Release Of Information Specialist     

Job Code: 22051    

Position Summary

Responsible for organizing and processing all medical records requests through prompt and courteous service in a customer-focused environment. Ensures accuracy and safeguarding patients' right to privacy by adhering to Kootenai Health (KH) policy, State and Federal law, HIPAA, and HITECH guidelines. 

Responsibilities

•    Acts as the central contact for correspondence related to Recovery Audit Contracts (RAC), Medicaid Integrity Program (MIP), and Commercial Audit activities; denial management; and high risk audits

•    Follows KH policy and procedures, Federal and State laws and regulations to include HIPAA, HITECH and Information Blocking, to process requests for protected health information (PHI)

•    Ensures patient rights in compliance with the Office of Civil Rights

•    Ensures record requests are sent in the form requested within defined timelines 

•    Analyzes medical record for completeness prior to release or data archive

•    Works the following work queues, as assigned:

•    Kootenai MyChart Releases

•    KH ROI WQ Failed Print Jobs

•    KH ROI Releases (Requester Needed)

•    KH ROI Billing Outstanding Balances

•    KH Releases Due

•    KH Billing-Partial Payments

•    KH Billing-Overpayments

•    KH Active ROI Releases (Over 30 Days)

•    KH Active ROI Releases (Last 30 Days)

•    Chart Gateway Requests Requiring Review

•    KH HIM – Newborn Name Review

•    Works in various Electronic Medical Records (EMR) reviewing release information and documents appropriately for accounting of disclosure 

•    Reviews legal components of the medical record, ensuring ROI activities are performed accurately 

•    Follows record retention guidelines, including Kootenai Health’s policy for records destruction and age of retention, also outlined in the Washington RCW 70.41.190

•    Manages the patient identity in accordance with the red flag rules and regulations and addresses medical record overlays with a sense of urgency to ensure patient safety 

•    Processes birth certificates and filing of paternity affidavits in accordance with state law and hospital guidelines

•    Protects the release of patient health information while maintaining confidentiality on all patient health information

•    Maintains productivity, quality and proper phone etiquette and ensures customer service standards are met

•    Works under immediate supervision and relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job

•    Performs other related duties as assigned

•    Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the field

•    Regular and predictable attendance is an essential job function

•    Competent to meet age specific needs of the unit assigned

Requirements and Minimum Qualifications

•    Associate’s degree or 2 years previous medical office or medical record experience required

•    Knowledge of HIPAA required

•    Experience with medical records within a healthcare setting preferred

Working Conditions

•    Must be able to lift and move up to 10lbs

•    Must be able to maintain a sitting position

•    Typical equipment used in an office job

•    Repetitive movements