Medical Records Manager Careers: 2025 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Pursuing a career as a Medical Records Manager in the U.S. offers strong potential, yet finding clear, up-to-date information can be surprisingly difficult. Job titles vary, responsibilities differ by employer, and salary estimates often conflict across sources.

Many overlook the nuances between health information management roles and assume a one-size-fits-all job description. This confusion can deter motivated individuals from exploring a rewarding field that blends healthcare, technology, and compliance.

As someone familiar with the healthcare industry’s inner workings, I’ll help clarify what this career entails, what to expect, and where to find trustworthy resources to support informed career decisions.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Medical Records Manager in the USA

• Degree Required: While some entry-level positions may accept an associate's degree in health information technology or a related field, a bachelor's degree in health information management (HIM) is increasingly preferred and often required for advancement.
• Degree Cost: Associate degrees cost between $9,926 and $36,225, while bachelor's degrees typically range from $27,630 to $37,726 or more; certificate programs are less expensive, costing anywhere from $399 to $18,650. Most management roles require at least a bachelor's degree.
• Salary Ranges: Medical Records Transcription Supervisors earn an average salary ranging from $65,937 to $89,499. Managerial and advanced roles, like Medical Records Managers, command higher average salaries, ranging from $117,667 to $144,878, while regional variations for Medical Records Coding Managers range from $83,888 in Florida to $117,667 in California.
• Job Outlook: The job outlook for medical records and health information managers is generally positive, driven by the increasing complexity of healthcare regulations, the adoption of electronic health records, and the growing need for data management and analysis.

Table of Contents

1. What is a medical records manager, and what do they do?
2. How can you become a medical records manager for 2025?
3. What are the educational requirements for becoming a medical records manager?
4. What skills are required for medical records managers?
5. What is the certification and licensing process for medical records managers?
6. What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a medical records manager?
7. How much can you earn as a medical records manager?
8. How can affordable online programs enhance your qualifications?
9. Can interdisciplinary education, including pharmaceutical insights, boost your role as a medical records manager?
10. How can an interdisciplinary academic background enhance your medical records management career?
11. What is the job market like for a medical records manager?
12. What subspecialties and career paths are available for medical records managers?
13. What challenges should you consider as a medical records manager?
14. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Medical Records Manager

What is a medical records manager, and what do they do?

Medical records managers, also known as health information managers, are responsible for overseeing the systems and processes used to collect, store, retrieve, and protect patient health information. Their work is vital for ensuring the accuracy, accessibility, and security of medical records. Here are some of their responsibilities. 

• Data Management: Overseeing the collection, organization, and maintenance of patient health information, both in paper and electronic formats.
• EHR Systems Management: Implementing, managing, and optimizing electronic health record (EHR) systems to ensure efficient data entry, retrieval, and reporting.
• Privacy and Security: Ensuring compliance with privacy and security regulations, such as HIPAA, to protect patient confidentiality and data integrity.
• Coding and Classification: Supervising the accurate coding of diagnoses and procedures using standardized systems like ICD-10 and CPT for billing and statistical purposes. Many affordable medical billing and coding online programs can help you in this area.
• Quality Assurance: Implementing and monitoring quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and completeness of medical records.
• Policy and Procedure Development: Developing and implementing policies and procedures related to health information management.
• Staff Supervision: Managing and training health information technicians and other staff members.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Generating reports and analyzing health data to support clinical decision-making, research, and administrative functions.
• Compliance: Ensuring that all health information practices adhere to legal, regulatory, and accreditation requirements.
• Collaboration: Working closely with physicians, nurses, administrators, and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective information flow.

Medical records managers play a crucial role in the efficient and compliant operation of healthcare organizations. Their expertise ensures that patient information is managed effectively to support quality care and administrative processes.

The worldwide market for hospital electronic health records is anticipated to experience substantial expansion. Projections indicate an increase in market size and share from USD 33.5 billion in 2024 to USD 56.8 billion by 2034. This growth signifies a compound annual growth rate of 6% over the ten-year forecast period. As shown below, his robust CAGR underscores the increasing adoption and importance of EHR systems within hospital settings globally.

How can you become a medical records manager for 2025?

Becoming a medical records manager typically involves a combination of education, experience, and professional certification. Individuals interested in this career path should strategically plan their academic and professional development.

• Obtain Relevant Education: Earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in health information technology or health information management.
• Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or entry-level positions in medical records departments or healthcare settings to gain hands-on experience. You can start as a medical administrative assistant, for example. Note that medical administrative assistants are different from medical assistants. You can even compare medical assistant vs medical administrative assistant salary.
• Pursue Professional Certification: Obtain certification as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) from AHIMA.
• Develop Necessary Skills: Acquire strong organizational, analytical, technical, and communication skills.
• Stay Updated: Keep abreast of changes in healthcare regulations, technology, and best practices in health information management.
• Consider Specialization: Explore areas of specialization within health information management to enhance career prospects.
• Build a Professional Network: Engage with professionals in the field through professional organizations and networking events.
• Seek Advancement Opportunities: Progress through roles with increasing responsibility to gain the experience needed for management positions. For example, the cheapest online public health degree programs can lead to higher positions in your organization.
• Demonstrate Leadership Qualities: Develop leadership and management skills to effectively oversee teams and projects.
• Maintain Ethical Standards: Adhere to strict ethical and legal guidelines in handling patient information.

A dedicated approach to education, gaining practical experience, and pursuing professional credentials are key steps in becoming a successful medical records manager. Continuous learning and professional development are also crucial for long-term career growth.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a medical records manager?

The educational requirements for becoming a medical records manager generally involve post-secondary education in a related field. The specific level of education can influence career advancement opportunities.

• Associate's Degree: An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Health Information Technology can qualify individuals for entry-level positions as health information technicians, which can be a stepping stone to management roles.
• Bachelor's Degree: A Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Health Information Management (HIM) is increasingly preferred and often required for medical records manager positions. These programs provide a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare regulations, data management, and leadership principles.
• Curriculum: HIM programs typically cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding and classification systems (ICD-10, CPT), healthcare law and ethics, health information systems, data analysis, and management principles.
• Accreditation: It is advisable to choose programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)2 to ensure quality and industry relevance.
• Graduate Degrees: While not always required for entry-level management positions, a Master's degree in Health Informatics or a related field can enhance career advancement opportunities and prepare individuals for more specialized or leadership roles. Some affordable online healthcare MBA programs are also good choices.
• Continuing Education: Regardless of the initial degree, ongoing learning and professional development are essential to stay current with the evolving healthcare landscape.

A strong educational foundation in health information management is critical for developing the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as a medical records manager. Pursuing higher levels of education can lead to greater career opportunities and responsibilities.

What skills are required for medical records managers?

Medical records managers need a diverse set of skills to effectively manage health information systems and teams. These skills encompass technical, analytical, interpersonal, and administrative competencies.

• Technical Proficiency: Expertise in electronic health record (EHR) systems, data management software, and other health information technologies.
• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage and organize large volumes of data, documents, and workflows efficiently.
• Analytical Skills: Capacity to analyze health information, identify trends, and generate reports for various purposes.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to interact effectively with healthcare professionals, staff, and stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of medical records and compliance with regulations.
• Knowledge of Medical Terminology and Coding: Understanding of medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and coding systems (ICD-10, CPT). Several cheap online medical billing and coding courses can help you get up to speed.
• Understanding of Healthcare Regulations: Comprehensive knowledge of HIPAA, HITECH Act, and other relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and resolve issues related to health information management systems and processes.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Capacity to supervise, train, and motivate staff, as well as manage projects and resources effectively.
• Ethical Judgment: Strong ethical principles and the ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Project Management Skills: Ability to plan, execute, and monitor projects related to EHR implementation or process improvement.
• Customer Service Skills: Professionalism and the ability to address inquiries and provide support to internal and external stakeholders.

Possessing a strong combination of these skills enables medical records managers to effectively oversee health information management functions and contribute to the efficient and compliant operation of healthcare organizations. Continuous development of these skills is important for career advancement.

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The integration of real-time prescription benefit information within hospital electronic health records represents a crucial step towards enhancing transparency and affordability in medication prescribing. This capability is important because it empowers healthcare providers with immediate insights into patient-specific drug costs and alternative therapeutic options covered by their insurance at the point of care, ultimately supporting more informed and cost-conscious prescribing decisions. 

In 2023, data from 2,547 non-Federal acute care hospitals responding to the AHA IT Supplement indicated that 56.2% of hospitals with EHRs reported integrating health insurer real-time prescription benefit information for all or almost all payers. An additional 15.8% of these hospitals had this integration in place for a limited set of payers. Conversely, 17.7% of hospitals with EHRs did not have this integration, while 10.3% of respondents indicated they did not know. These figures, as shown in the graphic below,  highlight that a majority of non-Federal acute care hospitals with EHRs had achieved at least some level of integration of real-time prescription benefit information from health insurers.

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What is the certification and licensing process for medical records managers?

While there isn't a specific licensing process for medical records managers in the same way as for clinical professionals, professional certification is highly valued and often required by employers. Certification demonstrates a certain level of competency and expertise in the field.

• Certifying Body: The primary certifying body in the United States for health information professionals is the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
• RHIT Certification: The Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification is typically for individuals with an associate's degree in health information technology. It requires passing a comprehensive examination.
• RHIA Certification: The Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certification is generally for those with a bachelor's degree in health information management. It also requires passing a rigorous examination.
• Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for the RHIT or RHIA exams, candidates typically need to have completed an HIM program accredited by CAHIIM.
• Examination: The certification exams cover a broad range of topics related to health information management, including data content and standards, privacy and security, coding and reimbursement, and healthcare statistics.
• Continuing Education: Maintaining RHIT and RHIA certifications requires earning continuing education units (CEUs) to ensure ongoing competency and knowledge of industry changes.
• Specialty Certifications: AHIMA also offers specialty certifications in areas like Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) and Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS),3 which can enhance career opportunities.
• State-Specific Requirements: While national certifications are prevalent, some states may have specific regulations or requirements related to health information management roles, so it's important to check local guidelines.

Obtaining and maintaining professional certification through AHIMA is a significant step for medical records managers, demonstrating their commitment to the profession and enhancing their credibility and career prospects. Continuous learning is integral to maintaining these credentials.

What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a medical records manager?

Medical records managers handle sensitive patient information and must adhere to strict ethical and legal guidelines to protect privacy, ensure confidentiality, and maintain the integrity of medical records. These guidelines are paramount in maintaining patient trust and legal compliance.

• HIPAA Compliance: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is the primary federal law governing the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). Medical records managers must ensure all practices comply with HIPAA regulations regarding the use, disclosure, and safeguarding of patient data.
• Confidentiality: Maintaining the confidentiality of patient information is a fundamental ethical principle. Medical records managers must prevent unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of PHI.
• Data Security: Implementing and maintaining robust security measures to protect electronic and physical medical records from breaches, cyberattacks, and unauthorized access.
• Integrity of Records: Ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of medical records. Falsifying or altering records is illegal and unethical.
• Patient Rights: Understanding and upholding patient rights related to their health information, including the right to access their records, request amendments, and receive an accounting of disclosures.4
• Legal Requirements: Adhering to state and federal laws related to medical records management, including retention requirements and reporting obligations.
• Professional Codes of Ethics: Following the code of ethics established by professional organizations like AHIMA, which outlines principles of conduct, integrity, and responsibility.
• Informed Consent: Understanding the requirements for obtaining informed consent for the use and disclosure of patient information for specific purposes, such as research.
• Data Governance: Establishing and enforcing policies and procedures for data management, including data quality, security, and access controls.
• Breach Notification: Understanding and following protocols for reporting security breaches or unauthorized disclosures of PHI as required by law.

A strong understanding of ethical principles and legal frameworks is crucial for medical records managers to navigate the complexities of handling sensitive health information responsibly and legally. Upholding these guidelines is essential for maintaining the trust of patients and the integrity of the healthcare system.

Healthcare data includes not just medical data but also mental health data, as many healthcare practitioners have augmented their qualifications with the most affordable online masters in mental health counseling programs.

In 2024, healthcare data breaches in the United States reached a record high, exposing 276,775,457 records, representing a substantial 64.1% surge compared to the prior year and impacting 81.38% of the U.S. population. Despite this alarming trend, a concerning 79% of the 100 largest U.S. hospitals and health systems exhibited weak cybersecurity performance, scoring a D or worse, with 30% identified as having critical vulnerabilities. Overall, the healthcare industry demonstrates significant cybersecurity weaknesses, with 45% of organizations categorized as high-risk (D) and 34% in the critical risk (F) category.  Furthermore, a significant 65% of the 100 largest U.S. hospitals and health systems experienced a recent data breach.

These figures, shown in the graphic below,  collectively underscore a critical and pervasive cybersecurity crisis within the U.S. healthcare system, demanding immediate and comprehensive attention to safeguard patient data.

How much can you earn as a medical records manager?

The salary for medical records managers in the USA can vary depending on several factors, including experience, education, certification, geographic location, and the size and type of employer. Generally, it is a profession with competitive earning potential.

• Experience Level: Entry-level positions typically have lower salaries compared to those with several years of experience in health information management.
• Education and Certification: Individuals with a bachelor's or master's degree and professional certifications like RHIA often command higher salaries.
• Geographic Location: Salaries can vary significantly based on the cost of living and demand for health information professionals in different states and metropolitan areas.
• Employer Type: Hospitals, large healthcare systems, insurance companies, and government agencies may offer different salary scales.
• Job Responsibilities: The scope of responsibilities and the complexity of the role can influence salary levels.
• Specialization: Specializing in high-demand areas like data security or compliance may lead to higher earning potential.
• Industry Demand: The overall demand for health information professionals in the healthcare industry can impact salary trends.
• Negotiation Skills: The ability to negotiate salary and benefits can also play a role in overall compensation.
• Economic Conditions: General economic conditions and the healthcare market can influence salary ranges.

While specific salary figures can vary, medical records managers generally earn a competitive salary that reflects their important role in the healthcare system. Continued education, professional development, and gaining specialized skills can contribute to increased earning potential over time.

The average salary for a Medical Records Manager in the United States is $117,667. Progressing to a Medical Records Senior Manager role indicates a significant salary increase, reaching an average of $144,878. In contrast, management roles focused on coding or transcription tend to have lower average salaries, with Medical Records Coding Managers earning $89,499 and Managers of Medical Records Coding earning $89,005. Supervisory positions within medical records also show lower average earnings, with Medical Records Supervisors at $68,815 and Medical Records Transcription Supervisors at $65,937, while Medical Records Transcriptionists have an average salary of $52,101.

Examining specific states reveals geographical variations in the average salary for Medical Records Managers, with California mirroring the national average at $117,667, New York slightly lower at $113,972, and Texas considerably lower at $103,353. Similarly, Medical Records Coding Managers in Florida have a lower average salary of $83,888 compared to the national average for that role.

The data, shown in the graph below, suggests a clear upward trend in salary with increasing levels of responsibility and a notable influence of specialization and geographic location on earning potential within the medical records management field. You may also consider other options, such as the cheapest online healthcare administration degree programs, to enhance your career prospects.

How can affordable online programs enhance your qualifications?

Accredited, cost-effective online programs can offer a flexible pathway to build the foundational skills required in health information management. Leveraging online education not only facilitates access to up-to-date theoretical and practical knowledge but also prepares you for the evolving demands of healthcare technology and compliance. For professionals balancing work and continued learning, these programs often incorporate simulated environments and case studies that mirror real-world challenges in medical records management. Additionally, exploring resources like the cheapest medical assistant program online can provide valuable insights into budget-conscious educational options, reinforcing your credentials and improving your competitive edge in the dynamic healthcare industry.

Can interdisciplinary education, including pharmaceutical insights, boost your role as a medical records manager?

Combining core expertise in medical records management with interdisciplinary studies can provide a distinct competitive advantage. Exposure to advanced pharmaceutical concepts deepens understanding of medication management protocols and regulatory nuances, ultimately enhancing collaboration with clinical teams and refining decision-making processes. Pursuing complementary educational pathways, such as the best accelerated PharmD online degree programs, equips professionals with additional insights that can streamline data integration and optimize patient care outcomes. This strategic cross-training fosters innovative approaches to meet evolving industry challenges in healthcare information management.

How can an interdisciplinary academic background enhance your medical records management career?

Integrating an interdisciplinary academic background can provide a competitive edge in the evolving landscape of medical records management. A solid understanding of biomedical sciences not only strengthens the ability to interpret patient data but also supports collaboration with clinical teams on data-driven initiatives. For professionals seeking to broaden their expertise, obtaining foundational knowledge from fields like biology can be instrumental. Candidates may consider exploring the most affordable online biology bachelor's degree programs to supplement their credentials and drive innovative approaches in health information management.

What is the job market like for a medical records manager?

The job market for medical records managers, also known as health information managers, in the USA is generally considered stable and projected to grow. Several factors contribute to this positive outlook.

• Aging Population: The increasing elderly population requires more healthcare services, leading to a greater volume of medical records and a need for professionals to manage this information.
• Electronic Health Records (EHRs): The widespread adoption of EHR systems has created a demand for skilled professionals to manage and optimize these systems.
• Complexity of Healthcare Regulations: The increasing complexity of healthcare laws and regulations, such as HIPAA, requires knowledgeable professionals to ensure compliance.
• Data Security Concerns: Growing concerns about data breaches and the need to protect patient information have increased the demand for experts in health information security.
• Focus on Data Analytics: The increasing emphasis on using health data for quality improvement, research, and population health management has created opportunities for professionals with data analysis skills.
• Government Initiatives: Government initiatives aimed at improving healthcare efficiency and quality often rely on effective health information management practices.
• Growth of Healthcare Industry: The overall growth of the healthcare industry continues to drive demand for various healthcare administrative roles, including medical records managers.
• Need for Compliance Officers: Many healthcare organizations require professionals with HIM expertise to serve as compliance officers.
• Telehealth Expansion: The growth of telehealth services also necessitates effective management of electronic health information across different platforms.
• Demand in Various Settings: Opportunities exist in hospitals, clinics, physician practices, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, government agencies, and consulting firms.

The job market for medical records managers is expected to remain favorable due to the ongoing evolution of the healthcare industry and the increasing importance of managing health information effectively and securely. Professionals with strong technical skills, knowledge of regulations, and leadership abilities will likely find good career opportunities. In fact, all these skills are exactly the ones you would need as a school principal. Check out our article on how to become a school principal and you'd see leadership abilities, technical skills, and knowledge of school regulations are very essential.

What subspecialties and career paths are available for medical records managers?

Medical records managers can pursue various subspecialties and career paths within the broader field of health information management. This allows for specialization based on interests and skills, leading to diverse career advancement opportunities.

• Data Analytics: Focusing on analyzing health data to identify trends, improve quality of care, and support decision-making.
• Privacy and Security: Specializing in safeguarding patient health information and ensuring compliance with privacy and security regulations like HIPAA.
• Compliance Officer: Ensuring that healthcare organizations adhere to all relevant laws, regulations, and accreditation standards related to health information.
• EHR Implementation and Management: Focusing on the implementation, optimization, and support of electronic health record systems.
• Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI): Working to improve the quality and completeness of clinical documentation to support accurate coding and reimbursement.
• Health Information Technology (HIT) Management: Overseeing the technology infrastructure and systems used for managing health information.
• Healthcare Informatics: Applying information technology and computer science principles to healthcare and health information management.
• Consulting: Providing expertise and guidance to healthcare organizations on health information management best practices, EHR implementation, and compliance.
• Education and Training: Teaching health information management courses at colleges or universities or providing training to healthcare staff.
• Management and Leadership Roles: Advancing to higher-level management positions, such as director of health information management or chief information officer (CIO).
• Research: Contributing to research in health informatics and health information management.
• Revenue Cycle Management: Focusing on the processes related to patient billing and payment, ensuring accurate coding and claims submission.

The field of health information management offers a range of subspecialties and career paths that allow medical records managers to tailor their careers to their interests and develop expertise in specific areas. Continuous learning and professional development are key to exploring these opportunities.

Some of the tasks and responsibilities handled by medical records managers also overlap with those of healthcare coordinators. For example, both manage patient information and records. So you may consider initially taking the healthcare coordinator career path. Learn how to become a healthcare coordinator and see if you'd want to start your journey as one.

What challenges should you consider as a medical records manager?

Medical records managers face several challenges in their roles due to the evolving nature of healthcare, technology, and regulations. Being aware of these challenges is important for professionals in this field.

• Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping up with the constantly evolving EHR systems, software, and other health information technologies requires continuous learning.
• Data Security Threats: The increasing sophistication of cyberattacks and data breaches poses a significant challenge to protecting patient information.
• Evolving Regulations: Changes in healthcare laws and regulations, such as updates to HIPAA, require ongoing effort to ensure compliance.
• Data Volume and Complexity: Managing the ever-increasing volume and complexity of electronic health data can be challenging.
• Interoperability Issues: Ensuring seamless exchange of health information between different systems and healthcare providers can be complex.
• Maintaining Data Quality: Ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of medical records is an ongoing challenge.
• Resistance to Change: Implementing new technologies or processes can face resistance from healthcare professionals and staff.
• Budget Constraints: Healthcare organizations may face budget limitations that impact resources for health information management.
• Staffing Shortages: Finding and retaining qualified health information professionals can be a challenge.
• Balancing Access and Security: Providing timely access to patient information while maintaining strict security and privacy controls requires careful management.
• Data Governance and Standardization: Establishing and enforcing consistent data governance policies and standards across different systems and departments can be difficult.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Navigating complex ethical issues related to data privacy, access, and use of health information.

Medical records managers need to be adaptable, proactive, and continuously learning to effectively address these challenges and ensure the efficient and secure management of health information within their organizations. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential for navigating these complexities.

According to the Deloitte 2025 survey, a significant majority of healthcare organizations are prioritizing actions related to digital transformation. Specifically, 78% of respondents identified enhancing cybersecurity as an important or very important action. Investing in technology platforms for digital tools and services is also a key focus, with 72% of organizations considering it important or very important, the same percentage as those planning to invest in transformative technologies (72%). A slightly lower percentage, 60%, indicated that investing in core business technologies is an important or very important action for their organization. Overall, these figures, shown in the graph below,  highlight a strong emphasis on digital fortification and advancement within healthcare strategies.

Here’s What Graduates Say About Their Medical Records Manager Careers

Working as a Medical Records Manager has given me the chance to blend my love for healthcare with my knack for organization. I take pride in knowing that accurate patient records support better treatment outcomes. Every day feels meaningful. Ellis

This career gave me stability and upward mobility without needing to work directly with patients. I recently earned my RHIT certification, and it opened doors to leadership roles I hadn’t imagined. Darian

I've found great fulfillment in the constant learning and growth opportunities within medical records management, where I'm always challenged to stay updated with the latest technologies and regulations, and the collaborative environment and supportive colleagues make every day enjoyable as we work together to maintain the integrity of medical records. Larry

Key Findings

• EHR Market Growth: The global hospital electronic health records market is projected to grow from USD 33.5 billion in 2024 to USD 56.8 billion by 2034, demonstrating a 6% compound annual growth rate.
• Entry-Level/Supervisory Salaries: Positions such as Medical Records Transcription Supervisor average $65,937, while Medical Records Coding Managers earn around $89,499.
• Managerial/Advanced Salaries: The average salary for a Medical Records Manager in the US is $117,667, and Medical Records Senior Managers earn a higher average of $144,878.
• Regional Manager Salary Variations: Average salaries for Medical Records Managers show regional differences, with California at $117,667, New York at $113,972, and Texas at $103,353, while Medical Records Coding Managers in Florida earn $83,888.
• EHR Integration Status (2023): In 2023, non-Federal acute care hospitals with EHRs showed varying levels of real-time prescription benefit information integration: 56.2% for most or all payers, 15.8% for a limited set, and 17.7% with no integration.
• Healthcare Data Breaches (2024): Healthcare data breaches in the U.S. reached a record high in 2024, exposing 276,775,457 records, a 64.1% increase from the previous year.
• Hospital Cybersecurity Weakness (2024): A concerning 79% of the 100 largest U.S. hospitals and health systems scored D or worse in cybersecurity efforts in 2024.
• Healthcare Cybersecurity Risk (2024): Overall, 45% of healthcare organizations were categorized as high-risk (D) and 34% as critical risk (F) in cybersecurity in 2024.
• Healthcare Cybersecurity Priority (2025): In the Deloitte 2025 survey, 78% of healthcare organizations identified enhancing cybersecurity as an important or very important action.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Medical Records Manager

How can I gain experience in medical records management?

Gaining practical experience in medical records management typically involves seeking out internships or entry-level positions within hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare organizations. Roles such as medical records clerk or health information technician provide direct exposure to the daily tasks of organizing, maintaining, and ensuring the security of patient data, often within electronic health record (EHR) systems. Actively pursuing these opportunities allows you to learn essential workflows and understand critical regulatory requirements, such as HIPAA compliance, which are fundamental to effective medical records management practices.

Furthermore, volunteering within a healthcare environment that handles patient information can offer valuable insights, even if the responsibilities differ from paid roles. Networking with professionals currently working in health information management and potentially shadowing their work can provide a deeper understanding of the field. Additionally, investing in relevant professional certifications, like the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), can significantly boost your credentials and make you a more attractive candidate for entry-level positions that can pave the way for career growth into management roles.

How can medical record data improve patient care and outcomes?

Medical record data holds immense potential to revolutionize patient care and outcomes in numerous ways. By providing a comprehensive and longitudinal view of a patient's health history, including diagnoses, treatments, medications, allergies, and test results, healthcare professionals can make more informed decisions at the point of care. This readily available information reduces the risk of medical errors, such as prescribing incorrect medications or overlooking critical allergies. Furthermore, access to past data allows for better tracking of chronic conditions, identification of trends, and timely interventions, ultimately leading to improved patient safety and more effective treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

Beyond individual patient care, aggregated and analyzed medical record data can contribute to broader improvements in healthcare quality and outcomes. By identifying patterns and trends across patient populations, researchers and healthcare organizations can gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of different treatments, the prevalence of certain conditions, and potential risk factors. This information can drive the development of evidence-based practices, optimize resource allocation, and inform public health initiatives. Moreover, patient-generated health data, when integrated into medical records, can provide a more holistic understanding of a patient's health and well-being, fostering a more collaborative and patient-centered approach to care.

How will artificial intelligence (AI) impact medical records management?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to significantly reshape medical records management by introducing automation, enhancing efficiency, and improving data analysis. AI algorithms can automate tedious tasks like data entry, indexing, and even summarizing lengthy medical records, freeing up valuable time for healthcare professionals. Natural Language Processing (NLP) capabilities within AI can extract key information from unstructured text in patient notes and reports, making data more accessible and usable. This can lead to faster retrieval of patient information, reduced administrative burdens, and a lower risk of human errors in record-keeping, ultimately streamlining overall workflows within healthcare organizations.

Furthermore, AI offers powerful analytical tools that can unlock valuable insights hidden within medical record data. By identifying patterns, trends, and anomalies across large patient populations, AI can contribute to improved clinical decision-making, early detection of potential health risks, and the development of more personalized treatment plans. Predictive analytics driven by AI can forecast patient outcomes and help optimize resource allocation. While challenges related to data privacy, security, and algorithmic bias need careful consideration, the integration of AI into medical records management holds substantial promise for enhancing the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of healthcare delivery.

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• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, August 29). Medical records specialists. U.S. Department of Labor. 
• Yahoo Finance. (2024, August 18). Hospital Electronic Health Records Market Size Will Reach USD 56.8 Billion by 2034, at 6% CAGR: Prophecy Market Insights. Yahoo Finance. 

Yahoo Finance. (2025, April 9). 65% of the 100 largest US hospitals and health systems have had a recent data breach. Yahoo Finance.