Step By Step Guide To Become A Medical Records Technician In Iowa 2025
Step 1: Complete Your High School Education
To begin your path towards becoming a Medical Records Technician in Iowa, start with obtaining a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate. A solid foundation in subjects like biology, health, computer science, and mathematics is beneficial.
Step 2: Obtain Postsecondary Education
Next, pursue a postsecondary education. Iowa mandates that potential Medical Records Technicians have at least a certificate or an associate degree in Health Information Technology (HIT) or a related field. Many community colleges and technical schools in Iowa offer programs tailored to this career.
Program Example
- Institution: Des Moines Area Community College
- Program: Health Information Technology A.A.S.
- Duration: 2 years
- Cost: Approximately $5,400 per year
Step 3: Acquire Professional Certification
After your education, earn a professional certification. While not state-mandated, obtaining a certification, such as Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), increases employment prospects. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers the RHIT certification.
Certification Requirements:
- Eligibility: Graduation from a CAHIIM-accredited program
- Exam Fee: $229 for AHIMA members, $299 for non-members
- Application: Apply through AHIMA's official website
Step 4: Understand Iowa State Regulations
Familiarize yourself with Iowa-specific regulations for Medical Records Technicians. Regulations govern patient privacy, electronic health records, and information security.
- Resource: Visit the Iowa Department of Public Health's official website for comprehensive information on health information management laws.
Step 5: Gain Experience through Internships or Entry-level Positions
Engage in internships or entry-level positions to gain practical experience. Many programs in Iowa include internships as part of their curriculum. You can also seek positions such as medical office assistant or health information clerk to build relevant skills.
Step 6: Apply for Medical Records Technician Positions
Once qualified, you can begin applying for positions across Iowa. Health maintenance organizations, hospitals, private practices, and clinics are frequent employers of Medical Records Technicians.
Step 7: Maintain Certification and Pursue Continuing Education
Maintain your professional certification by fulfilling continuing education requirements. For RHIT certification, AHIMA requires completion of 20 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years. Continuing education ensures you stay updated on the latest in health information technology and management.
Step 8: Explore Advancement Opportunities
Consider pursuing further education or additional certifications for career advancement. For instance, obtaining a Bachelor's or Master's degree could lead to roles such as Health Information Manager or Compliance Auditor. Aim to enhance your skills in coding, data analysis, and health statistics for broader opportunities.