Health Information Management (HIM) Technician at Sanford Health - Sioux Falls, SD

Are you a detail-oriented individual with a passion for healthcare and data management? Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is seeking a dedicated and skilled Health Information Management (HIM) Technician to join our team. This full-time position at our Long-Term Care (LTC) facility, SF Village, offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the accuracy and efficiency of patient care while advancing your career within a leading healthcare system.

Role Overview

As an HIM Technician, you will play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and completeness of patient medical records. Your primary responsibilities will involve analyzing medical records for missing documentation, comparing documentation against established standards, and entering deficiencies into the electronic medical record (EMR) system. You will also be responsible for abstracting relevant data, ensuring accurate coding, and processing release of information (ROI) requests in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Your work will directly impact the quality of patient care and the efficiency of healthcare operations.

A Day in the Life of an HIM Technician

Here’s a glimpse into your daily routine as an HIM Technician at Sanford Health:

• Morning: Arrive at the SF Village LTC facility and prepare for the day's tasks. Begin by reviewing newly discharged patient records for completeness and accuracy.
• Record Analysis: Systematically analyze medical records, identifying any missing signatures, reports, or other required documentation. Compare the documentation against regulatory standards and Sanford Health's policies.
• EMR Updates: Enter any identified deficiencies into the EMR system, notifying the appropriate providers. Follow up on outstanding deficiencies to ensure timely completion.
• Data Abstraction: Abstract key data elements from patient records, such as diagnoses, procedures, and medications, for reporting and analysis purposes.
• Afternoon: Focus on processing release of information (ROI) requests, ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations and Sanford Health policies. Verify the identity of the requestor and the validity of the request.
• Coding: Review medical documentation to assign accurate diagnostic codes for billing purposes. Stay updated on coding guidelines and changes to ensure compliance.
• Quality Checks: Conduct quality checks on scanned documents to ensure clarity and accuracy. Index documents correctly in the document imaging system.
• Reporting: Prepare reports on medical record deficiencies, ROI activity, and other relevant metrics.
• Collaboration: Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and administrators, to resolve documentation issues and ensure accurate patient records.

Why Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

Sioux Falls offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Here are a few reasons why Sioux Falls is a great place to live and work:

• Affordable Living: Sioux Falls boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget further.
• Thriving Job Market: The healthcare industry is booming in Sioux Falls, with Sanford Health and other major providers offering numerous employment opportunities.
• Quality Education: Sioux Falls is home to several excellent schools and universities, providing ample educational opportunities for you and your family.
• Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating, in the numerous parks and recreational areas surrounding Sioux Falls.
• Arts and Culture: Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, theaters, and art galleries offering a diverse range of entertainment options.
• Friendly Community: Experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Sioux Falls, where neighbors know each other and community involvement is highly valued.

Career Path

Sanford Health is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for growth and advancement. As an HIM Technician, you can advance your career by:

• Pursuing Certifications: Obtain certifications in Health Information Management (HIM) or related fields to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Specializing in Coding: Develop expertise in medical coding and become a certified coder.
• Advancing to Supervisory Roles: Take on leadership responsibilities by becoming a team lead or supervisor in the HIM department.
• Transitioning to Other HIM Roles: Explore other HIM roles, such as privacy officer or data analyst, based on your interests and skills.

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is estimated to be between $32,000 and $45,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plan: Company-matched 401(k) plan to help you save for retirement.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off (PTO) policy for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Education Assistance: Tuition reimbursement and other educational assistance programs to support your professional development.
• Other Benefits: Life insurance, disability insurance, employee assistance program, and other valuable benefits.

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is committed to creating a positive and supportive work environment for its employees. We value:

• Teamwork: We believe in working together to achieve our goals.
• Respect: We treat each other with respect and dignity.
• Integrity: We are committed to ethical and honest behavior.
• Innovation: We encourage innovation and creativity.
• Compassion: We care about our patients and their families.

At the Sioux Falls Village, our vision is to lovingly provide quality, dependable care at just the right time. Join us and help us accomplish this!

How to Apply

If you are a qualified and motivated individual seeking a rewarding career in Health Information Management, we encourage you to apply for the HIM Technician position at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls, SD. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the essential qualifications for this position?

   The essential qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of medical terminology, experience with electronic medical records (EMR), and a strong attention to detail.

2. Is prior experience in a healthcare setting required?

   Prior experience in a healthcare setting is preferred but not required. We are willing to train motivated individuals who are eager to learn.

3. What are the working hours for this position?

   This is a full-time position with 8-hour day shifts. Scheduled weekly hours are 40.

4. What is the dress code for HIM Technicians?

   The dress code is business casual. Comfortable and professional attire is encouraged.

5. What opportunities for professional development are available?

   Sanford Health offers various opportunities for professional development, including tuition reimbursement, certification programs, and leadership training.

6. How does Sanford Health support employee well-being?

   Sanford Health provides a comprehensive employee assistance program (EAP) that offers confidential counseling, resources, and support services to help employees manage stress and maintain their well-being.

7. What is the typical career path for an HIM Technician at Sanford Health?

   An HIM Technician can advance their career by pursuing certifications, specializing in coding, or transitioning to supervisory roles within the HIM department.

8. What is Sanford Health's policy on work-life balance?

   Sanford Health recognizes the importance of work-life balance and offers flexible scheduling options and generous paid time off to help employees manage their personal and professional responsibilities.

9. What is the company culture like at Sanford Health?

   Sanford Health is known for its teamwork, respect, integrity, innovation, and compassion. We strive to create a positive and supportive work environment for all employees.

10. What are the benefits of working in the Long-Term Care (LTC) setting at SF Village?

    Working in the LTC setting at SF Village offers the opportunity to provide compassionate care to residents, build meaningful relationships, and make a positive impact on their lives.