POSITION SUMMARY:

The Release of Information (ROI) Associate is responsible for processing all release of medical records information requests in a timely and efficient manner, both by paper and electronic means, to requestors according to state, federal, HITECH Act and HIPAA regulatory guidelines, ensuring accuracy and providing the highest quality customer service. Responsible for receipt, monitoring, and tracking of release of information requests until completed and meeting a reasonable turnaround time to ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, and FRTH Privacy and Security policy and procedure.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; coordinate activities among departments within the organization and groups outside the organization.
• Ability to maintain a professional attitude and appearance at all times.
• Ability to meet deadlines and assigned projects in a timely, efficient manner.
• Demonstrate awareness, sensitivity, and appreciation of Native American culture, traditions, customs, and socioeconomic needs.
• Ability to be prompt and efficient with minimal absences.
• Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Knowledge of health records systems
• Ability to retrieve and/or patients records from online sources.
• Good organizational and administrative abilities.
• Must be able to follow instructions and work independently.
• Ability to learn, interpret and apply policies and procedures.
• Knowledge and proficiency in use of computers and various software programs.
• Ability to write and express ideas and thoughts clearly and concisely.
• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its applications to health records.
• Knowledge of the guidelines and requirements for administration of the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) program.
• Ability to arrive at work promptly and attend work on a regular basis.
• Human relations skills to deal effectively with patients, clients, visitors and staff in person or on the telephone.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 1 years? experience in health information procedures, records regulations and systems.
• Knowledge of Medical terminology.
• Knowledge of HIPAA guidelines, federal and state laws governing disclosure of information.
• Previous Release of Information experience preferred.
• Must have knowledge of computer and office procedures/equipment

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Respond to all ROI requests by phone, FAX, mail, email and in-person inquiries for medical information; determines appropriateness of request and responds accordingly. Processes requests within required time limit(s).
• Verifies requests are compliant and/or complete before processing. Returns request to requestor if not compliant and/or complete.
• Review and process requests for disclosure of PHI in compliance with the requirements for use and disclosure of confidential information and/or records per FRTH Privacy and Security policies.
• Responsible for retrieval of records in response to requests for information, reviews records for appropriate dates of service, minimum necessary standards, and conducts verification of identity per the content of the request.
• Scans records into the patient chart.
• Obtains guidance from Privacy Official for appropriate interpretation on relevant policies, procedures and regulations for privacy, confidentiality, patient rights, and disclosure of information.
• Required to accurately upload dictation from a variety of sources in a timely manner.
• Communicates with attorneys, law enforcement, auditors, insurance company representatives, patients, community healthcare organizations, FRTH employees and other agencies regarding requests as needed.
• Activates, inactivates and processes records of deceased patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned including serving as back-up to other staff in the department.
• At the time of hire, each employee will meet with their supervisor to set measurable goals and objectives that are a requirement for the position. These measurables will be monitored by the supervisor and reviewed during the introductory period. They will also be utilized in the annual performance evaluation. The measurables may change from year to year. The supervisor is responsible to notify the employee of any new measurables at the time of the performance review.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Keeps up-to-date with current literature and outside/agency requirements.
• Serves on agency committees, workgroups, and other bodies as assigned.
• Performs other assigned duties as necessary within the realm of the Health Information Department.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; coordinate activities among departments within the organization and groups outside the organization.
• Ability to maintain a professional attitude and appearance at all times.
• Ability to meet deadlines and assigned projects in a timely, efficient manner.
• Demonstrate awareness, sensitivity, and appreciation of Native American culture, traditions, customs, and socioeconomic needs.
• Ability to be prompt and efficient with minimal absences.
• Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.
• Knowledge of health records systems
• Ability to retrieve and/or patients records from online sources.
• Good organizational and administrative abilities.
• Must be able to follow instructions and work independently.
• Ability to learn, interpret and apply policies and procedures.
• Knowledge and proficiency in use of computers and various software programs.
• Ability to write and express ideas and thoughts clearly and concisely.
• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its applications to health records.
• Knowledge of the guidelines and requirements for administration of the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) program.
• Ability to arrive at work promptly and attend work on a regular basis.
• Human relations skills to deal effectively with patients, clients, visitors and staff in person or on the telephone