems.

They use various classification systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement purposes, for databases and registries, and to maintain patients’ medical and treatment histories.

Health Information Specialists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Compile, process, and maintain medical records of hospital and clinic patients in a manner consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements of the health care system
• Process, maintain, compile, and report patient information for health requirements and standards
• Use classification software to assign clinical codes for reimbursement and data analysis
• Electronically record data for collection, storage, analysis, retrieval, and reporting
• Protect patients’ health information for confidentiality, authorized access for treatment, and data security
• Audit patient records for compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Assist in the development and implementation of health information management policies and procedures
• Prepare and present reports on patient data to assist health care providers in patient care management

 

Health Information Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a meticulous and professional Health Information Specialist to join our healthcare team.

The Health Information Specialist will be responsible for managing patient health information, coding information for insurance purposes, maintaining patient records accurately and ensuring all regulations are followed to maintain patient confidentiality.

The ideal candidate will have experience in health informatics, a keen eye for detail, and a deep understanding of medical terminology, coding, and classification systems.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and organize patient health information data.
• Ensure all health information is correct and accurate.
• Code patient diagnoses and procedures for insurance billing.
• Monitor and update electronic health records (EHRs).
• Ensure confidentiality and security of patient data.
• Communicate with healthcare providers to clarify diagnoses or to obtain additional information.
• Follow regulations regarding patient information and confidentiality.
• Process and submit health insurance claims.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest healthcare regulations and procedures.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Health Information Specialist, Medical Biller or similar role in healthcare.
• Knowledge of medical terminologies, coding, and classification systems.
• Experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management or relevant field.
• Certification in Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) is a plus.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Health Information Specialist
• Work Environment: Hospital or healthcare facility. Office setting with potential for remote work.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Health Information Manager.
• 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 a Health Information Specialist Do?

A Health Information Specialist is a professional who manages and organizes health information data.

They work in a range of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and health departments.

Their main role is to ensure the quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security of health information.

They use various classification systems to code and categorize patient information for insurance reimbursement purposes, for databases and registries, and to maintain patients’ medical and treatment histories.

Health Information Specialists are also responsible for using health information software systems to compile, analyze and maintain health information data.

This data is crucial in improving patient care, controlling costs, providing documentation for legal actions and responding to surveys and research.

They often serve as a bridge between health care providers and office administrators, working closely with Registered Health Information Administrators and others to interpret data for comprehensive patient care.

In addition, Health Information Specialists are responsible for following laws and regulations related to health information and maintaining confidentiality and security of all patient data.

 

Health Information Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Health Information Specialist should have a range of skills and qualifications that ensure they can effectively manage and organize health information data, such as:

• Knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology to correctly categorize and manage health information data.
• Understanding of healthcare regulations, medical classifications and coding systems to provide accurate, reliable and lawful information.
• Proficiency in health information management systems and database software to accurately input, store, and retrieve data.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and integrity of health information data.
• Good communication skills to liaise with healthcare professionals and assist in the decision-making process by providing necessary information.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exhibit professional ethics, as they will be dealing with sensitive and private patient data.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and rectify discrepancies in medical data.
• Time management skills to process, compile, and report health information data in a timely manner.

 

Health Information Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Health Information Specialist role typically require an associate’s degree in health information management or a related field.

Initial experience may be gained through internships, part-time roles, or on-the-job training in healthcare facilities such as hospitals or clinics.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience usually have a more in-depth understanding of medical terminologies, health data standards, and electronic health record systems.

They might have worked in roles such as Medical Coding Specialist, Health Information Technician, or Health Data Analyst.

Those with over 3 years of experience are expected to have more advanced skills in areas like data analysis, privacy and security of health information, and management of health information systems.

They may also have experience in supervisory roles or project management in healthcare settings.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for managerial or leadership roles.

Their extensive experience enables them to oversee health information departments, ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, and develop strategies to improve health information management processes.

 

Health Information Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Health Information Specialists typically have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in health information management, health informatics, or a related field.

Their studies must provide a strong foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and coding systems such as ICD-10 and CPT.

They should also have a good understanding of healthcare statistics, data management, and health information systems.

Most roles require Health Information Specialists to have a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certification from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

Some positions, especially those with managerial or specialized duties, may require a master’s degree in health informatics, healthcare management or a related field.

Further, it is beneficial for Health Information Specialists to have knowledge of privacy laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Continuing education and training are important in this role due to changes in medical coding and advancements in health information technology.

Therefore, many specialists pursue additional certifications and ongoing training throughout their careers to stay up-to-date.

 

Health Information Specialist Salary Expectations

A Health Information Specialist earns an average salary of $42,630 (USD) per year.

The salary can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, certification, and the region in which they are employed.

 

Health Information Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Health Information Specialist need?

Health Information Specialists should have strong communication skills, as they often interact with healthcare professionals and patients.

They should also have good attention to detail for accurate data entry and analysis.

Technical skills such as proficiency in Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office Suite are also important.

Knowledge about medical terminologies, coding systems, and confidentiality regulations is also required for this role.

 

Do Health Information Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Health Information Specialist positions require a minimum of an associate’s degree in health information technology or a related field.

Many also require certification such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) credentials.

Some roles may require a bachelor’s degree in health information management.

 

What should you look for in a Health Information Specialist resume?

A Health Information Specialist’s resume should include their educational qualifications, such as a degree in health information technology or a related field.

Certifications, like RHIT or CTR, are also important.

Look for experience in data analysis, record management, and medical coding.

Proficiency in EHR systems and Microsoft Office Suite should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Health Information Specialist?

A good Health Information Specialist is detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in data entry and analysis.

They should possess good communication skills, as they often interact with healthcare professionals and patients.

A high level of integrity is also essential due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle.

They should also be adaptable to new technologies and coding systems.

 

What are the daily duties of a Health Information Specialist?

On a typical day, a Health Information Specialist may collect, analyze, and manage patient health information.

They often code diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement purposes, maintain patient records, ensure data integrity, confidentiality and security, and communicate with healthcare providers to clarify diagnoses or to obtain additional information.

They also play a significant role in quality assurance and compliance processes.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we unraveled the intricacies of what it truly means to be a health information specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing healthcare data.

It’s about shaping the future of healthcare, one piece of information at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive health information specialist job description template and concrete examples, you’re ready to make your next career move.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your ideal tool for crafting accurate job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of information contributes to the larger healthcare ecosystem.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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