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What Is a RN Chart Review and How to Become One

RN Chart Review

What Does an RN Chart Review Do?

RN chart review jobs focus on performing medical record reviews. As a chart review nurse, you review patient healthcare information and records. Your duties include defining the level of care, determining the necessity of procedures related to diagnosis, and assessing discharge procedures. In this career, your responsibilities may also involve performing a utilization review for each case. You use charts and data to document the use of resources and specialists to provide medical services. You follow preset protocols when deciding on approval or denial of services based on chart information.

How to Become an RN Chart Review

The qualifications that you need to become a chart review nurse or utilization review nurse include a nursing degree, nursing license, and analytical skills to assess and make decisions based on charts and medical data. The minimum requirement is an associate degree, but many employers prefer candidates to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You also need a nursing license, which qualifies you to work as a registered nurse (RN) in your state. Employers expect you to be proficient in the analysis of electronic medical records (EMR) and medical coding. Communication skills and keen attention to detail are also essential for this job.