Analysis of the Evolving Role of Health Information Management Professionals in the Digital Era as Coders, Data Analysts, and Privacy Officers at Universitas Padjadjaran Hospital

Abstract

Advances in health information technology and the mandatory implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) have transformed the work of Health Information Management (HIM) professionals. This study analyzed changes in HIM professional roles and competency strategies at Universitas Padjadjaran Hospital during digital transformation. A descriptive qualitative case-study design was applied using semi-structured interviews, passive participant observation, document review, and literature review. Four key informants were purposively selected: the medical records unit coordinator, a coding officer, a reporting officer, and a senior information technology officer. Observation was conducted for 21 working days in April 2026 for approximately four hours per day. The findings indicate a clear transition from paper-based document management to data-driven functions. Traditional tasks such as filing, assembling, and physical retrieval have decreased, while strategic roles as clinical coders, health data analysts, and privacy officers have become increasingly important. Operational challenges included incomplete electronic documentation, bridging problems between the hospital information system and BPJS services, system downtime, and the need for stricter access control and audit trails. Digitalization therefore changes rather than eliminates the HIM profession, requiring continuous re-skilling in coding accuracy, data analytics, interoperability, and information privacy.