Overview of Sinclair Memorial Hospital

1. Facility Statistics:
   • Average of 6,300 inpatient visits and 17,000 emergency visits per year.
   • Offers numerous services including community health and cancer care.

HIM Department Structure and Processes

1. HIM Department Security:

   • Located in a public area but with restricted access.
   • Entry requires ID badges with appropriate permissions.

2. Patient Records Lifecycle:

   • Patient information begins with the emergency room and progresses through various providers.
   • Unique medical record numbers are assigned to each patient and different account numbers for each hospital encounter.

3. Document Handling:

   • Scanning process involves prepping, scanning, and indexing documents.
   • QA plays a vital role in ensuring that records match patients properly.

Key Roles in HIM

1. Record Analysis:

   • HIM professionals verify the completion of medical records, identify deficiencies, and ensure compliance with standards.

2. Coding Professionals:

   • Coders assign diagnostic and procedural codes, crucial for hospital revenue.

3. Release of Information (ROI):

   • The ROI team ensures the release of medical information is authorized while safeguarding patient privacy.

4. Compliance and Security:

   • The privacy officer oversees compliance with health information access regulations.

5. Data Quality Management:

   • Data quality managers focus on maintaining compliance in documentation to avoid inaccuracies in coding and reimbursement.

Career Opportunities

1. Diverse Career Paths:
   • HIM offers roles in coding, privacy, data analysis, and patient information management, all contributing to the healthcare system's efficiency.