What are the responsibilities and job description for the Health Information-Coding Apprentice position at Thayer County Health Services?
Health Information-Coding Apprentice
Thayer County Health Services, Thayer County, NE
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position contributes to the fulfillment of Thayer County Health Services vision and mission by being responsible for accurately maintaining the electronic health records in the hospital and clinic setting. This position will become proficient in all areas of Health Information Management (HIM), including release of information, chart analysis, cancer registry, data submission, coding and revenue cycle support. in accordance with Nebraska State Regulations, the Privacy Rule, and TCHS’ Policies and Procedures. This position will participate in a registered coding apprenticeship program including full-time work and self-study education.
This position contributes to the fulfillment of Thayer County Health Services vision and mission by being responsible for accurately maintaining the electronic health records in the hospital and clinic setting. This position will become proficient in all areas of Health Information Management (HIM), including release of information, chart analysis, cancer registry, data submission, coding and revenue cycle support. in accordance with Nebraska State Regulations, the Privacy Rule, and TCHS’ Policies and Procedures. This position will participate in a registered coding apprenticeship program including full-time work and self-study education.
SUPERVISION: Reports to Health Information Management Department Director
SHIFT: Non-Exempt Full-Time Days, 40 hours/week
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
- High School Diploma is required.
- Knowledge of medical terminology is preferred.
- Prior experience in a health care facility is preferred.
- Experience with electronic health records is preferred.
- Computer and keyboarding skills required.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and with a team.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Interest in developing a broad range of health information skills, including medical coding, is required. Coding experience is welcome, but not required, and on-the-job training will be provided. Depending on the level of education and experience, training may include a self-study educational program in addition to full-time working hours.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performs progressive medical coding duties, as assigned, with the intention of developing a wide range of coding skills.
- Accurately scans daily reports into the electronic health records in a timely manner, as assigned.
- Audits the electronic health record for accuracy of scanned, transcribed and all data entered into the electronic health record. This includes ensuring all documents have been signed by the appropriate staff.
- Assists with the accurate completion of transcription documents within 24 hours of being received.
- Runs assigned daily reports.
- Accurately and appropriately completes release of information functions and documentation in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy and Security Rules, State Regulations, and TCHS’ Policies and Procedures.
- Accurately checks hospital stays for daily charges when assigned.
- Accurately enters charges to accounts as required.
- Assures confidentiality of patient and hospital information, maintaining compliance with policies and procedures.
- Maintains effective working relationships with patients, visitors, physicians, office staff, hospital personnel, and the public.
- Assumes responsibility for personal and professional growth through participation in department meetings, in-service programs, continuing education programs, and fulfills yearly requirements as stated by policy.
- Other duties assigned by supervisor.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:
- Maintains and promotes good health practices.
- Will conform to TCHS procedures and policies.
- Will perform all duties as described by the job description within the scope of licensure.
- Does not discuss patient matters such as medical treatment, diagnosis or history outside of the clinical setting in; keeping in compliance of HIPAA.
- Understand and comply with the requirements of Thayer County Health Services’ Compliance Program, including, but not limited to, the Code of Conduct, the Compliance Manual, all supporting policies for compliance and compliance plans.
- Participate in all education and training programs regarding compliance as required by organizational policy and as requested by supervisor.
- Demonstrates formal greetings with patients, visitors and TCHS staff.
- Willingly accepts new responsibilities and cooperates with implementation of change.
- Dresses in a neat, clean uniform for patient care; maintain high personal hygiene standards.
- Demonstrates respect, integrity, compassion, and excellence through a “We Care” philosophy with all patients, visitors, and TCHS staff.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Normal office environment. Routine periods of sitting, walking, and standing required.
- Works in an indoor, smoke-free, climate-controlled environment.
- Require vision correctable within a normal range.