Health Information Technician

Location: WC Annex NW MSFLD

Type: Full-time 40 hrs/week - WRS Eligible

WHAT WE OFFER: In addition to who we are, Wood County team members are offered competitive salaries, flexible schedules, and excellent benefits, including: Health Insurance - we offer low premiums and low deductibles, with excellent coverage! Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) - This is one of the best-funded public pension plans in the U.S.!457 deferred compensation plan Vacation and Sick Time - Start accruing for both on your first day!10 Paid Holidays Flexible Spending Account to set aside pre-tax dollars for childcare and medical expenses Life Insurance Short and Long-Term Disability Wellness Incentive PlanPublic Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program Purpose of Position: The Health Information Technician (HIT) supports the daily operations of the Health Information Department by maintaining accurate patient health records, managing release-of-information processes, coordinating insurance verification and authorizations, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The HIT works under the supervision of the Health Information Supervisor and is expected to maintain reliable attendance and adhere to all Norwood Health Center and Wood County policies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Release of Information & Regulatory Compliance: Release protected health information (PHI) in strict accordance with HIPAA, state statutes, and internal privacy policies. Apply working knowledge of regulatory standards to ensure compliant disclosure and documentation practices.

Chart Management & Documentation Quality: Assemble and analyze paper medical records following patient discharge, identifying documentation deficiencies and ensuring timely provider completion. Conduct detailed quality review of provider documentation for accuracy, clarity, grammar, and compliance; enter information into the electronic health record (EHR).Scan, file, and maintain PHI across paper and electronic systems with high accuracy and organization.

Insurance Verification & Authorization Coordination: Verify Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial insurance eligibility through multiple databases to support accurate billing and service authorization. Initiate, monitor, and manage authorizations for inpatient services. Address and resolve barriers related to payer-specific requirements, HIM processes, and Medicaid regulations. Meet with patients to provide clarification on insurance benefits, coverage status, or billing concerns. Track authorization lifecycles, last covered days (LCDs), and coverage deadlines, ensuring timely action to prevent gaps in reimbursement. Complete all discharge-related documentation within the EHR to support accurate claims processing.

Coverage Coordination, Peer Reviews, and Appeals: Facilitate peer-to-peer review calls between facility providers and insurance representatives to support determinations of medical necessity. Collaborate with Admissions and Billing to coordinate patient coverage, communicate payer updates, and ensure unified workflows. Initiate and complete appeal processes for denied admissions or denied continued stays, ensuring submission of all required supporting documentation.

Departmental and Organizational Responsibilities: Follow all Health Information Department and Norwood Health Center policies and procedures to ensure regulatory and operational compliance. Attend mandatory trainings and maintain required competencies. Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to Wood County safety policies and protocols. Exemplify Wood County Core Values in all interactions and responsibilities and serve with courtesy and respect in accordance with the Wood County Code of Conduct.

Additional Tasks and Responsibilities: While the following tasks are necessary for the work of the unit, they are not essential duties and may be performed by other staff members. Participate in in-service sessions and staff development training as assigned. Perform additional clerical or departmental duties as needed to support operations.

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, QUALIFICATIONSEducation and Experience: High school diploma or equivalent required. One year of clerical experience preferred. Previous health information experience preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of all protected health information. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and MatrixCare; ability to learn system updates and new technologies. Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all work processes. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision and adapt to evolving departmental needs.

Physical Requirements of Essential Functions: Ability to sit for extended periods and perform computer-based work. Frequent movement between sitting and standing positions. Occasional lifting, bending, and carrying of files or office materials. Frequent repetitive hand and finger motions while typing and handling documents. Ability to communicate clearly verbally and comprehend spoken communication.