Health Information Specialist

Health Information Specialist - Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory College of Veterinary Medicine Job Summary Under general supervision, the incumbent serves as a specialist and resource for the management, integrity, and use of laboratory and client information within the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL). The position performs specialized functions involving the review, verification, analysis, maintenance, retrieval, and management of information within the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and related electronic systems; interprets and communicates applicable policies, procedures, and requirements; supports quality assurance, compliance, reporting, system implementation, and continuous improvement activities; and serves as a resource and liaison to clients and VDL personnel regarding laboratory information and related processes. Laboratory Information, Records, and Quality Assurance Serves as a specialized resource for the management of laboratory and client information within the LIMS and related systems, applying knowledge of VDL processes, information requirements, and procedures to support information accuracy, integrity, and laboratory operations. Maintains, reviews, verifies, and updates laboratory and client data within the LIMS and other applicable systems; identifies discrepancies or incomplete information and takes appropriate action in accordance with established procedures, escalating issues to the supervisor when appropriate. Monitors and evaluates laboratory information made available to clients through VDL resources, including test lookup and website content, to verify accuracy, completeness, and consistency with information maintained in the LIMS; researches discrepancies or missing information and escalates issues as appropriate. Processes requests for laboratory information, including report retrieval, documentation requests, and release of information, in accordance with established procedures, confidentiality requirements, and applicable VDL guidelines. Maintains laboratory records in accordance with established retention requirements, including organizing, scanning, labeling, filing, retrieving, and assisting with the authorized destruction of case-related documentation in accordance with applicable VDL and AAVLD guidelines. Participates in functional testing of LIMS updates, new releases, and new laboratory tests to evaluate their impact on VDL workflows, information accuracy, and reporting requirements; documents and communicates identified issues and escalates concerns when appropriate. Performs queries in the LIMS and other applicable systems in response to client inquiries and to support quality assurance, compliance, reporting, and operational needs. Creates and maintains electronic files, spreadsheets, and other documentation to support laboratory operations, records management, client communications, and information requests. Participates in VDL quality assurance and continuous improvement activities by identifying information or process issues, maintaining required documentation, and supporting established corrective and improvement activities. Trains and provides guidance to student workers on information management procedures; assists with coordinating routine work and assigned tasks when higher-level staff are unavailable. Client Services and Laboratory Information Management Serves as a primary point of contact for clients regarding VDL laboratory services, testing requirements, submission procedures, laboratory reports, client accounts, and related processes. Responds to routine and complex inquiries received by phone, email, and in person, utilizing the LIMS and other applicable systems to research, verify, and communicate accurate information. Documents client communications, inquiries, and follow-up activities within the LIMS and quality assurance systems in accordance with VDL documentation and quality requirements. Collaborates with laboratory personnel, faculty, and other VDL staff to obtain, verify, and communicate information necessary to resolve client inquiries and support effective service delivery. Financial and Business Office Information Support Maintains and verifies client account information within the LIMS and applicable University financial systems, including Banner, and retrieves information from these systems to respond to routine client inquiries regarding invoices, account balances, laboratory charges, payment history, and account activity. Processes and records client payments, including credit card transactions and other payment methods, in accordance with established VDL and University procedures. Compares routine client account information between the LIMS and Banner to identify discrepancies and ensure information is accurately maintained; refers issues requiring additional review to appropriate personnel. Maintains documentation and generates or assists with reports and supporting documentation related to client accounts, invoices, payments, and other business office transactions using the LIMS, Banner, and other applicable systems. Performs other duties related to the Health Information Specialist position as assigned. Physical Demands and Working Conditions Allergies to hay, straw or animal dander may cause discomfort based on the location within the College of Veterinary Medicine. Position may involve lifting and maneuvering heavy boxes filled with case files. Minimum Qualifications Any one or combination totaling three (3) years (36 months) from the categories below: course work in a health-related field, as measured by the following conversion table or its proportional equivalent: 30 semester hours equals one (1) year (12 months) 60 semester hours or an Associate's degree equals eighteen months (18 months) 90 semester hours equals two (2) years (24 months) 120 semester hours or a Bachelor's degree equals three (3) years (36 months) work experience in the preparation and/or maintenance of medical records in a health care facility or program. Based on institutional requirements, a current/valid registration and certification as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) and/or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Appointment Information This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 3855 - Health Information Specialist position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/27/2026. The budgeted annual salary range for the position is$42,000 to $46,000. Final salary offered will be determined by a thorough assessment of available market data, internal salary equity, candidate experience and qualifications, collective bargaining agreements, and budget constraints. For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization. About the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive. Champaign-Urbana Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents. The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at View phone number on click.appcast.io, option #1, or View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Laseagrant