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Clinical Data Abstractor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Data Abstractor information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$24

$38

How much do clinical data abstractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for clinical data abstractor in Minnesota is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $31.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a clinical data abstractor?

Clinical Data Abstractors are healthcare professionals who review medical records and extract specific data for use in research, quality improvement, billing, or regulatory reporting. They ensure that the abstracted data is accurate, complete, and in compliance with established guidelines. Their work supports patient care, clinical studies, and hospital accreditation by providing reliable clinical information to various stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a clinical data abstractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Clinical Data Abstractor, you need a solid understanding of medical terminology, clinical workflows, and data management, often supported by a background in nursing, health information management, or another healthcare field. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, data abstraction tools, and certifications such as Certified Clinical Data Manager (CCDM) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data extraction, compliance with quality standards, and meaningful contributions to patient care and research outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by clinical data abstractors, and how can they be overcome?

Clinical Data Abstractors often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex or incomplete medical records and ensuring data accuracy while working under tight deadlines. To overcome these issues, it is important to develop strong attention to detail, maintain up-to-date knowledge of medical terminology, and utilize standardized abstraction guidelines. Collaboration with clinical staff and ongoing training can also help resolve ambiguities and improve data quality, ultimately ensuring that extracted information supports patient care and research objectives.

What is the difference between Clinical Data Abstractor vs Medical Records Technician?

AspectClinical Data AbstractorMedical Records Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a healthcare-related certification or associate degreeUsually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with certification preferred
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, research facilities, healthcare organizationsHospitals, clinics, healthcare facilities, medical offices
Job FocusExtracting and coding clinical data from patient records for research or quality purposesOrganizing, managing, and maintaining patient medical records for accuracy and compliance

While both roles involve working with medical records, Clinical Data Abstractors focus on extracting and coding clinical information for research and analysis, whereas Medical Records Technicians primarily organize and maintain patient records for administrative purposes. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within healthcare data management.

How to become a clinical data abstractor?

To become a clinical data abstractor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring an associate's degree or healthcare-related certification. Relevant skills include attention to detail, knowledge of medical terminology, and experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems. Training is often provided on the job, and familiarity with data management tools can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Clinical Data Abstractor jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Clinical Data Abstractor jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Clinical Data Abstractor jobs in Minnesota?

For Clinical Data Abstractor jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Clinical Data Abstractor job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,602 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

$20.27 - $28.61/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Northfield Hospital + Clinics rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary
The Health Information Management (HIM) Data Abstractor is responsible for reviewing, analyzing, and abstracting clinical and demographic information from paper medical records, external healthcare records, health information exchanges, Continuity of Care Documents (CCDs), and other electronic health records into the Northfield Hospital + Clinics electronic medical record (EMR). This position supports the integrity, completeness, and accessibility of the medical record to ensure accurate patient information is available to support ongoing patient care, regulatory compliance, quality initiatives, and organizational operations. The HIM Data Abstractor applies knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical documentation, healthcare workflows, and health information management principles to accurately identify, organize, and enter relevant patient information into the designated sections of the EMR while maintaining the confidentiality and security of protected health information.
Compensation
We are committed to providing wage ranges for all open positions. Please note that the specific compensation for this role will be determined based on experience, education and internal equity considerations. The hourly wage range for this position is $20.27-$28.61. This range reflects the base salary for this position.
Key Accountabilities
  • Reviews, analyzes, and abstracts pertinent patient information from paper records, external records, Continuity of Care Documents (CCDs), health information exchanges, and electronic medical records into the NH+C electronic medical record.
  • Ensures abstracted information is accurate, complete, appropriately categorized, and entered into the correct location within the electronic health record.
  • Identifies, investigates, and resolves inconsistencies, discrepancies, duplicate information, and incomplete documentation while maintaining the integrity of the medical record.
  • Assists with the review, validation, and reconciliation of external patient information, including medications, allergies, immunizations, procedures, diagnoses, and other clinically relevant data.
  • Maintains established productivity, quality, and accuracy standards while meeting deadlines and departmental expectations.
  • Demonstrates knowledge and appropriate use of the electronic medical record, document imaging systems, health information exchange platforms, and other technology utilized by NH+C.
  • Supports medical record integrity initiatives, chart review activities, data collection projects, document management processes, document imaging workflows, and other HIM-related responsibilities as assigned.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of patient information and complies with all HIPAA, privacy, security, regulatory, and organizational requirements.
  • Demonstrates the ability to work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team and communicate professionally with providers, leadership, and staff.
  • Assists with the receipt, review, indexing, validation, and management of external medical records to support continuity of care and accurate patient record maintenance.
  • Supports data integrity efforts by identifying duplicate, overlapping, or conflicting patient information and escalating concerns through established HIM processes.
  • Participates in departmental quality assurance activities, audits, training, and process improvement initiatives to promote accurate and complete medical records.
  • Performs other duties assigned in support of Health Information Management operations.

Required Qualifications
  • Experience in medical record abstraction, chart review, document imaging, CCD review, or a related healthcare field obtained through education and/or work experience.
  • Must be able to speak, read, and write English proficiently to ensure safe and effective communication in a healthcare environment.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree in Health Information Management, Healthcare Administration, Health Sciences, or related field.
  • RHIT, RHIA or other healthcare-related credentials.

Schedule
  • Full-time, 80 hours per two-week pay period
  • Monday-Friday Business Hours
  • This role requires working onsite in Northfield, MN.

Benefits
  • Paid Time Off accrued starting on first paycheck
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision (discount plan) coverage
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance
  • Pension Plan (PERA) with 7.5% employer match
  • Optional 457(b) Retirement Plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Loan Forgiveness Eligibility - PSLF + MN state programs for qualifying roles
  • Employer-Provided Certifications + Continuing Education
  • Additional perks: Free On-Site Parking, Qualified Bilingual Staff Program, Employee Assistance Program, and discounts on cafeteria, scrubs, and OTC pharmacy items

About Us
Northfield Hospital + Clinics is a trusted, independent healthcare system with more than 800 employees. We're recognized for our collaborative work environment and strong commitment to high-quality patient care and community impact. We're proud to be named to Becker's 2025 list of "100 Great Community Hospitals." Our services span the full spectrum of hospital and clinical care, with our main hospital located in Northfield, MN, and primary and specialty clinics in Northfield, Lakeville, Farmington, Faribault, and Kenyon-along with Urgent Care locations in Northfield, Lakeville, and Farmington. We offer care across 48 specialties and serve patients at 22 locations throughout the south metro and southern Minnesota.
Whether you're just starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find meaningful opportunities, supportive teams, and a chance to make a real difference here.
This job posting is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required of the position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Compensation, benefits, work schedules, and other terms and conditions of employment are subject to change in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and collective bargaining agreements, if applicable.

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