Top 10 Questions for Health Information Clerk Interview

1. Explain the process of abstracting medical records?

First, I read through the entire medical record to get a general understanding of the patient’s condition and treatment. Then, I identify the key elements of the record, such as the patient’s demographics, history of present illness, physical examination findings, laboratory results, and treatment plan. I then extract this information and summarize it concisely and accurately in the abstract. Finally, I proofread the abstract carefully to ensure that it is complete and error-free.

2. What are the different types of medical records?

Patient medical records

• Paper records
• Electronic records

Administrative records

• Billing records
• Insurance records

Research records

• Clinical trial data
• Patient outcomes data

3. What are the confidentiality and security regulations that apply to health information?

• The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996
• The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) of 2009
• The Omnibus Rule of 2013

4. What are the different ways to access medical records?

• In person
• By mail
• Electronically

5. How do you handle requests for medical records from patients?

• I verify the patient’s identity.
• I explain the process for requesting medical records.
• I help the patient complete the request form.
• I submit the request to the appropriate department.
• I follow up with the patient to ensure that they receive their records.

6. How do you handle requests for medical records from other healthcare providers?

• I verify the provider’s identity.
• I obtain a written request for the records.
• I ensure that the request complies with HIPAA regulations.
• I release the records to the provider.

7. What are the different types of medical record audits?

• Internal audits
• External audits
• Government audits

8. What are the key elements of a successful medical record audit?

• Clear audit objectives
• A detailed audit plan
• Qualified auditors
• Access to relevant records
• A thorough review of the records
• Accurate reporting of findings

9. What are the common errors that you find during medical record audits?

• Missing or incomplete documentation
• Inaccurate or illegible documentation
• Non-compliance with HIPAA regulations
• Breaches of patient confidentiality

10. How do you ensure the quality of medical records?

• I train staff on HIPAA regulations and best practices for medical record keeping.
• I conduct regular medical record audits.
• I provide feedback to staff on their performance.
• I implement policies and procedures to improve the quality of medical records.

Health Information Clerks perform a range of administrative duties to manage and maintain patient health information, ensuring its accuracy, confidentiality, and availability.

1. Patient Registration and Intake

Process patient intake by registering new patients, collecting demographic and insurance information, and scheduling appointments.

• Verify patient identity and eligibility.
• Create and maintain patient records.

2. Document Management

Receive and process medical records, ensuring their completeness and accuracy.

• Scan and index medical records into electronic systems.
• File and retrieve patient records as needed.

3. Release of Information

Respond to requests for patient health information, adhering to HIPAA regulations.

• Verify the legitimacy of requests.
• Prepare and release authorized health information.

4. Quality Assurance

Maintain the integrity and accuracy of health information by reviewing and verifying data.

• Identify and correct errors in patient records.
• Monitor compliance with regulatory standards.

To prepare for your interview, it’s essential to:

1. Research the Organization and Position

Demonstrate knowledge of the healthcare organization you’re applying to and the specific job responsibilities.

• Visit the organization’s website to learn about its mission, services, and culture.
• Review the job description thoroughly.

2. Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills

Emphasize your experience in patient registration, document management, or release of information.

• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible using specific numbers or metrics.
• Use examples from previous roles to demonstrate your skills.

3. Prepare for Behavioral Interview Questions

Interviewers often use behavioral interview questions to assess your problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

• Recall specific situations where you demonstrated these abilities.
• Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to answer these questions.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Engaging interviewers by asking well-prepared questions shows your interest and professionalism.

• Ask about the organization’s plans for growth or the specific role’s potential for advancement.
• Inquire about the work culture or the organization’s commitment to patient care.