Health Promotion and Education - Computer Technician - Public Health

GENERAL DESCRIPTION The primary function of this position is to maintain and support the computing infrastructure of the ATCPHD’s data network. Under the direction and supervision of the Director of Nursing, this position provides technical support for computer systems, software, peripheral devices, networks, and other technologies.

This position serves as the super-user for the ATCPHD’s electronic health record (EHR) system and other assigned Public Health software. The position supports EHR system functionality, data integrity, user training, and reporting needs. Works collaboratively with Public Health staff and leadership to support technology operations and departmental program performance.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED This position exercises no supervision. IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES Prepares computers for installation using imaging software and performing various configuration tasks. Installs computer systems, peripherals, and software; includes preparatory tasks, transportation, physical networking, and power management and protection.

Performs troubleshooting (which may include Internet research and vendor contact) to correct computer hardware and software malfunctions. Provides user training and support regarding the use of technology. Maintains and updates skills as required to remain proficient with respect to advances in computing technologies.

Oversees the daily functionality and use of the electronic health record (EHR) system and other assigned Public Health software, serving as the departmental super-user. Manages EHR user access, including adding and removing users, maintaining permissions, and supporting system security and functionality. Provides technical assistance and training to departmental staff regarding EHR functionality, documentation workflows, and proper system use.

Conducts routine EHR audits and reviews to identify data quality concerns, incomplete documentation, compliance issues, and system-use discrepancies. Monitors data accuracy, completeness, and integrity; identifies trends, inconsistencies, and discrepancies and communicates findings to appropriate staff and leadership.

Generates, maintains, reviews, and assists with operational, programmatic, and other required reports to support departmental reporting requirements and program performance. Collaborates with program staff, departmental leadership, and technical support personnel to troubleshoot EHR issues, resolve system problems, and improve system workflows.

Performs other related maintenance activities, such as installation, troubleshooting, and repair of the core network infrastructure, including: designing and modifying computer network configurations; installation and management of networking devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls, and specifying and installing physical network media such as patch panels, cabling, and associated mounting and racking hardware.

Serves as the super-user for the EHR, providing technical support, adding and deleting users, data migrations, and facilitating reports as requested. Operate a city vehicle daily as required to travel to various City facilities as needed. OTHER JOB RELATED DUTIES Provide direct support to systems administrators and others as required.

Performs other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of: Basic computing concepts; fundamental networking concepts. Windows operating systems, mainstream client software applications, productivity software, and common utilities. Computer hardware components and functions; computer repair techniques.

EHR functions and usage within the context of public health. Standard user services including all directory services. Skill to: Skill in providing technical assistance and user support for electronic health record (EHR) systems and other public health software applications. Skill in configuring and maintaining user accounts, system permissions, and role-based access in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Skill in troubleshooting electronic health record (EHR) system issues involving user access, documentation, workflows, and reporting. Skill in reviewing and auditing electronic health record (EHR) data to identify incomplete documentation, inaccurate entries, inconsistencies, and potential data quality concerns. Skill in generating, reviewing, validating, and maintaining reports using electronic health record (EHR) reporting functions, spreadsheet applications, and other approved reporting tools.

Skill in using Microsoft Excel or similar applications to organize, filter, reconcile, and analyze data. Skill in developing and maintaining training materials, reference guides, and written procedures for EHR and technology-related processes. Ability To: Ability to provide individual and group training to employees with varying levels of technical knowledge.

Ability to communicate technical information and system requirements clearly and effectively to clinical, administrative, and leadership staff. Develop a thorough understanding of public health programs, clinical documentation requirements, and the technology systems used to support departmental operations. Work collaboratively with nursing staff, program managers, administrative personnel, and IT professionals to identify and resolve technology-related issues.

Identify patterns, trends, and discrepancies in electronic health record (EHR) data and communicate findings to appropriate personnel. Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when accessing or working with sensitive patient, employee, or organizational information. Prioritize competing technical support requests while maintaining continuity of essential public health services.

Independently research and troubleshoot technical problems while recognizing when issues require escalation to system administrators, software vendors, or departmental leadership. Adapt to software updates, changes in healthcare documentation requirements, and evolving technology needs. Support quality improvement initiatives through accurate reporting, data review, workflow evaluation, and technical assistance.

Maintain organized records of system issues, user access changes, training activities, and other assigned system administration functions. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally. Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect. Experience and Training Guidelines : For positions with more than one level, all listed requirements at the lower levels are required at the higher levels. Any combination equivalent to experience and training to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through: Experience One (1) to three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in computer technical support, information technology operations, healthcare information systems, electronic health record (EHR) support, or a closely related field is preferred. Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: Installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer hardware, software, peripheral devices, and network-connected equipment.

Providing technical support, troubleshooting assistance, and end-user training in a professional or organizational environment. Supporting, administering, or serving as a super-user for an electronic health record (EHR), electronic medical record (EMR), or other healthcare information management system. Managing user accounts, system permissions, role-based access, and system security settings.

Supporting healthcare or public health workflows, including electronic documentation, patient registration, clinical encounters, and program-related data entry. Performing routine data quality reviews, documentation audits, record reconciliation, and troubleshooting data discrepancies. Generating, validating, and maintaining operational, clinical, administrative, or programmatic reports.

Working with software vendors, IT personnel, and program staff to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve system-related issues. Supporting technology systems that handle confidential, sensitive, or protected health information. Experience working in a public health department, healthcare organization, government agency, or similarly regulated environment is preferred.

Education/Training : A high school diploma or GED is required. College-level coursework, technical training, or relevant experience in computer information systems, information technology, computer science, health information technology, healthcare informatics, or a related field is preferred. An associate degree or higher in information technology, computer science, health information management, healthcare informatics, or a related field is preferred.

Relevant industry certifications are preferred, including but not limited to: CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+ Microsoft technology or administration certifications Health information technology or EHR-related training and certifications Vendor-specific EHR system training or certifications Training or demonstrated knowledge in healthcare information privacy, data security, HIPAA requirements, and confidential information management is preferred.

Required License or Certification: A valid Texas driver’s license; the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days, or a military waiver is required. Special Requirements : Withstanding exposure to noise, vibration, cool temperatures, computer monitor screens, and electrical hazards. Use a mouse and keyboard.

Essential duties

require the following physical skills and work environment: With or without accommodation, the “X” indicates the overall strength demand of the position during a typical workday: ___ Sedentary – lifting of no more than 10 pounds ___ Light – lifting no more than 20 pounds; carrying up to 10 pounds X Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds ___ Heavy – lifting no more than 100 pounds; carrying up to 50 pounds ___ Very Heavy – team lifting over 100 pounds; carrying more than 50 pounds Physical Demand Codes: The following describes whether or not the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task: Codes for how often: N = No E = Extensive (100 – 70% of the time) M = Moderate (60 – 30% of the time) I = Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time) A = Almost Never (<10% of the time) Code / Task M Standing M Sitting M Walking M_ Lifting M Carrying I_ Pushing/Pulling A Overhead Work E Fine Dexterity M Kneeling M Crouching A Crawling M Bending M Twisting A Climbing M Balancing E Vision E Hearing E Talking ___ Other: __