A medical secretary has special training in understanding medical terminology and procedures. Health record technicians focus on creating and managing medical records.
The Cool Things They Do:
- Manage patients’ appointments, and relay information between doctors and patients
- Write correspondence, case histories and other medical records
- Manage patients’ confidential medical records
- Manage billing, medical insurance and financial documents
Health Record Technician:
- Manage patient records
- Analyze records for the purposes of medical research, budgeting, insurance estimates or court cases
Working Conditions:
Medical secretaries and health record technicians work closely with other healthcare professionals—usually in doctors' offices, hospitals or clinics. The job requires little physical strength and much of the work is performed while seated in front of a computer. Their office duties are usually carried out during regular business hours, but some may be required to work evenings and weekends.
Most Medical Secretaries and Health Record Technicians Work In:
- Doctors’ offices
- Hospitals and clinics
- Government departments and agencies
- Pharmaceutical and insurance companies
- Community care access centers
Personal Characteristics/Skills:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Good interpersonal skills
- Highly organized with the ability to give great attention to detail
- Good computer skills
Education and Training Required (for Canada) :
High School or College Diploma
Length of Study/Training (for Canada) : 1-3 years post-secondary
Certification (s) (for Canada) :
All Provinces: Health Records Technicians must be certified by the Canadian Health Record Association
Helpful High School Courses:
- Math
- Biology
- English
- Computer Basics
Employment Prospects - GOOD
Canada’s aging population requires an ever-increasing supply of medical services. There is a constant demand for medical secretaries and health records technicians.
Earnings:
Average annual
income for medical secretaries and health
records technicians: $35,000 to $50,000
and can vary greatly depending on experience,
location and place of employment.
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