How to switch from behavioral health to cliniucal documentation?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Changing specialties and breaking into a new field can be challenging, but it can be done with persistence, strategy, and opportunity.  Here's  a few ideas to help you transition:

• Understand the role. A clinical documentation specialist ensures that medical records are accurate and complete, supporting coding and billing, and complying with regulations. This can include working with providers to improve their documentation for reimbursement purposes.

• Leverage your clinical experience. As a nurse with behavioral health experience, you're already familiar with medical terminology, patient care documentation, and the importance of accurate records. This is a solid foundation for transitioning into a CDS role.
• Learn about health information management. You can take a course in clinical documentation or health information management from the Association of Clinical Documentation Integrity Specialists (ACDIS).
• Familiarize yourself with coding systems. Understanding coding systems like ICD-10/11 (International Classification of Diseases) and CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) can be very helpful, as CDS roles often involve working with coders. 
• Highlight transferable skills in your application, particularly your knowledge of clinical terminology, documentation practices, and patient care processes. Your background will give you a leg up in understanding the clinical side of things, which is a big part of accurate documentation.
• Network with others in the field. Join forums or LinkedIn groups related to clinical documentation or health information management to connect with others who have made similar transitions or are currently in the field.

Apply, apply, apply, and network! Every time you apply is a chance to land an interview, and every interview is a learning opportunity. 

Let everyone know you are looking for something in the field. Sometimes, opportunities come from unexpected places. 

Consider any offer to get your foot in the door and gain that valuable 1-2 years of experience.

Very best wishes and good luck!

Nurse Beth