Medical Records Specialists
O*NET 29-2072.00 · SOC 29-2072
Medical Records Specialist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $51k a year with +7.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 14,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Review patient records for accuracy and completeness
- →Assign diagnostic and procedure codes using ICD and CPT systems
- →Process requests for release of patient medical information
- →Enter patient data into electronic health record systems
- →Audit medical records to ensure regulatory compliance standards
Education & How to Get In
Most Medical Records Specialist positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Medical Records Specialist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Medical Records Specialist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Medical Records Specialist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Medical Records Specialists is projected to grow 7.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·59% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Medical Records Specialist make?
The median Medical Records Specialist earns $51k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Medical Records Specialist jobs?
Our model puts Medical Records Specialist at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 59% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Medical Records Specialist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 7.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 14,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Medical Records Specialist?
Most Medical Records Specialist roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Medical Records Specialist?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Medical Records Specialist career right for you?
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