Release of Protected Health Information (RPHI) Coordinator

Job Description
POSITION SUMMARY: Under general supervision from the Chief Operating Officer, the Release of Protected Health Information (RPHI) Coordinator will effectively process release of information requests from patients, healthcare providers, government agencies, and third parties in accordance with applicable laws and Northern Valley Indian Health (NVIH) policies and procedures. The RPHI Coordinator will determine type of request, scope of authorization, and ensure legality of release in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), California Medical Information Act (CMIA), California Patient Access Law, 42 CFR Part 2, and other applicable confidentiality laws. To ensure effective processing of subpoenas, knowledge of laws relevant to subpoenas is also required. The RPHI Coordinator will act as a patient advocate by ensuring Protected Health Information is released only to authorized individuals.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS : The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list, but rather to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent will be required to perform a variety of duties listed, including but not limited to:

- Advising requestors on the process of requesting patient information

- Validating requests for information and coordinating with the applicable departments to fulfill the request

- Processing valid requests within required timelines and in compliance with federal and state law as well as company policies and procedures

- Communicating with requestors to clarify information needed for incomplete or unclear as well as the status of requests, in a timely fashion

- Maintaining accurate records of all release of information requests and ensuring documentation in accordance with company policy

- Discerning general release of information requests from subpoenas and any other requests related to legal issues.

- Recognizing information request that may lead to claims or actions against NVIH and notify appropriate staff

- Supporting Medical Records staff with subject-matter expertise for handing complex or particularly sensitive Record request questions.

- Supporting staff with answers to questions related to release of information

All NVIH employees are expected to:

- Provide the highest possible level of service to clients;

- Promote teamwork and cooperative effort among employees;

- Maintain safe practices; and

- Abide by current NVIH's policies and procedures.

Experience and Skills
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required for an employee to successfully perform their duties.

- High school diploma; Bachelors degree in Healthcare preferred

- Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certification preferred

- Two (2) years' experience performing similar duties, specifically with responding to subpoenas and other regulatory agencies.

- Demonstrated understanding of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), 42 CFR Part 2, and other federal confidentiality laws.

- Demonstrated understanding of the California Medical Information Act (CMIA) and California Patient Access Law.

- Demonstrated understanding of California law governing subpoena of documents.

- Experience with Electronic Health Record systems, preferably eClinical Works (ECW)

- Work independently under limited supervision, prioritizes work assignments

- Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment with respect to significant matters.

- Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to adapt communication style to fit the needs of the target audience.

- Strong interpersonal skills that foster a team-oriented approach, encouraging collaboration among healthcare providers, administrative staff, and external customers.

- Strongly skilled in organization, time management, and follow through.

- Ability to adapt, multitask, and prioritize daily tasks to meet deadlines.

- Ability to think critically and solve problems, escalating the identification of problems with solution-based feedback.

- Must have reliable transportation and engage in regular attendance.

Native Preference. Northern Valley Indian Health provides Native Preference in hiring practices for qualified Native applicants, in accordance with its policy. NVIH is also an Equal Opportunity and At Will Employer.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• 14 Paid Holidays
• Generous PTO package
• 401k with match
• Alternative work schedule