What are Electronic Medical Records?

Electronic medical records (EMR), also known as electronic health records (EHR), are a digital collection of a patient's medical and health history, usually stored on a computer or electronic device.

What are electronic medical records?

Electronic medical records are a patient's health history and data digitally stored. This may include medical history, diagnoses, medicines, tests they’ve had, allergies, and treatment or action plans. Since they’re digital, these records can be shared across different healthcare settings.

What does an electronic medical records specialist do?

An electronic medical records specialist organizes and maintains patient data. They work to manage the medical records and ensure they’re accurate and secure. Aside from tracking a patient's medical history and treatments, electronic medical records specialists may also work to code and categorize a patient's information for insurance purposes.

Electronic medical records specialists should be organized and detail oriented. Other duties may include tracking outcomes for patients, using classification computer software, and protecting patient’s medical information.

How much does an electronic medical records specialist make?

As an electronic medical specialist, you’ll be entering the growing healthcare field. Most EMR specialists work full time during business hours. However, they may be required to work overnight if the healthcare system they’re employed at operates 24/7. In 2018, the median pay for medical records and health information technicians was $40,350.

How can I get started in electronic medical records?

To become an EMR specialist, you need training. With Ashworth College, you can earn your Electronic Medical Records Career Certificate online, at your own pace. Our program may help you develop the in-demand skills to enter the healthcare field. You’ll take lessons such as

• EMR Applications and Equipment. In this lesson you’ll learn the history and benefits of EMRs, how to enter and retrieve patient information, and how to perform clinical and administrative tasks.
• EMR Practice Management. You’ll learn how to use EMR templates, the training and support for EMRs, and how to use, edit, and update databases for insurance, codes, and demographics.

After completing your program, you may need to become certified. Certification varies by state.

Prepare for work with Ashworth

Kickstart your career in healthcare with Ashworth College. Call an Admissions Advisor at or enroll online today.