HIM Release of Information Specialist

Job Description Summary

This position is responsible for processing requests for release of patient health information while following established State and Federal rules and regulations, South Shore Health System and department policies and procedures. Required to maintain confidentiality, privacy and security of all patient health information.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1 - Responsible for the release of patient information.

2 - Examines requests for HIPAA/State compliance and valid patient authorization

3 - Processes priority requests for release of patient information

4 - Assists in responding to all requester and patients' questions and/or problems or other health system personnel.

5 - Contacts other health system clinics/departments for additional health information required to fulfill patient requests

6 - Examines subpoenas/court orders for validity

7 - Retrieves hardcopy and Electronic Medical Records from hospital systems

8 - Orders offsite records and pulls microfilm record if necessary

9 - Ensures the patient's name and medical record number on the request matches the medical record

10 - Reviews medical records for legally protected and sensitive information and obtain specific patient authorization when necessary

11 - Determine if authorization is valid and rejection letter is required

12 - Creates/Edits/Modifies letters

13 - Contacts requestors for extensions or clarification

14 - Interacts with Internal Council if subpoena is not sufficient and any other legal matters

15 - Abstract, scan and print the required information to adequately fulfill requests

16 - Enters request into the South Shore Health System Release Module tracking system in

17 - Creates invoices for billable requests

18 - Updates South Shore Health System Release Module Tracking System

19 - Monitors work queues and ROI Reports

20 - Interact with Internal Council if subpoena is not sufficient

21 - Audit Request Fulfillment

Technology and Learning

a - Participates in continued learning and possess a willingness and ability to learn and utilize new technology and procedures that continue to develop in their role and throughout the organization.

b - Embraces technological advances that allow us to communicate information effectively and efficiently based on role.

c - Prepare certification in lieu of personal appearance in court

d - Package and mail records for delivery

e - May perform other related duties as required

f - Ensures timely Completion of ROI Requests.

g - Meets productivity standards for processing ROIs

h - Ensures ROIs are completed accurately and sent out to the correct party

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education - Preferred

Minimum of high school diploma, RHIT or related associate's degree preferred
Minimum Work Experience

3-5 years' experience in a Health Information Management Department preferred