OVERVIEW
What is an EHR Analyst?
An EHR analyst plans, develops, and tests electronic medical record systems and ensures that they meet the exact needs of their employer. Because an increasing number of healthcare institutions are adopting state-of-the-art electronic health records systems, records analysis is becoming a more diversified field. The requirements for medical records organization, security, and access can vary significantly from one place to another.
In addition to learning information systems analysis, EHR analysts receive training in related health information management subjects, clinical operations, and business management. During your undergraduate studies, you gain an understanding of many different aspects of a healthcare facility's operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does an EHR Analyst Do?
An EHR analyst's duties include planning, studying, developing, and implementing an electronic health records system. Sometimes, EHR analysts work alone, but they often need to collaborate with clinical service providers and administrators to make decisions, solve problems, and test systems for efficacy.
Here is a look at the responsibilities of an electronic health records analyst:
- Developing an electronic health records system (EHR system) — EHR analysts are involved in the development of records systems for their employers. They also work with clinical personnel to ensure proper usage of these systems and to troubleshoot when necessary.
- Implementing upgrades — EHR analysts are also involved in implementing upgrades and making sure that a switch to a new system or application happens smoothly and seamlessly.
- Gathering and analyzing data — EHR analysts collect system data and analyze it to look for ways to improve the accuracy, efficiency, or organization of the medical information.
- Monitoring information quality and compliance — EHR analysts also engage in monitoring the quality of health records and information. They perform this task to ensure quality and efficacy, but they also check compliance with both internal policies and external legal and privacy requirements. In some cases, EHR specialists may help administrators set these policies.
- Working with clinical personnel — Some analysts work directly with clinical personnel, such as nursing informatics specialists, to perfect the information systems and the training methods for providers who use the system.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become an EHR Analyst?
Given the considerable technical and specialized skills required for a career in EHR analysis, applicants for entry-level positions need at least a bachelor's degree in a subject such as health information management. In that type of degree program, you’ll learn how to analyze and design informatics systems that are instrumental to the collection and storage of patients’ health data. You’ll also learn how to create a database management system that your colleagues would use every day, and you’ll gain valuable field experience with a clinical health information system that supports clinical decisions.
Clinical or medical records experience can help you gain employment as an EHR analyst. Many employers have particular needs, and expertise in a specific area of healthcare can help you during the hiring process.
Best Degrees for an EHR Analyst
Health & Nursing
Health Information Management – B.S.
A program designed for future leaders in HIM....
A program designed for future leaders in HIM.
- Time: 61% of grads earned this degree in 36 months or less.
- Tuition: $4,085 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 36 total courses in this program.
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Medical Terminology
- Healthcare System Applications
- Health Information Law and Regulations
- Healthcare Project Management
- Data Analytics and Information Governance
This CAHIIM-accredited program makes you eligible for the RHIA exam.
The best degree for an EHR Analyst is a bachelor of science in health information management. In fact, 92% of students who enroll in our program pass with their full accreditations and are ready to enter the healthcare workforce immediately, with the majority finishing their program in just 36 months.
How Much Does an EHR Analyst Make?
$47,180
TThe BLS categorizes an EHR analyst's job under Medical Records and Health Information Specialists. The average yearly salary for this field was $47,180 in May 2022. Your exact salary will vary depending on your education and location. Experience also plays a role, and professionals with an advanced degree or specialized knowledge can earn significantly more than the average.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
8%
Demand for medical records and health information specialists is projected to grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The high demand is due to the increasing use of electronic health records systems within the industry.
SKILLS
What Skills Does an EHR Analyst Need?
To succeed in EHR analysis, you need both technical (hard) and soft skills. These include the following:
- Medical coding skills. EHR analysts should be proficient with medical terms and coding systems used by healthcare professionals worldwide.
- Information systems development skills. EHR analysts should have effective information systems development skills to customize, and operate electronic health records systems and also teach others how to do so.
- Soft skills. You can learn soft skills in school, during internships, or while working in entry-level positions.
- Communication skills. EHR analysts communicate with clinical professionals and administrators to develop efficient systems and show non-technical staff members how to use them.
- Attention to detail. As the systems work with sensitive patient information, EHR analysts must maintain accuracy in all facets of their job. Mistakes could lead to poor patient care or medical errors.
Developing a diverse skill set can help you qualify for better-paying positions in the future.
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