Job Details

Suncoast Hospice, a member of Empath Health is currently seeking a Health Information Specialist to join our team.

The HIM Department is charged with ensuring the privacy and integrity of electronic and paper medical records are maintained and available to those who require and are authorized to access the records in accordance with policies and procedures of Suncoast Hospice, Empath Home Health and affiliated Empath Health programs. It is the responsibility of the Health Information Specialist (HIS) to support the HIM department strategic objectives and goals as demonstrated by the accuracy and timeliness of their work as well as the analysis and critical thinking required to support quality reporting and regulatory requirements.  

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Applies release of information and HIPAA knowledge and legal requirements that pertain to Empath Health programs and processing of medical records. Understand Release of Information laws specific to Hospice patients.
2. Responsible for receiving, compiling, processing and maintaining medical records requests in accordance with company policy.
3. Compiles, copies and sends all pertinent information to support any third-party request for information such as third party payers and legal requests.
4. Consults supervisor, team members and appropriate resources to vet release of information questions.
5. Manages all requests and inquiries for patient heath information; validates HIPAA compliant authorization; ensures requesting party has legal right to patient information; dispenses patient health information with accountability to all regulatory entities and according to the facility’s policies and procedures.
6. Provides excellent customer service; exhibits professional, attentive, courteous, and respectful demeanor with each customer.
7. Interacts with requestors to identify medical records needed for continuity of care, review, billing, or release of information.
8. Access and transmit patient health information via various computerized health record systems, paper, fax, scanning.
9. Maintains confidentiality and security of all patient, client, and facility information.
10. Performs job duties at established quantitative and qualitative standards to meet departmental goals and objectives.
11. Inform manager of work, site difficulties and fluctuating volumes.
12. Demonstrates a complete understanding of the release of information process, including guidelines in training manuals, regulatory manuals, and facility policies and procedures, as related to patient health.
13. Knowledge and use of web based portals to order, retrieve and upload clinical documentation from hospital systems.
14. Process release of information request; request records from community providers.
15. Generates reports for manager as directed.
16. Answer incoming phone calls.
17. Maintains current knowledge related to applicable statutes, regulations, guidelines, and standards necessary to perform job duties.
18. Communicates effectively at all levels within the organization, expressing ideas and information clearly and concisely in verbal and written form.
19. Contributes to the morale and teamwork of the staff and facility; displays a positive attitude and patient-minded vision with customer/client satisfaction as the goal.
20. Consistent application of medical privacy regulations to guard against unauthorized disclosure.
21. Use of multiple EMRs and related applications i.e NetSmart, Cognify, Sales Force, ECW, WellSky and others that may be acquired.
    

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• Education and/or Experience: College graduate, AHIMA certification, or AS Degree preferred with minimum of one year related health information experience or credential. Will consider candidates without certification or degree, with a minimum of 1-3 years of HIM experience preferred.
• Strong analysis and critical thinking skills for release of information and HIPAA.
• Computer skills with experience working with Outlook and MS Office Suite; experience in electronic health record systems required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.
• Accurate, detail oriented with the ability to problem-solve with minimal direct supervision
• Must be self-motivated and have excellent customer service and organizational skills.
• Must have the ability to speak clearly and have patience and compassion when answering calls (patients, family members, etc.).
• Must be flexible to work weekdays and/or weekends if needed.

Suncoast Hospice, Empath Home Health, and Empath Health Pharmacy are proud to be accredited by the Joint Commission showing our commitment to quality.

Empath Health values diversity as it strengthens our community and care. We embrace the diversity of cultures, thoughts, beliefs and traditions of our employees, volunteers and people we are honored to serve across our network. Our diverse staff reflects our community and each day, we work to be respectful, sensitive and competent with each other and those in our care. In every journey, we are dedicated to achieving comfort, dignity and exceptional care. Those of all backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply with us or seek our care and services.

Our commitment to patient, client, staff and volunteer safety is a cornerstone of a High Reliability Organization with a focus on zero harm. Participation in the seasonal influenza program is a condition of employment and a requirement for all Empath Health employees.

Providing compassionate, full life care is an honor we take seriously at Empath Health. Join our team and make a positive impact in the community!