25 Health Information Technician Interview Questions and Answers

A health information technician, also called a medical records technician, is responsible for organizing and maintaining the medical records of patients in a hospital or clinic. This important job ensures that the medical staff has quick and easy access to a patient’s history, which is essential for providing quality care.

To become a health information technician, you need to have at least a postsecondary certificate. However, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have an associate’s degree in health information technology. No matter your level of education, you’ll need to ace a job interview before you’re hired.

In this guide, you’ll find several sample questions and answers, including health information technician interview questions and answers for entry-level and experienced candidates.

1. Are you comfortable working in a medical environment?

Working as a health information technician can involve working in a medical environment. Employers ask this question to make sure you are comfortable with the work environment and that it fits your personality. Before your interview, think about what kind of work environment you prefer. Consider how your preferences align with the job’s requirements.

Example: “Absolutely! I have been working in the health information field for over five years and am very comfortable with medical terminology, processes, and protocols. I am also familiar with a variety of electronic health records (EHR) systems and understand how to use them effectively. In addition, I have experience in coding diagnoses and procedures using ICD-10 and CPT codes. Finally, I’m well versed in HIPAA regulations and patient privacy laws, so I can ensure that all data is kept secure and confidential.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a health information technician to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they relate to working as a health information technician.

Example: “As a Health Information Technician, I believe there are three key skills that are essential for success in this role.

The first is an understanding of medical terminology and coding systems. As a health information technician, it’s important to be able to accurately interpret and code patient records according to the appropriate standards. This requires a thorough knowledge of medical terms and abbreviations as well as familiarity with various coding systems such as ICD-10 and CPT.

The second skill is strong organizational abilities. In order to ensure accuracy and efficiency when managing patient records, it’s critical to have excellent organizational skills. This includes being able to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects at once, and stay on top of deadlines.

Lastly, it’s important to have good communication skills. A health information technician must be able to effectively communicate with other healthcare professionals, patients, and their families. This involves being able to explain complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, as well as having the ability to listen carefully and ask questions when necessary.”

3. How would you describe the role of a health information technician to someone who is unfamiliar with the profession?

This question is an opportunity to explain what you do as a health information technician and why it’s important. You can use this question to highlight your knowledge of the profession, its responsibilities and how it benefits patients.

Example: “The role of a health information technician is an important one in the healthcare industry. As a health information technician, I am responsible for maintaining and managing patient medical records. This includes collecting, organizing, and analyzing data from medical records to ensure accuracy and completeness. My job also involves coding diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement purposes, as well as ensuring that all medical records are kept up-to-date and compliant with regulations.

In addition to these duties, I must also be able to identify trends in patient care and recommend changes or improvements to enhance quality of care. Finally, I must be knowledgeable about privacy laws and regulations, such as HIPAA, to protect patient confidentiality.”

4. What is your experience with working with medical records and databases?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with working in a health information management department. Your answer should include examples of how you organized and maintained medical records, as well as any software or database systems you used to complete these tasks.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with medical records and databases. I have been a Health Information Technician for the past five years, where I was responsible for maintaining patient records in both electronic and paper form. I am well-versed in coding and classifying diagnoses and procedures according to established standards, as well as entering data into various databases.

I have also worked closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date. In addition, I have experience creating reports from these databases, which are then used by administrators and clinicians to make decisions about patient care. Finally, I have trained new staff members on how to properly use the database systems and maintain medical records.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to provide a physician with a patient’s complete medical history.

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work with others and communicate effectively. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you worked with a physician or other medical professional to help them understand the patient’s complete medical history.

Example: “I recently had an experience where I was tasked with providing a physician with a patient’s complete medical history. To do this, I first gathered all of the relevant information from the patient’s electronic health record and paper records. This included their past diagnoses, treatments, medications, allergies, lab results, and any other pertinent information.

Once I had collected all of the necessary data, I organized it into a comprehensive report that outlined the patient’s entire medical history. I then provided the physician with the report so they could review it and make informed decisions about the patient’s care. Finally, I followed up with the physician to ensure that they had received the report and were able to use it effectively.”

6. If a patient had visited multiple physicians without receiving a diagnosis, what would you do to help find the cause?

This question can help interviewers understand how you would use your skills to benefit patients. Use examples from previous experience or explain what you would do if this situation occurred in the future.

Example: “If a patient had visited multiple physicians without receiving a diagnosis, I would take the time to review all of their medical records. I would look for any patterns or commonalities between the visits that could help identify potential causes. I would also research any new treatments or therapies that may have been developed since the patient’s last visit. Finally, I would contact each physician and ask questions about the patient’s history and symptoms in order to gain more insight into what might be causing the issue.

My experience as a Health Information Technician has taught me how to effectively analyze medical records and use them to uncover potential diagnoses. I am confident that my skills and knowledge will help me find the cause of this patient’s condition.”

7. What would you do if you noticed two patients had the same name in their records?

This question is a test of your attention to detail and ability to solve problems. It also shows the interviewer how you would handle conflict between patients. In your answer, explain that you would first try to contact both patients to confirm their information before making any changes. If they cannot be reached, you would make sure to update all records with the correct information.

Example: “If I noticed two patients had the same name in their records, my first step would be to review the patient’s demographic information. This includes verifying their date of birth, address, and other identifying information. If this information is different, then it is likely that the two patients are not the same person.

If the demographic information matches, then I would look at the medical history of each patient to determine if there is any additional information that could help differentiate between them. For example, one may have a longer medical history or a more detailed list of medications than the other.

Once I have identified which patient is which, I would update the record accordingly and make sure all future documentation is properly labeled with the correct patient information. Finally, I would document my findings in the patient’s chart so that others can easily identify the difference between the two patients.”

8. How well do you perform under pressure?

Employers ask this question to see if you can handle the pressure of working in a hospital setting. They want to know that you are able to work quickly and accurately under stress. When answering, explain how you have performed well under pressure in the past. Provide an example from your previous job or school experience.

Example: “I believe I perform very well under pressure. In my current role as a Health Information Technician, I am often required to work quickly and accurately in order to meet deadlines. I have developed strong organizational skills that allow me to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects at once. I also stay calm and focused when faced with tight timelines or difficult challenges.

In addition, I have experience working in high-pressure environments such as emergency rooms and hospital wards. This has taught me how to remain composed and professional while dealing with stressful situations. I understand the importance of accuracy and efficiency in these types of settings, so I take extra care to ensure that all information is entered correctly and promptly.”

9. Do you have experience working with paper records as well as digital databases?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with both paper and digital records. It can also show them how well you adapt to new technology. Use your answer to highlight any previous experience you may have working with paper records, as well as your ability to learn new systems quickly.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with both paper records and digital databases. In my current role as a Health Information Technician, I am responsible for managing patient health information in both physical and electronic formats. I understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to maintaining these records, so I take great care to ensure that all data is entered correctly and securely stored. My experience includes creating and updating medical records, coding diagnoses and procedures, and ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations. I also have experience using various software programs to manage patient records, such as EHRs, billing systems, and analytics tools.”

10. When consulting with a physician, how do you make sure your communication is clear and concise?

This question can help interviewers understand how you interact with others in your role. Your answer should show that you value the opinions of physicians and other medical professionals, while also demonstrating your ability to communicate clearly and effectively.

Example: “When consulting with a physician, I always strive to make sure my communication is clear and concise. To do this, I take the time to listen carefully to the physician’s needs and questions before responding. This allows me to understand their specific requirements and provide them with accurate information. I also use simple language that is easy to understand and avoid technical jargon as much as possible. Finally, I ensure that all of my communications are well organized and include only relevant information. By following these steps, I am able to provide physicians with the necessary information in an efficient and effective manner.”

11. We want to improve our data entry processes. Describe the steps you would take to improve data entry efficiency.

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work as part of a team. Your answer should include steps you would take to improve efficiency, but also how you would communicate with other members of the team about changes that need to be made.

Example: “I believe that data entry processes should be efficient and accurate. To improve data entry efficiency, I would first assess the current process to identify any areas of improvement. This could include analyzing how long it takes to complete a task, what type of errors are being made, and if there is an opportunity for automation.

Once I have identified potential improvements, I would then develop a plan to implement them. This could involve introducing new technologies or software, creating more detailed procedures, and training staff on best practices. I am also experienced in developing quality assurance programs which can help ensure accuracy and consistency in data entry.”

12. Describe your experience with using medical software.

This question can help the interviewer determine your comfort level with using medical software and how you’ve used it in the past. Use examples from previous experience to show that you’re familiar with the software and have used it successfully.

Example: “I have extensive experience using medical software. I am currently a Health Information Technician and have been for the past five years. During this time, I have become proficient in several different types of medical software programs. For example, I have used Epic, Cerner, Allscripts, and Meditech to manage patient records, create reports, and generate billing statements.

In addition to my professional experience, I have also completed several courses related to medical software. These courses have helped me gain an even deeper understanding of how to use these systems efficiently and effectively. My knowledge has allowed me to troubleshoot common issues that arise with medical software and provide technical support when needed.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your most relevant experience and soft skills.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my extensive experience and knowledge in the field. As a Health Information Technician, I have worked in many different settings including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. I have also obtained certifications from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) as well as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

My expertise includes working with electronic health records (EHRs), coding medical diagnoses, and managing patient information. I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which allows me to effectively manage multiple tasks at once while ensuring accuracy. Furthermore, I possess excellent communication skills that allow me to collaborate with other healthcare professionals and provide quality customer service.”

14. Which medical databases are you most familiar with?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with specific databases. You can answer this question by naming a database you have used in previous positions and briefly describing what it is and how you use it.

Example: “I am very familiar with the most commonly used medical databases, such as Epic and Cerner. I have been using these systems for several years in my current role, so I am well-versed in their features and capabilities. In addition to those two, I also have experience working with Allscripts, Meditech, and McKesson.

I understand how important it is to be able to quickly access patient information from a reliable source, which is why I make sure to stay up to date on all of the latest database technologies. I am comfortable troubleshooting any issues that may arise when working with these databases, and I am confident that I can provide an efficient and secure way to store and retrieve patient data.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of maintaining accurate medical records?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you understand the importance of accuracy in medical records. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you ensured accurate information was recorded and how this helped patients or other staff members.

Example: “Maintaining accurate medical records is essential for providing quality patient care. As a Health Information Technician, I believe the most important aspect of maintaining accurate medical records is ensuring that all data entered into the system is complete and up-to-date. This includes verifying patient information, entering new diagnoses and treatments, and updating existing records as needed. It also involves ensuring that any changes to the record are properly documented and tracked. Finally, it’s important to ensure that all documentation is stored securely and in compliance with HIPAA regulations.

I have extensive experience in this area, having worked as a Health Information Technician for several years. During my time in this role, I have developed strong organizational skills and an eye for detail which has enabled me to accurately maintain medical records. I am confident that I can bring these same skills to your organization and help ensure that all medical records are kept up-to-date and secure.”

16. How often should medical records be updated?

This question can help the interviewer assess your knowledge of how to keep medical records up-to-date. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of keeping accurate information in patient files and demonstrate your ability to perform this task effectively.

Example: “Medical records should be updated regularly to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. The frequency of updates depends on the type of medical record, as well as the organization’s policies and procedures. Generally speaking, patient information should be updated at least once a year, or more often if there is a change in the patient’s condition or treatment plan. For example, if a patient has been prescribed new medications, their medical record should be updated to reflect this change.

In addition, medical records should also be updated whenever any changes are made to the patient’s personal information. This includes address, phone number, insurance coverage, and other contact information. Finally, it is important to update medical records when any tests or treatments have been completed, so that the health care provider can accurately track the patient’s progress.”

17. There is a discrepancy between a patient’s symptoms and what they report. What do you do?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work with patients. Your answer should include a step-by-step process of how you would handle this situation.

Example: “When there is a discrepancy between a patient’s symptoms and what they report, I take the time to investigate further. First, I would review the patient’s medical records and other pertinent information to ensure accuracy. Then, I would speak with the patient directly to understand their perspective on the situation. Finally, I would collaborate with the healthcare team to determine if any additional tests or treatments are necessary.

As a Health Information Technician, it is my responsibility to ensure that all of the patient’s health information is accurate and up-to-date. My experience in this field has taught me how to handle discrepancies in an efficient and effective manner. With my strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills, I am confident that I can help resolve any issues that may arise.”

18. Describe a time when you had to deal with a challenging situation in regards to medical records.

When an interviewer asks you a question like this, they are trying to get a better idea of how you handle stressful situations. They want to know that you can remain calm and focused when faced with challenging circumstances. In your answer, try to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.

Example: “I recently had to deal with a challenging situation in regards to medical records. I was working on a project that required me to review and update patient information for accuracy. During the process, I discovered that some of the data had been entered incorrectly into the system. This could have caused serious issues if it hadn’t been caught in time.

In order to resolve the issue, I worked closely with the IT department to identify the source of the problem and make sure all the necessary corrections were made. I also took the initiative to contact the patients directly to inform them of the changes and ensure their records were accurate. Through my efforts, I was able to successfully complete the project and ensure that all patient records were up-to-date and correct.

This experience has taught me the importance of accuracy when dealing with medical records and how important it is to stay organized and attentive to detail. It has also shown me the value of communication and collaboration between departments when resolving complex problems.”

19. Are there any areas of healthcare IT that you are uncomfortable working with?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have a realistic view of your skills and experience. It also helps them understand how much training you might need before starting work at their company. Your answer should include an honest assessment of your skills, but it should also show that you are eager to learn new things.

Example: “No, there are no areas of healthcare IT that I am uncomfortable working with. I have extensive experience in all aspects of health information technology and have worked on a variety of projects ranging from electronic health records to data analytics. My expertise includes coding, auditing, quality assurance, privacy and security, and more. I am confident in my ability to quickly learn any new software or systems that may be required for the job. Furthermore, I stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices so that I can provide the most effective solutions possible.”

20. What steps do you take to ensure patient confidentiality is maintained?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of HIPAA regulations and how you apply them in the workplace. Use examples from your previous experience that show you understand what information is confidential and how to maintain it.

Example: “As a Health Information Technician, I understand the importance of patient confidentiality and take it very seriously. To ensure that all patient information is kept confidential, I follow strict protocols set by my employer. This includes making sure that only authorized personnel have access to protected health information (PHI) and that any PHI accessed is done so in accordance with HIPAA regulations. I also make sure that all documents containing PHI are stored securely and that any electronic data is encrypted. Furthermore, I always use secure communication methods when discussing patient information and never share any details outside of the organization. Finally, I remind staff members of their responsibility to maintain patient confidentiality at all times and provide regular training on best practices for handling PHI.”

21. How would you handle conflicting requests from different physicians regarding the same patient’s record?

This question can help the interviewer assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work with others. Your answer should show that you are able to collaborate with other professionals, while also demonstrating your critical thinking skills.

Example: “I understand the importance of ensuring accuracy and compliance when it comes to patient records. In the event of conflicting requests from different physicians regarding a single patient’s record, I would first take the time to review the requests in detail to ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date. Once I have verified this, I would then contact both physicians to discuss their requests and come to an agreement on which request should be fulfilled. If necessary, I am also comfortable reaching out to other departments such as billing or medical coding for additional assistance. Finally, once the decision has been made, I would document the process thoroughly so that there is a clear audit trail if needed in the future.”

22. Do you have experience coding diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement purposes?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with coding and billing. If you have previous experience, share a specific example of how you performed this task. If you don’t have any coding experience, you can explain what steps are involved in coding for reimbursement purposes.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience coding diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement purposes. During my time as a Health Information Technician at ABC Hospital, I was responsible for coding all patient encounters using the most up-to-date version of ICD-10-CM and CPT codes. I also had to ensure that the codes were accurate and complete in order to maximize reimbursement from insurance companies. In addition, I regularly reviewed medical records to verify accuracy of diagnosis and procedure codes. My attention to detail and knowledge of coding standards allowed me to successfully code thousands of patient encounters with minimal errors. I am confident that my experience will be an asset to your organization.”

23. Describe an instance where you identified an issue with data integrity or accuracy.

This question can help interviewers understand how you use your critical thinking skills to solve problems. Use examples from previous work experiences where you used your problem-solving and analytical skills to identify issues with data integrity or accuracy, and describe the steps you took to resolve them.

Example: “I recently identified an issue with data integrity while working as a Health Information Technician. I was reviewing patient records for accuracy and noticed that there were discrepancies between the information in the electronic health record (EHR) system and the paper documentation. After further investigation, I discovered that the EHR had not been updated to reflect changes made to the paper documents. To resolve this issue, I worked closely with the IT department to ensure that all of the necessary updates were made to the EHR system. This allowed us to maintain accurate patient records and ensure the highest level of data integrity.”

24. Tell us about your experience with releasing information to patients or other organizations.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle the responsibility of releasing information to patients or other organizations. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills and ability to work with others.

Example: “I have extensive experience in releasing information to patients and other organizations. In my current role as a Health Information Technician, I am responsible for ensuring that all patient records are kept secure and confidential while also providing timely access to the appropriate parties.

I have implemented various processes to ensure that all requests for medical records are handled efficiently and accurately. This includes verifying the identity of the requester, obtaining authorization from the patient or their legal representative, and confirming the accuracy of the requested documents before they are released. Furthermore, I stay up-to-date on HIPAA regulations and guidelines to ensure compliance with all applicable laws when releasing information.”

25. What challenges have you encountered while working as a health information technician?

This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenges and use your problem-solving skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific challenge you faced and the steps you took to overcome it.

Example: “One of my biggest challenges as a health information technician is helping patients who are frustrated with their medical bills. I always make sure to explain all charges clearly so that patients know what they’re paying for. If there’s an error on their bill, I work with billing staff to fix it. This helps me build positive relationships with patients and shows them that I care about their overall experience.”

Example: “As a health information technician, I have encountered several challenges in my career. One of the biggest challenges I have faced is staying up to date with ever-changing regulations and standards for medical records. It can be difficult to keep track of all the changes that occur, but I make sure to stay informed by attending conferences and reading industry publications.

Another challenge I have experienced is working with multiple stakeholders who may not always agree on how to handle patient data. In these situations, it is important to remain professional and find solutions that meet everyone’s needs while still adhering to legal and ethical guidelines.

Lastly, I have had to learn how to effectively use new technologies as they become available. This includes learning how to use electronic health record systems, which requires an understanding of both the technology and the processes involved in managing health information. I am confident that I have the skills necessary to quickly learn any new technologies that are needed for this position.”