Medical Records Clerk Career Guide
A Medical Records Clerk (also called medical records technician or health information clerk) manages patient records and documentation within hospitals, clinics, or physician offices. Day-to-day tasks include filing and indexing paper and electronic records, scanning and converting files to electronic health record (EHR) systems, retrieving charts for clinicians, ensuring records are complete and accurate, processing requests for release of information under privacy regulations (HIPAA), updating demographic and insurance data, resolving discrepancies, and supporting audits and internal reporting. The role requires attention to detail, confidentiality, and routine interaction with clinical and administrative teams to maintain efficient information flow.
What skills does a Medical Records Clerk need?
How do I become a Medical Records Clerk?
Learn the Basics
Study medical terminology, basic anatomy, and health information fundamentals through a certificate program, community college course, or online training to build foundational knowledge.
Gain Technical Skills
Get hands-on practice with EHR systems, records management software, and scanning/indexing tools. Short vendor courses or simulated labs help you demonstrate software competence.
Obtain Relevant Certifications
Earn entry-level credentials like Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) or Certified Coding Associate (CCA) where applicable. These boost credibility and passing screening filters.
Build Practical Experience
Pursue internships, volunteer roles, or entry-level positions (medical office assistant, records clerk assistant) to gain experience with record flow, release-of-information requests, and HIPAA compliance.
Apply and Specialize
Target job openings in hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices. Consider specializing in release of information, coding, or health information auditing to increase earning potential and career mobility.
What education do you need to become a Medical Records Clerk?
Typical paths include a high school diploma or GED plus a short-term certificate in medical records/health information (3–12 months) or an associate degree in Health Information Management (1–2 years) for broader opportunities. Employers may hire candidates with on-the-job training if they have strong computer skills and familiarity with medical terminology. Continuing education in EHR software and privacy laws is highly recommended.
Recommended Certifications for Medical Records Clerks
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) — National Healthcareer Association
- Certified Coding Associate (CCA) — AAPC
- Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) — AHIMA (for associate degree holders)
- HIPAA Privacy and Security Training (vendor or employer-based certificates)
Medical Records Clerk Job Outlook & Demand
Demand for medical records clerks and health information support staff is expected to remain steady to moderately growing over the next decade as healthcare organizations expand services, transition to electronic health records, and manage increasing amounts of patient data. Opportunities are strongest in outpatient clinics, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and health IT vendors. Roles requiring EHR expertise and knowledge of privacy laws will be most in demand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Medical Records Clerk
What does a Medical Records Clerk do?
A Medical Records Clerk organizes, maintains, and retrieves patient records, ensures accuracy and confidentiality, indexes documents, and supports clinical staff with record access and release of information.
How long does it take to become a Medical Records Clerk?
You can start in 3–12 months with a certificate or on-the-job training; an associate degree or HIPAA and health information coursework usually takes 1–2 years and improves hiring prospects.
What certifications help get hired as a Medical Records Clerk?
Entry and mid-level credentials include Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) for broader roles, and Certified Coding Associate (CCA) if coding tasks are required.
Do Medical Records Clerks need coding skills?
Basic understanding of medical coding and terminology is often required or preferred to accurately classify records and support billing; advanced coding is usually handled by certified coders.
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