Medical Records and Health Information Manager

Backpack Healthcare, a dynamic organisation dedicated to revolutionising behavioural healthcare accessibility for young individuals and their families, is seeking a seasoned Medical Records and Health Information Manager. This pivotal role offers a unique chance to establish and spearhead their Health Information Management (HIM) function from its inception. As the company experiences significant growth across various states, the successful candidate will be instrumental in constructing robust, scalable processes, influencing strategic decision-making, and upholding stringent standards of patient privacy, regulatory compliance, and exceptional patient care. If you possess a deep-seated passion for health information management, an aptitude for crafting efficient systems, and relish working within a collaborative, rapidly expanding setting, Backpack Healthcare invites you to explore this exciting opportunity.

About the Role

This position transcends a conventional medical records administration function. It presents an opportunity to build and lead a critical department within a forward-thinking health service provider. The Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end management of all medical records and the release of patient information. A significant aspect of the role involves ensuring absolute adherence to all relevant regulations, including HIPAA, state-specific healthcare laws, payer mandates, and CARF accreditation standards. The chosen candidate will have the autonomy to design and implement efficient workflows, establish comprehensive policies, and create sophisticated tracking mechanisms to monitor performance. Furthermore, they will be tasked with developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting metrics aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, data accuracy, and prompt service delivery.

The core responsibilities of the Medical Records and Health Information Manager are multifaceted and demand a strategic as well as operational approach. Key duties will include:

• Leading all aspects of medical records operations and the processes for releasing patient information.
• Ensuring strict compliance with all applicable regulations, including but not limited to HIPAA, state healthcare laws, payer requirements, and CARF standards.
• Designing, developing, and implementing scalable Health Information Management workflows, policies, and systems for tracking information.
• Creating and monitoring reporting metrics to measure and improve efficiency, accuracy, and turnaround times within the HIM function.
• Collaborating closely and effectively with internal departments such as Compliance, Legal, Clinical Operations, Technology, and Quality Assurance.
• Providing training and ongoing support to staff members concerning medical records procedures, documentation standards, and best practices for patient privacy.
• Acting as the primary subject matter expert for health information management within the organisation, offering guidance and expertise on all related matters.

What They're Looking For

Backpack Healthcare is looking for an individual with a strong foundation in health information management or a closely related field. A comprehensive understanding of HIPAA regulations and broader healthcare compliance requirements is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven track record of successfully designing and implementing efficient operational processes. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for effective collaboration and for delivering training to staff. The ability to work cohesively within a fast-paced, evolving environment is also a key attribute. Experience in a leadership or management capacity, particularly in building functions from the ground up, would be highly advantageous.

In South Africa, a role like this at a growing healthcare provider would typically fall under management or senior administrative positions. While specific salary figures are not provided, such positions often attract competitive remuneration packages, reflecting the importance of compliance, data management, and operational efficiency in healthcare. Employers range from established hospital groups and private clinics to specialised healthcare tech companies and rapidly expanding service providers like Backpack Healthcare. Career progression might lead to broader operational management roles, directorships in health informatics, or even senior compliance and quality assurance positions.

• Experience in health information management, medical records, or related field
• Strong understanding of HIPAA and healthcare regulations
• Proven ability to design and implement efficient processes
• Excellent communication and training skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment