Informatics Support Specialist Under general supervision to direction, provides informatics (health data) support to manage data collection, analysis, and presentation for health programs, projects, and initiatives; maintains and optimizes databases such as Geographic Information System (GIS), Electronic Health Records (EHR), Structured Query Language (SQL), and other information management systems; performs data cleaning, workflow design, system implementation, and advanced data visualizations; troubleshoots, researches and resolves difficult and complex data analysis applications problems, conducts needs analyses, feasibility studies, and evaluations for projects; recommends improvements for organizational policy and procedures; manages data and generates reports; makes improvements to database systems; provides technical assistance to staff; and performs related duties as assigned. Examples Of DutiesThe job functions listed below are not inclusive or exclusive and are intended only as illustrations or examples of the various types of work that may be performed in various divisions/departments. Types of work performed shall be within the scope and licensure (if required). Reasonable accommodation will be made when requested and determined by the County to be appropriate under applicable law. Some duties, knowledge and abilities may be performed in a learning capacity by positions at the entry (I) level. Creates and maintains health and administrative databases, including GIS, EHR, state registries, and SQL databases. Monitors system storage and performance, sets parameters for optimal function; coordinates upgrades and testing processes. Coordinates data collection, defines database requirements, and ensures quality control. Conducts comprehensive data analysis, including data cleaning, statistical work, and support for department initiatives. Designs and implements efficient data workflows and systems. Develops written reports, including technical preparation, determining appropriate formatting and design, and compilation of final reports. Develops, designs, and supports advanced data visualizations like GIS mapping, dashboards, and web-based displays. Participates in and actively contributes to performance management and quality improvement through identification of goals, monitoring data and implementing new processes; applies public health quality improvement methods, tools, and techniques to address root causes and improve effectiveness of programs. Completes data requests and supports epidemiological investigations; assists in conducting special studies and research. Identifies, prepares, maintains, and updates department records, files, and other documentation. Types and proofreads forms, documents, correspondence, and reports. Disseminates information stored in information systems. Provides technical assistance and guidance on systems to department and staff. Conducts regular risk assessments to identify data and system vulnerabilities, assess potential threats, and recommend mitigation strategies to minimize risks. Operates computer systems to enter and retrieve information. Responds to inquiries and requests for information. Maintains security and confidentiality of sensitive information. Classifies and organizes data for ease of use; reviews and validates data for accuracy; identifies, clarifies, and resolves data discrepancies in information systems. Assists other department staff in disseminating information, interpreting database entries, and performing corrective procedures. Contacts system administrator, appropriate County Information Technology staff, or contracted vendor for assistance as needed for maintenance and correction of information systems. Advises department in interpreting system records. Works with open datasets, including populating and extracting data from internal and public datasets. Assists with the design, development, and assessment of surveys and data collection techniques to meet the needs of assigned projects or programs. Contributes to the accomplishment of assigned objectives in the department strategic plan and community health improvement plan. Maintains and operates modern office equipment including computer equipment. Establishes and maintains standard work procedures governing the appropriate use of data. Ensures accuracy and compliance with medical billing, coding, and follow-up requirements and lack of documentation issues. Reviews and follows up on denial codes, analyzes reasons for denials, submits appeals and reconsideration requests, and makes appropriate corrections and retransmits claims. Gathers, compiles, and analyzes medical billing and statistical data and reviews encounters for payment accuracy based on services and contracts. Configure and maintain medical billing software settings to align with organizational workflows and payer requirements. Ensure proper integration of coding libraries (e.g., ICD-10, CPT) and fee schedules within the billing platform. Performs related duties as assigned. Employment Standards / Minimum Qualifications Knowledge of: Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to confidentiality including HIPAA, HITECH, and all other relevant laws. Database creation, maintenance, and advanced data visualization techniques (GIS, dashboards, web-based displays).Data cleaning, workflow creation, system design, and implementation. Social determinants of health. Impacts of socioeconomic and cultural differences in public health. Principles of health equity as it applies to public health policy, planning, and practice. Operations, services, activities, policies, and procedures of the assigned department or division. Operational characteristics, functions, and procedures of the database and information systems used in the assigned office. Current computer software programs applicable to the department's information technology requirements. Department program terminology, phraseology, forms, documents, and procedures. Methods and techniques of data analysis. Principles and techniques of data collection and report preparation. Principles and procedures of record-keeping. Principles of report preparation and writing. English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Mathematical principles and standard statistical tools and techniques. Uses and limitations of computer information and operating systems. Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment. Applied experience coordinating or supporting changes to system workflows, configurations, or documentation in systems. Ability to: Perform a variety of specialized data management and statistical record keeping assignments. Enter and retrieve information using various a variety of information management systems such as financial accounting systems, human resource information systems, electronic medical or health record systems, public health surveillance systems, customer relationship management systems, and Microsoft SharePoint 365.Organize work and set priorities to meet critical reporting deadlines. Learn principles and applications of Java Script Object Notation (JSON) and Structured Query Language (SQL).Learn the policies, procedures, functions, and regulations of department records functions. Learn, interpret, and apply the policies, procedures, laws, regulations related to records maintenance and information release. Learn department record keeping methods. Perform a variety of complex clerical, record maintenance, and office assistance functions. Research, collect, compile, and analyze information and data. Assume responsibility and exercise judgement in various situations. Exercise good judgment, flexibility, creativity, and sensitivity in response to changing situations and needs. Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records. Prepare clear, concise, and complete reports and other written materials. Prepare data visualization reports including tables, charts, graphs. Perform comparisons of data quickly and accurately. Respond to requests and inquiries about department policies and procedures. Deal tactfully and courteously with the public and other staff members. Adhere to attention to detail as per federal and state statute regulations. Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and data. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Review medical billing claims, analyze, and correct errors and manage denials. Obtain CHDA (Certified Health Data Analyst) certification. Obtain SQL certification, demonstrating proficiency in database management and querying.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.
