Medical Records Analyst Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital health care, the role of medical records analysts is more critical than ever.

As medical technology evolves, the need for skilled professionals who can manage, interpret, and safeguard our health records continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a medical records analyst?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricate field of medical records analysis,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable medical records analyst job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Medical Records Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

Medical Records Analysts play a vital role in the healthcare system by managing, organizing, and analyzing patient health records.

They ensure that all information is accurate, complete, and secure and comply with the regulatory requirements.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Reviewing, organizing, and analyzing medical records for accuracy and completeness
• Entering and updating patient information into electronic health record (EHR) systems
• Identifying discrepancies or inconsistencies in medical records and working with healthcare providers to correct them
• Maintaining patient confidentiality as per the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and other privacy regulations
• Responding to requests for patient information from healthcare providers, insurers, and patients
• Collaborating with healthcare providers to ensure documentation supports the provision of quality patient care
• Preparing reports on patient data for regulatory agencies and healthcare providers
• Staying up-to-date with changes in medical coding and billing practices, as well as healthcare regulations
• Assisting in audits and compliance programs

 

Medical Records Analyst Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Medical Records Analyst to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for organizing and managing health information data, ensuring its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security.

The successful candidate will be adept at maintaining electronic health records, coding for reimbursement and research, compiling and analyzing patient data, and using classification software.

Familiarity with medical terminologies, legal health regulations and strong analytical skills are necessary for this role.

 

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.
• Use classification software to assign clinical codes for data analysis and insurance reimbursement.
• Analyze electronic data to improve healthcare information.
• Review patient records for timeliness, completeness, accuracy, and appropriateness of data.
• Track patient outcomes for quality assessment and use the information collected to improve patient care.
• Protect patients’ health information for confidentiality, authorized access for treatment, and data security.
• Identify discrepancies in medical records and collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure documentation accuracy.
• Prepare regular reports on health information data.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Medical Records Analyst or a similar role in a healthcare setting.
• Experience with EHR (Electronic Health Records) systems.
• Knowledge of medical terminologies, coding, and health data standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of patient information.
• Certification in health information management (RHIT or RHIA) is desirable.
• Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Medical Records Analyst
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. Some remote work may be possible.
• 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: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 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 Medical Records Analyst Do?

Medical Records Analysts work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or healthcare agencies.

They are primarily responsible for managing, organizing, and analyzing patient health records.

Their main tasks include reviewing patient health records for accuracy, comprehensiveness, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

They must ensure that the information within these records is correct, complete, and up-to-date.

Medical Records Analysts also play an essential role in ensuring the security and confidentiality of these records.

They must adhere to strict privacy laws and standards, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to protect sensitive patient information.

They often use electronic health record (EHR) systems to manage and analyze health data.

They may also be involved in implementing or upgrading these systems.

Moreover, Medical Records Analysts often collaborate with healthcare providers and staff to clarify information, provide training on documentation standards, and improve the quality of data in health records.

They may also be involved in conducting audits or research studies that require accurate and reliable health data, contributing valuable insights that can improve patient care and outcomes.

 

Medical Records Analyst Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Medical Records Analyst should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, including:

• Proficiency in medical terminologies to accurately analyze and classify medical records, and to aid in the conversion process from paper to digital records.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in the process of reviewing, analyzing, and validating patient information.
• Data entry skills for inputting patients’ details, diagnoses, treatments, and procedures accurately into a digital records system.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify any discrepancies or mistakes in the medical records, and to make the necessary corrections.
• Good communication skills for interacting with healthcare professionals, insurance companies, and other staff to gather or clarify information.
• Knowledge of health information management and medical coding to accurately categorize patient information for insurance billing, databases and maintaining patient’s medical and treatment histories.
• Familiarity with privacy laws and regulations, especially HIPAA, to ensure that patient’s health information is properly protected.
• Computer literacy, especially in EHR software, databases, and Microsoft Office suite, to manage and organize large volumes of data.
• Organizational skills to manage numerous records efficiently and to maintain an orderly system for easy access and retrieval of information.

 

Medical Records Analyst Experience Requirements

Entry-level Medical Records Analyst candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often achieved through internships, part-time roles or administrative positions within a healthcare setting.

They may also gain relevant experience through coursework or certifications in health information management or a related field.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a strong background in medical coding and health information systems.

They may have held roles such as Medical Records Technician, Health Information Technician, or Coding Specialist, which offer hands-on experience in analyzing and managing patient records.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have a solid understanding of medical terminology, diagnostic and procedural coding, and healthcare regulations.

They may also possess leadership experience, having overseen teams or departments, making them ideal candidates for managerial or supervisory roles within the medical records department.

Regardless of the level of experience, all Medical Records Analysts should have excellent attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and a high degree of accuracy, as their work directly impacts patient care and billing processes.

 

Medical Records Analyst Education and Training Requirements

Medical Records Analysts typically require a minimum of an associate’s degree in Health Information Management or a related field.

In these programs, students are trained in maintaining, gathering, and analyzing patient medical records.

Courses may include medical terminology, health data requirements and standards, clinical classification and coding systems, data analysis, healthcare reimbursement methods, database security and management, and quality improvement methods.

Most employers prefer candidates with a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or a Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) certification.

To earn these certifications, individuals must graduate from an accredited program and successfully pass an exam.

A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Health Information Management or related field may be required for positions with more responsibilities or for advancement opportunities.

These programs offer additional training in strategic planning, health information policy and law, and management of various healthcare systems.

Many Medical Records Analysts also engage in continuous learning opportunities and pursue additional certifications to keep up with changes in healthcare regulations, medical coding updates, and advancements in health information technology.

Strong computer skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of medical coding are also important for a successful career as a Medical Records Analyst.

 

Medical Records Analyst Salary Expectations

A Medical Records Analyst earns an average salary of $42,630 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as prior experience in the field, level of education, and the region where they are employed.

 

Medical Records Analyst Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Medical Records Analyst need?

A Medical Records Analyst should have strong attention to detail to ensure accurate and complete patient records.

They should also possess good communication skills, given their frequent interactions with healthcare staff and administrative personnel.

Furthermore, they should be proficient in using medical software and databases, and have a sound understanding of medical terminology and health information standards.

 

Do Medical Records Analysts need a degree?

Yes, most Medical Records Analysts are required to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in health information management or a related field.

Some roles may also require certification, such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential.

 

What should you look for in a Medical Records Analyst resume?

When reviewing a Medical Records Analyst resume, you should look for a degree in health information management or a similar field.

Additionally, look for experience in medical records analysis or healthcare administration.

Skills in medical coding, data analysis, and proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems are also crucial.

 

What qualities make a good Medical Records Analyst?

A good Medical Records Analyst is methodical, detail-oriented, and can work efficiently under pressure.

They should have excellent analytical skills to interpret complex medical records and the ability to maintain patient confidentiality.

Good interpersonal skills are also essential as they often need to communicate with healthcare personnel.

 

Is it difficult to hire Medical Records Analysts?

Hiring a Medical Records Analyst can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role and the scarcity of qualified candidates.

To attract the right candidates, employers may need to offer competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and a positive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the intricate world of a medical records analyst.

And guess what?

It’s not just about organizing data.

It’s about shaping the landscape of healthcare, one medical record at a time.

With our detailed medical records analyst job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your move.

But why stop at just that?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating comprehensive job listings or polishing your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every medical record is a chapter of the broader healthcare story.

Let’s write that story. Together.

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