With increasing automation of medical records and growing use of mobile devices by health care providers in medical settings, career opportunities in electronic medical records are increasing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment of medical records specialists will increase 9% between 2023 and 2033. Further, BLS estimates job growth for health information technologists and medical registrars to be 16% during the same time period. As such, both of these occupational groups are growing much faster than the national average growth rate for all occupations.
For career-changers and college students seeking to use their technology skills in a health care setting, the field of electronic medical records (EMR) can offer a variety of career opportunities — and an excellent job outlook. Enrolling in the online Associate of Arts (AA) in Healthcare Management program from Florida Institute of Technology can be an excellent first step in these career paths.
Levels of Professional Development for Electronic Medical Records Careers
Electronic medical records (EMR) professionals are employed across diverse health care settings, where they store and access medical information. While some jobs may be available for candidates with a high school diploma, medical records specialists generally need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree to enter the field, according to BLS. BLS reports that health information technologists and medical registrars need an associate degree at minimum.
Employers may also prefer or require that candidates have professional certification according to their specialized role. Among the national credentialing organizations are the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).
Professionals seeking more advanced opportunities in the field will likely need at least a bachelor’s degree. Those aspiring to leadership and health care management opportunities, such as health information manager, instructor or supervisor, may need to pursue a master’s degree.
Ongoing Education for Jobs in Electronic Medical Records
Ongoing education and professional development are common aspects of this field. Ongoing education keeps EMR and health information professionals up to date on constantly advancing technologies and practices while preparing them to explore various career paths. Job opportunities include working with medical records directly, acting as a liaison among health care providers and technology vendors, providing training for medical and caseworker staff, and assuming supervisory roles.
Career advancement typically requires a combination of well-developed technical skills, experience and educational knowledge. Attending seminars, joining professional organizations and participating in employer-based training are common practices for EMR professionals.
Employment Settings, Salary Potential and Other Considerations in EMR
Electronic medical records professionals work in hospitals, physicians’ offices, assisted living facilities, treatment centers and a variety of other health care settings. There may be opportunities to work remotely, and EMR professionals who provide consultation or training services may travel as part of their duties.
According to BLS data, the median annual salary for medical records specialists was $50,250 in 2024, with the top 10% earning more than $80,950. BLS reports that health information technologists and medical registrars earned a median salary of $67,310 per year in 2024, with the top 10% of earners making more than $112,130 annually.
Numerous factors influence salary ranges and employment opportunities for these professionals. Examples include an individual’s educational qualifications and work history, as well as specific employer and local market conditions.
Skills Needed for EMR Technician Jobs
Candidates must not only demonstrate solid skills and knowledge but also exhibit the integrity necessary when dealing with sensitive medical data and personal information. Additional attributes sought by employers may include strong organizational skills and highly developed communication skills, both verbal and written. Staying current with the fast-changing technology and regulations in the field is also vital to long-term growth and career advancement.
For students and professionals interested in incorporating their technical expertise into a career in a health-related field, job openings in electronic medical records present a diversity of potential pathways. Earning a two-year associate degree in health care management can open the door to careers in this field. A four-year bachelor’s degree may be required to attain advanced job opportunities.
Many health care employers, such as hospitals, private health care facilities and government agencies, may provide tuition assistance or reimbursement programs. Such programs facilitate education and career advancement for workers while improving employee skill-sets and productivity, in turn benefiting employers.
Enrolling in a nationally ranked and regionally accredited university such as Florida Tech can help students secure a competitive edge by attaining the body of knowledge necessary to pass credentialing exams. With a strong employment outlook in the coming years, a career in electronic medical records may offer a wide range of opportunities in a vital and growing part of the health care industry.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online AA in Healthcare Management program.
