Quality Abstractor at WVU Medicine: A Comprehensive Overview

Are you a detail-oriented healthcare professional with a knack for data and a passion for quality improvement? WVU Medicine is seeking a dedicated Quality Abstractor to join our team at Summersville Regional Medical Center (SRMC) and Braxton County Memorial Hospital (BCMH). This role is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of our healthcare data, which directly impacts patient care and organizational performance. In this comprehensive overview, we'll delve into the specifics of the Quality Abstractor position, exploring the daily responsibilities, career path, benefits, and more, providing you with a clear picture of what it means to be a part of the WVU Medicine family.

Role Overview

As a Quality Abstractor, you will be at the forefront of data collection and analysis, playing a vital role in maintaining the integrity of our healthcare databases. Your primary responsibility will involve abstracting specific data elements from discharged patient records, compiling them into an aggregate database used for quality and utilization review. Additionally, you'll be responsible for collecting data on patients for reporting to the applicable state registry, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and deadlines.

This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work independently while adhering to established guidelines and protocols. You will collaborate with various healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and administrators, to ensure the accuracy and completeness of data.

A Day in the Life of a Quality Abstractor

Here's a glimpse into what a typical day might look like for a Quality Abstractor at WVU Medicine:

• Morning: Arrive at the office and review the daily schedule. Check for any updates or changes in abstracting guidelines or regulatory requirements.
• Data Abstraction: Begin abstracting data from discharged patient records, focusing on specific data elements required for quality review and state reporting.
• Database Management: Utilize the abstract system to accurately enter data, ensuring completeness and consistency.
• Quality Checks: Participate in ongoing data quality studies, identifying and correcting any discrepancies or errors.
• Afternoon: Prepare statistical reports for the manager/director, providing insights into key performance indicators and areas for improvement.
• Collaboration: Answer questions and provide assistance to hospital personnel and medical staff members regarding data collection and system guidelines.
• Compliance: Ensure all data abstraction and reporting activities comply with HIPAA regulations and maintain patient confidentiality.
• Documentation: Maintain a daily productivity log, tracking work completed and any challenges encountered.

Why Summersville and Gassaway, West Virginia?

Summersville and Gassaway offer a unique blend of small-town charm and access to outdoor recreational opportunities. Located in the heart of West Virginia, these communities provide a welcoming environment for individuals and families alike.

Summersville is known for its proximity to Summersville Lake, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The town also boasts a vibrant downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and community events.

Gassaway offers a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community. Nestled in the Elk River Valley, the town is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

Both Summersville and Gassaway provide a lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while pursuing your career goals. The communities also offer access to quality schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services.

Career Path for a Quality Abstractor at WVU Medicine

WVU Medicine is committed to providing opportunities for professional growth and development. As a Quality Abstractor, you can advance your career through various pathways, including:

• Senior Quality Abstractor: With experience and demonstrated expertise, you can progress to a Senior Quality Abstractor role, taking on more complex abstraction tasks and mentoring junior team members.
• Data Analyst: Develop your analytical skills and transition into a Data Analyst position, where you will be responsible for analyzing healthcare data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement.
• Quality Improvement Specialist: Leverage your knowledge of data and quality metrics to become a Quality Improvement Specialist, leading initiatives to enhance patient care and organizational performance.
• Management: With leadership skills and experience, you can advance to a management role, overseeing a team of Quality Abstractors and contributing to the strategic direction of the department.

Salary and Benefits

WVU Medicine offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The estimated salary range for a Quality Abstractor in Summersville and Gassaway, West Virginia, is between $40,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

In addition to a competitive salary, WVU Medicine provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Prescription drug coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) or health savings accounts (HSA)
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Wellness programs
• Tuition reimbursement or assistance for continuing education
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee discounts on hospital services and products

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is more than just a healthcare provider; we are a family of dedicated professionals committed to providing the best possible care to our patients and communities. Our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, respect, and continuous improvement.

We value our employees and provide a supportive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed. We encourage collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in all that we do.

How to Apply

If you are ready to join the WVU Medicine family and contribute to our mission of providing high-quality healthcare, we encourage you to apply for the Quality Abstractor position today. To apply, click the "Apply" button located at the top of this page and complete the application in full.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for the Quality Abstractor position?

   A high school diploma or equivalent and one year of experience in a healthcare-related field or abstracting are required.

2. Is experience with abstracting systems required?

   Experience with abstracting systems is preferred but not required. Training will be provided.

3. What are the key responsibilities of a Quality Abstractor?

   Key responsibilities include abstracting medical records, entering data into the abstract system, participating in data quality studies, and reporting data to state agencies.

4. What skills are important for success in this role?

   Important skills include attention to detail, analytical skills, communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

5. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   Career advancement opportunities include Senior Quality Abstractor, Data Analyst, Quality Improvement Specialist, and Management roles.

6. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer?

   WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, and tuition reimbursement.

7. What is the work environment like at WVU Medicine?

   WVU Medicine provides a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are valued and encouraged to grow.

8. Is knowledge of medical terminology required?

   Knowledge of medical terminology is preferred but not required. Training will be provided.

9. How does this role contribute to patient care?

   This role contributes to patient care by ensuring the accuracy and integrity of healthcare data, which is used to improve quality and utilization of services.

10. What is the dress code for this position?

    The dress code is business casual. Specific details will be provided during the onboarding process.