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Medical Records Specialist

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AVG. SALARY

$46,350

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EDUCATION

1-2 years post-secondary training

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Health Science cluster Health Informatics pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

One to two years post-secondary training

Health information technicians typically need a postsecondary certificate to enter the occupation, although some qualify with a high school diploma. Others might need an associate’s degree.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Darrell King is chair of the health information technology program at Vincennes University. He says that a two-year program is a good way to start. Four-year degree programs and master's programs are available. However, these train people for management jobs, and many employers are looking for technicians to do the work.

Sometimes hospitals promote medical records clerks to technician positions, but this is becoming increasingly uncommon.

"I recommend that people get a two-year program first and get some experience. Often, the employer will help pay for your four-year degree later," says King.

King also points out that some universities, including Vincennes, are offering distance education programs so people can learn from home while working at other jobs or while tending to children.

"This is a very good method for older workers to get their accreditation training, or for young people to work while they learn the profession," he adds.

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) website offers links to colleges and universities in the U.S. that offer training programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Those who qualify can pursue voluntary certification from AHIMA. Exams are held four times a year. "Many employers prefer to hire medical records technicians with the AHIMA certification," says King.

High school students interested in pursuing a career in this field should study biology, chemistry, health and especially computers. "Mathematics and English are important also," says King.

Extra Requirements

Employers may prefer to hire medical records specialists who have certification, or they may expect applicants to earn certification shortly after being hired. Some medical records specialists earn the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential; certifications for medical coders include the Certified Billing & Coding Specialists (CBCS), Certified Coding Associate (CCA), Certified Coding Specialist (CCS), and Certified Professional Coder (CPC).

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.