Medical Records Technician (Release of Information)

Quick Facts

• Role: Medical Records Technician (Release of Information)

• Department/area: Health Information Management (HIM) / Release of Information (ROI)

• Focus: Review and process requests for disclosure of patient protected health information (PHI)

Description

The MRT (ROI) reviews and processes requests for patient protected health information and provides direct customer service to Veterans and/or third parties by releasing PHI only when valid signed written requests and authorizations are received. The role evaluates request adequacy and validity, applies applicable laws and exclusions, prioritizes requests, and ensures releases are limited to what is authorized and to the designated recipient. You will also handle record retrieval and release workflow for both paper and electronic records, including ROI logging and tracking.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate completed authorization forms for adequacy
• Screen requests for urgency and complete most urgent items first using priority systems
• Apply confidentiality laws and exclusions (including Privacy Act, FOIA, and 38 U.S.C. 7332)
• Process facility ROI requests and required information for VA Regional Office exchange via AMIE
• Verify request validity and proper authorization before releasing information
• Input requests into the ROI computer package for logging and tracking
• Assist visitors/callers with forms and respond to patient questions about services
• Review paper and computerized health records to identify material to be copied/printed/written to electronic media for release
• Ensure released information is limited to what is specifically authorized and to the person/agency named
• Compose detailed correspondence; resolve conflicting/inconsistent or ambiguous requests
• Process Social Security requests using ROI software (secure downloads/uploads, confirmation code handling, and closing requests)
• Complete financial deposit transactions related to subpoenas and processing fees for ROI releases

Benefits

A comprehensive federal employee benefits package is provided; eligibility depends on position details.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship
• Selective Service registration (for males born after 12/31/1959)
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
• Subject to background/security investigation
• Completion of online onboarding and pre-employment requirements (including I-9 acceptable identification)
• Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
• Meet education/experience qualifications: one year of creditable medical terminology and health record experience or an associate degree in health information technology/health information management (or related) with required coursework or an approved equivalent combination
• Demonstrated KSAs: use health information technology/office software; follow health record documentation and PHI disclosure guidelines; prioritize and meet timeframes; follow privacy/ROI laws and regulations; communicate effectively with diverse individuals

Physical Requirements

Mainly sedentary in an office environment, with some walking/standing/bending; occasional lifting up to 15 pounds.