HIM Release of Information Specialist

Job Description Summary

This position is responsible for processing requests for release of patient health information while following established State and Federal rules and regulations, South Shore Health System and department policies and procedures. Required to maintain confidentiality, privacy and security of all patient health information.

• Responsible for the release of patient information.
• Examines requests for HIPAA/State compliance and valid patient authorization.
• Processes priority requests for release of patient information.
• Assists in responding to all requester and patients' questions and/or problems or other health system personnel.
• Contacts other health system clinics/departments for additional health information required to fulfill patient requests.
• Examines subpoenas/court orders for validity.
• Retrieves hardcopy and Electronic Medical Records from hospital systems.
• Orders offsite records and pulls microfilm record if necessary.
• Ensures the patient's name and medical record number on the request matches the medical record.
• Reviews medical records for legally protected and sensitive information and obtains specific patient authorization when necessary.
• Determines if authorization is valid and a rejection letter is required.
• Creates/Edits/Modifies letters.
• Contacts requestors for extensions or clarification.
• Interacts with Internal Council if subpoena is not sufficient and any other legal matters.
• Abstracts, scans and prints the required information to adequately fulfill requests.
• Enters request into the South Shore Health System Release Module tracking system.
• Creates invoices for billable requests.
• Updates South Shore Health System Release Module Tracking System.
• Monitors work queues and ROI Reports.
• Interacts with Internal Council if subpoena is not sufficient.
• Audits Request Fulfillment.

• Participates in continued learning and possesses a willingness and ability to learn and utilize new technology and procedures that continue to develop in their role and throughout the organization.
• Embraces technological advances that allow us to communicate information effectively and efficiently based on role.
• Prepares certification in lieu of personal appearance in court.
• Packages and mails records for delivery.
• May perform other related duties as required.
• Ensures timely completion of ROI requests.
• Meets productivity standards for processing ROIs.
• Ensures ROIs are completed accurately and sent out to the correct party.

• Minimum Education:
  
  Minimum of high school diploma, RHIT or related associate's degree preferred.
• Minimum
  
  Work Experience:
  
  3-5 years' experience in a Health Information Management Department preferred.