Release of Information Specialist

Release Of Information Specialist

The Release Of Information Specialist is responsible for coordinating release of medical information of all requests for protected health information (PHI) in accordance with Federal (42 CFR Part 2), State and HIPAA rules and regulations. Customers requesting records include but are not limited to: Attorneys, Patient Financial Services, Disability Determination, Patients, Insurance Carriers, SMH departments and other healthcare providers. Prepares correspondence and medical records for the release of patient information ensuring HIPAA compliance and the patient's right to privacy, completes certifications and other documents for court and legal purposes. Responsibilities involve the disclosure of PHI through means of paper or electronic media.

Required Skills/Qualifications/Training/Experience:

• Ability to prioritize all requests with attention to the nature of the request, while ensuring requisite documentation has been provided with appropriate authorization secured and all regulatory requirements and timeframes met
• Self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and the ability to work independently on assigned tasks as warranted and appropriate
• Excellent administrative telephone skills
• Ability to clearly, accurately and professionally present and explain complex information to patients, employees, and managers
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize and plan work activities efficiently
• Ability to multi-task, handle interruptions and work effectively in a fast-paced, professional environment
• Admissions processing, release of information/verbal requests processing for internal and external requestors, including burning copies of records onto CDs, filing, retrieval and photocopying of records and telephone coverage for the department
• Outstanding oral and written communication skills in working with all stakeholders, including providers, internal and external customers, peers and colleagues
• Ability to operate general office equipment to include personal computer, CD burner, scanner, printer, telephone, fax and copy machine
• Proficiency in technology usage, including Microsoft office
• Troubleshoot computer or system failures with IT to resolve downtime situations timely
• Ability to work under minimal supervision, while maintaining optimal quality and productivity of work
• Responsible for safeguarding patient records and ensuring compliance with HIPAA standards

Preferred Skills/Qualifications/Training/Experience:

• One year or more of office/clerical/computer experience
• Minimum of 2 years' experience in an acute care hospital setting, Health Information Management Department, specific to the release of information
• Experience in Meditech and Cerner a plus

Educational Requirements:

• Associates or Bachelor's Degree, with concentration in Health Sciences preferred

License/Certification:

• RHIT or RHIA preferred

Age Specific Criteria:

• Ability to effectively communicate to all age levels served within the scope of the position/assigned areas

Ability to Meet Job Performance Expectations:

• Must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the position without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or other individuals in the workplace, with or without a reasonable accommodation