Careers for medical information technologists are growing.
The maintenance of medical health records, or medical information technology, is an important part of any health care system. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, medical information technology is a growing field with a diverse array of career options available that involve the management and maintenance of databases, software programs and security procedures. Most jobs in medical information technology require a minimum of a two-year or associate's degree.
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
Medical records and health information technicians are primarily responsible for accurately collecting patients' health information including medical history, visible symptoms, the patient's reports of pain or injury, the results of any tests and detailing any diagnoses provided by a doctor. Technicians must be experienced in using computer software, trained in maintaining databases and knowledgeable about database security systems.
Medical Coders or Coding Specialists
Medical coders or coding specialists are responsible for assigning a specific code to each diagnosis from a doctor and procedure being done to a patient through the use of systems software. The software lets medical coders or coding specialists determine the amount a health care provider will be reimbursed when working with a patient covered by Medicaid, Medicare or other insurance programs that use coding software.
Cancer Registrars
Cancer registrars, or tumor registrars, as they are also known, are specialists in medical information technology who must maintain large databases of cancer patients that visit their facility, according to the National Cancer Registrars Association. They must also know access cancer databases on a local, state and national level. Registrars are also responsible for reviewing records and pathology reports for each patient. Cancer registrars must conduct annual patient follow-up visits that allow them to track survival and recovery rates.
Tags: medical information, information technology, medical information technology, Cancer registrars, coders coding, coders coding specialists
