Health Information Management Professional
Health information management professionals collect, record, review and manage health information. They make sure personal health information stays intact and private. They also collect and interpret data used to make decisions about health services.
Access and Disclosure Specialist, Coding Specialist, Data Analyst, Health Record Administrator, Information Specialist, Release of Information Specialist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
- 2006 NOC:Health Records Technicians
- 2006 NOC-S:Records Management and Filing Clerks
- 2011 NOC:Health information management occupations
- 2016 NOC:Health information management occupations
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
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What Degree Do I Need
There are several pathways to a job as a health information manager. You can get a health information management role with an associate degree in a related field plus several years of on-the-job experience. However, if you know health information management is what you want to do, you should probably consider earning at least a bachelors degree. Earning a bachelors in health information management will allow you to take on health information management roles without years of prior experience.
If youre looking beyond entry-level roles, consider a masters degree. Not only will this degree allow you to apply for advanced roles that might offer more responsibilities and a higher salary, but it will also prepare you to stay in the field for years to come. Plus, you have options when it comes to a masters degree. If your bachelors degree is in health information management, you can choose a masters in a related area, such as public health.
Pursley recommends getting your knowledge base from a bachelors in health information management and then adding the optional Registered Health Information Administrator certification offered through AHIMA. This, Pursley says, is the best path to open up the best variety of opportunities.
Why Choose Health Information Management As A Career
Health information management professionals work at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and business. While electronic medical record systems are no longer novel, the way we collect, use, store, access, share, and protect data continues to evolve. New technologies, best practices, and regulations are creating new fields and specializations within the healthcare industry.
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Contacts For More Information About This Section
For more information about medical records specialists, including details about certification, visit
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook at .
Thursday, October 27, 2022
Health Information Management And Nursing Informatics: Whats The Difference
Health information management and nursing informatics roles sound similar. Its true that professionals in these roles often work closely in healthcare facilities, but there are significant differences between them.
Its definitely very intertwined, says Pursley. Nursing informatics is focused on nursing science and how related information is used to enhance clinical care, while the focus of health information managers is much broader. interact with many different stakeholders, including those in nursing, including providers, labs, radiology, case management, compliance, and the list goes on. Health Information managers need to bridge the gaps. And thats exactly what we do.
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Health Information Management Careers Outlook Job Titles And Salaries
Home » Stories & News » Health Information Management Careers Outlook, Job Titles, and Salaries
The health information management career outlook is bright. The U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of medical and health services managers will grow by 32 percent between 2020 and 2030far outpacing the average for all occupations in the United States.
High Job Placement For Hihim Grads
Among 2017 graduates, 91 percent found employment within a year of completing the program. Our graduates enter the job market with a versatile skill set that allows them to work in many different capacities, including positions as:
- Health information specialists and managers
- Electronic health records implementation specialists
- Release of information specialists
- Business analysts
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Is It Possible To Get Certified When I Graduate
Yes! Students in the final semester of study in the HIMS program are eligible to sit for the professional certification exam to become a Registered Health Information Administrator , a professional credential that is recognized throughout the healthcare industry. Upon passing the exam and earning the baccalaureate degree, HIMS graduates may use the credential.
In addition, the knowledge and skills gained through the HIMS curriculum along with practical work experience makes the graduate eligible for additional certifications in specialty areas such as clinical coding, and health care privacy and security. Such certifications add to the professionalism and employability of the graduate as the graduate moves through his or her career. A credential has been found to increase the earning power of an individual over time.
More information about credentials can be found at the American Health Information Management Association website: Certifications Overview | AHIMA
Earn A Bachelors Degree In A Relevant Field
A four-year degree from an accredited university is generally the minimum education requirement for an HIM position, according to the BLS. Earning a degree such as an online Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management can provide students with a foundational understanding of healthcare practices, business operations, and professional standards, as well as issues such as medical law, compliance, and risk management. Students can also take courses in healthcare informatics to learn about software and technologies they may use in their future careers.
Those who successfully complete a BS in Healthcare Management program are often equipped with many of the necessary skills and the educational background to pursue a career as an HIM.
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Occupational Employment And Wage Statistics
The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link below go to OEWS data maps for employment and wages by state and area.
Health Information Technology Job Titles And Salaries
Job titles and salaries of health IT professionals vary considerably and are usually dependent on work setting and experience. A University of Wisconsin Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and Technology can be the foundation for health IT positions, including:
- Systems analyst
- Chief technology officer
- Chief information officer
The most recent HIMSS Compensation Survey reported that the average health IT salary in a sample of 885 professionals was $109,610, showing a steady pay increase over the last decade.
According to an earlier HIMSS survey, health information technology professionals with less than two years of health IT experience made $62,780, in contrast to those with more than 21 years of experience who made $122,663.
Also, those with health information technology career experience earned an average of $22,716 more than those with the same amount of experience in other IT fieldsshowing that in healthcare, health IT knowledge and skills are much more valuable than a general IT background.
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Health Information Management Careers Spotlight
HIM Manager
HIM managers plan, organize, oversee, and coordinate day-to-day activities related to medical documentation within HIM departments. Its their job to make sure medical data is current, accurate, and in compliance with institutional ethical standards and patient privacy laws. They may direct and train staff, develop department budget, and evaluate daily procedures so that medical records are documented and completed in a timely fashion. If they work for a large health system, HIM managers may report to an HIM director. According to the latest AHIMA Salary Survey, the average manager-level HIM professional earns $79,690.
HIM Director
HIM director is one of the highest-ranking positions in HIM. Directors oversee health information management departments for healthcare systems. They develop organizational goals, manage large HIM teams, and ensure the facility complies with all laws and guidelines related to health record documentation. HIM directors also maintain external relationships with state and national organizations to keep departments up to date on regulations and trends in HIM. The average salary for a director-level HIM professional is $100,620 according to AHIMAs Salary Survey.
Source: AHIMA US Salary Survey Report: HIM Professionals in 2019
Where Can I Find Out More About Health Information Management Professionals In Canada
For general career information and job search ideas, refer to the Introductory Page.
More details about health information management professionals and the health industry are available from the following organizations:
The Canadian Institute for Health Information works with interested users across Canada to improve the health systems use of electronic health data. It works with the Canada Health Infoway and other organizations to improve patient experiences, support front-line care providers, and build a better health system using knowledge.
Canada Health Infoway has many documents and links which are useful in understanding the health data standards landscape. Infoway works by investing money and working with provinces and territories to improve health care through information technology.
Canadian Health Information Management Association represents approximately 5,000 health information management professionals across Canada and is the certifying body and national association. Together with the Canadian College of Health Information Management , CHIMA sets standards by which health information management education programs are evaluated to make sure students are prepared to meet the national standards for becoming certified professionals. For a listing of schools that have accredited health information management programs, click here.
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What Does A Health Information Manager Do
Health information managers organize, oversee, and protect patient health information data which includes symptoms, diagnoses, medical histories, test results, and procedures. These administrative professionals make sure that traditional and digital medical data maintains its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security. They serve as an essential link between physicians, patients, and third-party payers.
They are trained in information technology applications and often serve in bridge roles, connecting clinical, operational, and administrative functions. They enter patient information into computer databases to comply with federal legislation mandating the use of electronic medical records.
Health Information Management Job Outlook
According to the BLS, the opportunities for growth in the healthcare information management sector should remain to be quite strong in the coming years. The increased need for expertise in dealing with electronic records is believed to be the reason why the BLS projects a growth of around 22% for the next decade.
According to Indeed.com, the average national salary of jobs for Health Information Management was $61,000.00 with a high confidence ranking based on over 250 sources. Average Health Information Management salaries for job postings nationwide are 6% higher than average salaries for all job postings nationwide.
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Where Jobs Are Located In Ontario
Economic RegionCensus DivisionCensus metropolitan area and census agglomeration . Job Bank.
Note: Job posting data are extracted by Burning Glass Technologies from online job postings in English and are only available in the original language of extraction. Read our full disclaimer for more information on job posting data.
Ontarios labour market information website is developed for use as a resource to help people explore career options. The job outlooks for each occupation use projections of future job openings and should be interpreted with caution. Shifts in the rate of economic growth, technological developments, business restructuring, or changes in government policies can all affect the future growth prospects or skill requirements of the labour market.
Job outlooks have been developed for Ontario as a whole, and may not reflect the situation in each local labour market. The number and type of employers, the occupational make-up of the workforce, and other local economic conditions all contribute to the employment prospects for an occupation in a given community.
The accuracy of the information presented for in-demand skills and knowledge and other sections based on job posting data depends, in part, on whether jobs are categorized into the correct occupational groups. In some cases, job postings may be incorrectly attributed to an occupational grouping and the data should be interpreted with caution.
National Occupational Classification Update
We have updated this page to reflect the transition to the 2021 version of the National Occupational Classification . This means that the occupation “health information management practitioner” was moved from the group Health information management occupations to the group Health information management occupations .
Explore current and future job prospects for people working as a “health information management practitioner” in Alberta or Canada.
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What Might The Typical Work Conditions Be
Health information management professionals may work full-time or part-time or on a casual basis. They can work in positions that are permanent, temporary, or casual depending on department and facility needs. Schedules may include a combination of day, evening, night, weekend, and holiday shifts, and sometimes on-call duty.
Health information management professionals work with a combination of paper and electronic health records, so they must use a computer and sit for long periods of time. This job can require individuals to do repetitive tasks and motions, like data entry and manually indexing health information.
Health Information Management Career Outlook
The growth in healthcare employment is expected to continue, and the job outlook for HIM candidates is also positive. The BLS forecasts employment of medical and health services managers including HIMs to grow by 18% from 2018 to 2028.
The reason for this favorable outlook is multifold. First, the widespread and growing use of electronic healthcare records should continue to create demand for both HIMs and the health information technology professionals who support them. Second, qualified professionals will be needed to replace managers who plan to retire in the near future. Candidates who have a masters degree in health administration, along with those who have advanced knowledge of healthcare IT systems, are more likely to have enhanced career opportunities.
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How To Start A Health Information Management Career
If youre interested in health information management, you might be wondering how to start. First, youll need to attend an accredited college or university program. And in most cases, youll need a Bachelors degree such as the one offered here through Cambridge.
During this program, youll learn how to create and analyze health records, utilize software to improve outcomes, bill and code medical diagnoses and treatments, and so much more.
After you complete your program, youll be eligible to take two different certification exams, including the Certified Coding Specialist and the Certified Coding Associate exams. These certifications will help you show off your new skills to potential employers.
Ready To Get Started In A Health Information Career
If youre interested in health information management jobs and youre something of a technology aficionado, the opportunities within the HIM sector are sure to pique your interest. The seven careers outlined above offer a true-to-market sampling of the many opportunities that await.
Can you envision yourself succeeding in one of these career paths? If youre eager about the prospect and hungry to learn more about your options, then head over to our Health Information Management Bachelors degree page for more information.
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Health Information Managers Are In High Demand
As technology continues to evolve, so does the need for qualified health information managers skilled in medical record management. Thats why HIM professionals are in high demand across the country.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medical and health services management career path will grow by a whopping 32% between now and 2030. This is much faster than average growth for all other occupations.
Many organizations are currently looking for HIM professionals to fill available positions, including hospitals, clinics, doctors offices, non-profits, software companies and more. The skys the limit in HIM.
What Kinds Of Jobs Can I Get With An Him Degree
HIM offers a variety of different career paths from technical work, such as coding and billing, to management and leadership roles. HIM professionals are employed by hospitals, physician offices, surgery centers, long-term care facilities, consulting firms, government agencies and even insurance companies.
Entry-level job titles might include:
- Medical records technician
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Is Health Information Management In Demand
Health information management professionals work to improve patient care. Theyre a critical member of any healthcare organization and are required to improve outcomes. This fact has inspired many organizations to seek out health information management professionals, resulting in growth for this healthcare career path.
What Is The Job Outlook For Health Information Management Consultants
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical and health services manager positions are projected to grow by 20 percent in the next decade, which is much quicker than the average for all jobs. This area includes health information management positions, and the BLS notes that the demand for workers with informatics and database training skills are in especially high demand. This is due in large part to more healthcare companies, hospitals, and other medical facilities transitioning to using electronic health records, which creates the need for health information management consultants to provide solutions for and developing new HIM systems, better database security, and routine maintenance.
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