How to Become a Medical Records Technician Education and Training To become a Medical Records Technician, you typically need to complete the following steps: 1. Earn a High School Diploma or Equivalent: Obtain a high school diploma or GED equivalent. This is the minimum educational requirement for most medical records technician positions. 2. Complete a Postsecondary Certificate Program: Enroll in a medical records technician certificate program offered by a community college or vocational school. These programs typically take around one year to complete and provide training in medical terminology, coding systems, data management, and healthcare laws and ethics. 3. Consider an Associate's Degree: While not always required, earning an associate's degree in health information technology or a related field can enhance your job prospects and provide a more comprehensive education. These programs usually take two years to complete. 4. Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience in medical records management. Consider internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs in healthcare facilities to develop your skills and understanding of the field. Certification Although certification is not always mandatory, it can demonstrate your expertise and enhance your job prospects. Consider obtaining the following certifications: 1. Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT): Offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), this certification validates your competency in managing medical records and health information. To earn RHIT certification, you must pass an exam. 2. Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR): This certification is specifically for individuals interested in cancer registry management. It is offered by the National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA) and requires passing an exam. Skills and Qualities To excel as a medical records technician, you should possess the following skills and qualities: 1. Attention to Detail: Accurate and meticulous record-keeping is crucial in this role. 2. Organizational Skills: You will be responsible for managing and organizing large volumes of medical records and data. 3. Knowledge of Medical Terminology: Familiarity with medical terminology and coding systems is essential for accurately interpreting and managing medical records. 4. Understanding of Privacy Laws: You should have a good grasp of healthcare privacy laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). 5. Communication Skills: Effective communication with healthcare professionals and patients is necessary to ensure accurate record-keeping. 6. Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and other healthcare software is becoming increasingly important in this field. Job Outlook and Salary According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of medical records and health information technicians is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $44,090. Remember to research specific requirements and regulations in your region, as they may vary.