If you enjoy working with computers, organizing data, and managing records, a career as a Medical Records Specialist could be the perfect fit. This field offers the best of both worlds—allowing you to work behind the scenes while still being an essential part of the healthcare industry.
With the healthcare sector constantly growing and offering stable, well-paying jobs, becoming a Medical Records Specialist could be an excellent career choice.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to start this career. You’ll also learn about the eligibility requirements, training options, certification details, and so on.
Moreover, we’ll discuss one approach that could make you job-ready faster without driving to a college, or without any student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
Medical Records Specialist Eligibility Requirements
To become a Medical Records Specialist, you need to meet certain educational and professional requirements. While this role does not require direct patient care, it is essential to have the right qualifications to handle sensitive medical information accurately and securely.
Here are the eligibility requirements:
- A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement to enter the field.
- Most employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program in medical records, health information technology, or electronic health records (EHRs).
- Or, have at least one year of supervised work experience in a healthcare facility, handling patient records and EHR systems.
- Lastly, employers prefer certified professionals as it demonstrates expertise and a commitment to the field. The most recognized certification for Medical Records Specialists is the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) credential, offered by the NHA.
Medical Records Specialist Training
If you want to become a Medical Records Specialist, you’ll need proper training to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for handling healthcare documentation efficiently.
There are multiple training options available, each with its own pros and cons. Let’s dive in:
Associate Degree Training
An associate’s degree in Health Information Technology or a related field is one way to become a Medical Records Specialist. The best part about these programs is that you get a university certificate, and that’s all.
These programs typically take two years to complete, which is very long and not ideal for many. Moreover, degree programs can be expensive, often costing $10,000 to $40,000, depending on the institution.
Also, there are tons of additional expenses like textbooks, lab fees, administrative fees, technology costs, transportation, parking, rent, food, and so on. All of these could lead you to student loan debt, which can take years or even decades to pay off.
Lastly, they require full-time commitment, making it difficult for those who want to enter the workforce quickly or those juggling work and personal responsibilities.
Overall, a degree program couldn’t be an ideal option for many.
Certificate Programs
In-person certificate programs offer an alternative to degree programs. These programs are shorter in duration, typically lasting a few months to a year.
However, they come with challenges like fixed class schedules, commuting requirements, and higher tuition fees. Many students struggle with balancing these programs alongside work or family commitments.
Medical Records Specialist Online Courses
For those looking for a more affordable, flexible, and quicker path, online courses are an excellent option. Online training allows you to learn at your own pace, study from anywhere, and complete the program faster than traditional options.
Additionally, online courses are often more affordable, helping you avoid student loan debt while still gaining the necessary skills for the job.
Lastly, an online course lets you gain practical experience and could become certification-ready all without the hassles of a traditional degree or certificate program.
One standout online training option is Preppy’s self-paced Electronic Health Records Specialist training program. We’ll talk about that later.
Medical Records Specialist Certification
You should get certified if you want to boost your job prospects and establish yourself as a competent Medical Records Specialist. Certification not only validates your skills but also makes you a more competitive candidate in the healthcare industry.
Read -> What Does A Medical Records Technician Do?
Among the available certifications, Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is one of the most well-recognized and popular choices among students.
Let’s know about it all:
CEHRS Exam Details
The CEHRS certification exam is designed to assess your knowledge of electronic health records, data management, compliance, and patient confidentiality regulations.
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you will have 125 minutes to complete it. To take the exam, you must visit an approved PSI testing center.
CEHRS Exam Fee
The cost to take the CEHRS exam is $125, which is separate from the cost of any training program you may enroll in.
CEHRS Certification Renewal
To maintain your CEHRS certification, you must renew it every two years. Renewal requires the completion of 10 continuing education credits along with a recertification fee.
Keeping your certification up to date ensures you stay informed about industry advancements and maintain your credibility as a Medical Records Specialist.
How To Become a Medical Records Specialist?
Medical Records Specialists’ role is crucial in maintaining accurate and secure patient information, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and supporting medical providers in delivering efficient care.
But how to get started? You must be wondering!
Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a Medical Records Specialist faster:
Step 1 -> Enroll in a Formal Training Program
The first step in your journey is to receive proper training. Employers prefer candidates with formal education in electronic health records (EHR), medical terminology, and healthcare regulations.
While traditional degree or certificate programs can take years and cost thousands of dollars. There are faster and more affordable alternatives, like an online course, to help you gain the necessary knowledge and skills in just a few months.
Step 2 -> Complete the Coursework
Once you’ve enrolled, it’s essential to complete the coursework. Many students either drop out of traditional programs or leave online courses unfinished. However, completing your training is crucial, as formal education is a key requirement for many employers.
Coursework typically covers topics like EHR systems, medical billing and coding, HIPAA regulations, and patient confidentiality. Mastering these subjects will prepare you for both real-world tasks and the Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) exam.
Step 3 -> Gain Experience Through an Externship
Hands-on experience is invaluable in this field. Some training programs offer externship opportunities, allowing you to work in a real healthcare setting.
This gives you practical experience in handling electronic health records, data management, and compliance procedures. An externship can also enhance your resume and make you a stronger job candidate.
Step 4 -> Prepare for the CEHRS Certification Exam
Once you’ve completed your training and gained some experience, it’s time to focus on certification. The CEHRS exam tests your knowledge in EHR management, healthcare compliance, medical documentation, and patient data security. To boost your chances of success, you should review exam prep materials, practice tests, and training modules.
Step 5 -> Apply for the CEHRS Certification Exam
After preparing thoroughly, you need to register for the CEHRS exam through the NHA website. You will then schedule your exam at an approved PSI testing center.
Step 6 -> Get CEHRS Certified and Explore Job Opportunities
Once you pass the CEHRS certification exam, you officially become a Certified Medical Records Specialist. This credential significantly improves your job prospects, as employers prefer certified professionals who can efficiently manage electronic health records and maintain data security.
So, by following these steps, you can become a Medical Records Specialist or Electronic Health Records Specialist in just a few months without spending years in college.
Introducing Preppy’s Self-Paced Electronic Health Records Specialist Training Program
Enrolling in the right training program is a critical step to gaining the necessary skills and knowledge. Enter the scene, Preppy!
Preppy’s program is thoughtfully designed to provide a smooth and efficient path to becoming an Electronic Health Records Specialist, offering standout features that make learning flexible, effective, and convenient.
Here’s what you get with Preppy’s Self-Paced Electronic Health Records Specialist Training Program:
100% Online and Self-Paced
With Preppy, you could study anytime, anywhere, at your own pace. So, you don’t need to attend in-person classes or adjust your daily routine. Whether you want to complete the program quickly or take your time, you have full control over your learning schedule.
Affordable Tuition
As discussed earlier, higher education can be costly, with degree programs ranging from $10,000 to $40,000 and certificate programs between $4,000 and $15,000.
However, with Preppy, you could get high-quality training for just $1,599, making it one of the most budget-friendly options available.
Faster Completion
Traditional degree programs can take years to finish, delaying your entry into the workforce. With Preppy, you could complete your training in as little as 4 months, allowing you to start your career much faster.
University Certificate
After completing the program, you receive a certificate from Auburn University—an accredited, non-profit institution known for academic excellence. This credential adds credibility to your resume and reassures employers of your qualifications.
Externship Opportunity
Preppy goes beyond online learning by offering an externship opportunity near your location. This hands-on experience allows you to apply your knowledge in a real healthcare setting, making you more confident and job-ready.
You Could Become Certification Ready
The program aligns with industry standards, equipping you with the knowledge needed, so you could sit for the CEHRS certification exam by the NHA. Becoming certified can enhance your job prospects and open up better career opportunities.
24/7 Support
You’re never alone on this journey. Whether you need academic guidance, technical assistance, or career advice, Preppy’s support team is available around the clock to help.
Exclusive Bonus
Students who pay their tuition in full receive a free laptop to support their studies. Best of all, it’s yours to keep—even after completing the program.
So, if you are looking for an affordable and fast way to start your career as a medical records specialist, Preppy’s Self-Paced Electronic Health Records Specialist Training Program could be a great choice.
In Conclusion
Becoming a Medical Records Specialist is a smart career choice for those who enjoy working with data and technology in the healthcare field.
With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and opportunities in various medical settings, it’s a career that offers both stability and advancement.
We’ve covered everything you need to know—from training and certification to how you can start this career in as little as 4 months.
Now, the next step is yours. With the right training and certification, you can start this rewarding career faster, without spending years in college or taking on student debt.
So, if you’re ready to take the first step, now is the perfect time to check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Electronic Health Records Specialist Training Program.
Also Read: Medical Records Specialists Vs. Medical Administrative Assistant
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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