HIM Release of Information Rep III

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

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ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Analyzes authorization for medical information/PHI to evaluate for HIPAA compliance prior to processing. Determines if the authorization contains all of the elements required under HIPAA federal regulations. Requires exercising judgment for several of these requirements as the wording may be subjective and still be acceptable under HIPAA. Analyzes authorization carefully to ensure it completely follows the true intent of HIPAA, including determining the authorization is compliant for behavioral health and highly restricted information for chemical dependency and methadone maintenance records. Processes all requests efficiently to ensure completion of records request within allotted timeframe.
• Validates and coordinates the release of protected health information (PHI) from various Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), including paper charts and microfiche, while utilizing ROI specific software to process medical records requests. Ensures only records from requested affiliate, office, provider, specialty, date of service, and/or hospital entity are released per policy. Ensures completion and accuracy, as well as compliance with State and Federal guidelines, prior to release. Analyzes PHI to determine if there are restricted records contained anywhere within the chart. If restricted records are found, analyzes the authorization to ensure the verbiage allows for the release of restricted records. Redacts restrictive information where required, either manually or using specialized software. Reviews redacted records to ensure accuracy prior to release to further protect PHI/patient.
• Answers, analyzes and resolves questions from patients, payers, attorneys, regulatory agencies, auditors, healthcare facilities and 3rd party requesters. Communicates the specific laws or regulations of why something is required or unable to be released while maintaining confidentiality to customer. Using knowledge of the laws and regulations, determines the best solution to provide customer the requested records. Takes initiative to find creative or alternative ways to help the customer, while still following all Federal and State laws and regulations. Collaborates with internal and external parties verbally, in writing or in person to accomplish established departmental goals.
• Researches and analyzes record to determine if there is a relationship shown when a patient representative or proxy is requesting records. Exercises professionalism, sensitivity and good judgement when there are no legal documents to prove relationships. Uses comprehensive knowledge of the laws and regulations to ensure appropriate guidelines are followed to protect patients’ right to privacy.
• Analyzes and validates all subpoenas and hospital attorney requests received for HIPAA compliance. Researches and validates to ensure all records requested are present and prepared for certification.
• Uses extensive knowledge of hospital policy and procedures and Federal and State laws and regulations to advise and direct other departments on the process of requests for PHI. Uses clear language to help internal and external customers understand the specific laws and/or regulations or policies and procedures that pertain to the release of PHI. Coordinates, prepares and documents denial of access to medical records following established policy.
• Researches and facilitates all patient amendment requests for corrections to legal medical record. Collaborates with internal parties by telephone and in writing to ensure timely and accurate processing of these requests and regulations are met. Coordinates, prepares and documents denial responses.

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Associate's degree in Health Information Technology and 2 years of relevant experience required
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability and temperament to work with minimal to no supervision and to exercise independent judgement in problem solving with organizing multiple tasks/projects, and setting priorities effectively required
• Ability to communicate effectively and negotiate with all levels of organization, leadership staff, physicians, attorneys, paralegals, patients, family members and/or other internal or external customers required
• Proficiency in computer usage including Microsoft Office Programs, file saving, PDF file manipulation, importing and exporting of electronic files, excellent data entry skills and navigation of electronic medical record systems and software preferred
• Knowledge of release of information and medical record documentation preferred related to HIPAA preferred

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Registered Health Information Technologist with Associates preferred

EOE Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled:

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law.  This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.