Release of Information Specialist

Meritus Health External•Hagerstown, MD

About The Position

At Meritus Health, the Release of Information Specialist protects confidential health information while ensuring patients, providers, attorneys, and insurance partners receive requested records accurately, securely, and in a timely manner. The role processes requests for protected health information in accordance with hospital policies, HIPAA regulations, and federal and state requirements. It reviews authorization, determines what information may be released, retrieves and distributes medical records through electronic systems, and helps requesters understand the process. The specialist uses sound judgment when handling legal, regulatory, and privacy considerations, manages competing priorities in a fast-paced environment, and collaborates with healthcare professionals and administrative teams to meet deadlines and customer needs. The position calls for an organized, detail-oriented, technology-capable professional with strong communication and customer service skills. It requires a high school diploma or GED and at least two years of Release of Information experience in a healthcare setting. An associate degree in a related field and knowledge of medical terminology are preferred. The role requires computer proficiency and the ability to work at a computer for extended periods, handle interruptions and changing priorities, and exercise discretion with sensitive information. Meritus Health describes its work environment as collaborative and caring, emphasizing warm welcomes, hospitality-driven interactions, and helping others. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, paid time off accruing from day one, a 401(k) plan, education assistance, and an employee assistance program. Employees on evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least two years of Release of Information experience in a healthcare setting.
Computer proficiency and keyboarding skills.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Ability to alphabetize, file, and sequence records and documentation accurately.
Ability to use computer systems and work at a computer for extended periods.
Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment with interruptions and changing priorities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong customer service and public relations skills, including professional phone etiquette.
Sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive information.
Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Medical Office Technology, Medical Office Systems, Medical Secretarial Science, Health Information Technology, or a related field.
Knowledge of medical terminology.

Responsibilities

Process and manage protected health information requests in compliance with hospital policies, HIPAA, and federal and state requirements.
Review requests for proper authorization and determine what information may be released.
Retrieve, compile, and securely distribute medical records using electronic systems and other technologies.
Assist patients, providers, attorneys, insurance companies, and internal departments with medical record requests.
Protect patient confidentiality by releasing information only to authorized individuals.
Use independent judgment regarding legal, regulatory, and privacy requirements.
Manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and customer service.
Collaborate with healthcare professionals and administrative teams to meet deadlines and customer needs.