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Health information management (HIM) professionals play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of healthcare systems. In this blog post, we will delve into the field of health information management, explain the everyday tasks involved, and discuss ways to enter the industry. This article will also outline how Ashton College's DHIM program can assist those interested in pursuing a career in this field and provide information on various specializations, career paths, and opportunities for professional development.
The primary goal of health information management is to contribute to an effective healthcare system in order to offer the best possible care for patients. This field combines healthcare with analytical work, data management, and administration, all using the latest technology. Health information management professionals work in various healthcare establishments such as hospitals, clinics, workplace health and safety boards, and health record consulting firms. These institutions depend on the accuracy, organization, security, and accessibility of patient data and electronic medical records (EMR) to provide personalized care, precise diagnoses, and suitable treatment decisions. Ultimately, this improves health outcomes and fosters confidentiality and patient trust.
HIM professionals collect, record, review, and update health information like diagnoses, test results, medical histories, and procedure notes. They also create medical, social, and administrative statistics and analyze patient data to identify trends and patterns, such as high-risk populations. This helps healthcare organizations develop targeted preventive care strategies. Additionally, they implement, use, and update software or health information systems, including new technologies like Electronic Health Records (EHRs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain technology. HIM professionals may also code patient data or collaborate with coders to ensure its safety.
To begin working as a health information practitioner in Canada, you typically complete a two- to four-year diploma or degree program. While certification isn't mandatory, the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM) sets accreditation standards for educational programs. Earning their certification significantly boosts your job prospects, as many employers expect it from graduates.
Ashton College offers a two-year Diploma in Health Information Management (DHIM), which has been accredited by CCHIM, demonstrating that the program is aligned with industry standards and provides the knowledge and skills essential for a successful career in HIM. Graduates of the DHIM program are eligible to write CCHIM’s Certified in Health Information Management (CHIM) national certification examination (NCE).
This program prepares you for an HIM career by providing a comprehensive understanding of the profession, privacy legislation, coding systems, and data analytics. You will learn medical terminology, collect and prepare healthcare data, and observe HIM from a business standpoint. You will also examine health statistics and understand security and privacy policies. The program is not only suitable for beginners but also for those already in the industry as well as international graduates. The program is delivered in a flexible online, instructor-led format and focuses on hands-on learning. An integrated practicum ensures students gain real-life experience and are job-ready upon graduation.
According to CHIMA’s HIM Career matrix, the HIM field can be classified into seven areas of specialization, each offering entry-level to top-level executive roles.
Once you have graduated from a HIM program and, ideally, acquired your CHIM certification, you are ready for your first entry-level job in HIM. You may qualify for positions such as Privacy Analyst, Health Records Abstractor, Junior Coder, Research Assistant, and Health Policy Analyst. Such entry-level roles allow you to gain work experience, improve your skillset, and explore your interests.
HIM practitioners commonly advance into an intermediate position after three to seven years in an entry-level role. Some may enter a mid-level job immediately by obtaining a bachelor's degree. Some intermediate positions include Health Data Administrator, Privacy Specialist, Content Management Specialist, and Data Integrity Specialist.
Many people start considering additional qualifications such as an MBA in health care management once they have worked in their careers for over seven years and found their specialization. Often, their goal is to improve their earning potential and be considered for senior or executive positions. These include Director of Health Information, Data Exchange Standards Lead, Program Coordinator HIM, and Senior Policy Analyst.
Are you interested in getting started in the exciting field of HIM? Take the first step now by applying to Ashton College’s DHIM program: https://www.ashtoncollege.ca/programs/diploma-in-health-information-management/
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