Your Guide to Healthcare Information Management Certification Success

Understanding Health Information Management Certification

• Health information management (HIM) certification is a credential that demonstrates expertise in managing and protecting patient health information.

• HIM certification is essential for healthcare professionals who want to advance their careers and take on leadership roles in health information management.

• The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers several HIM certifications, including the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) and Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credentials.

Benefits of Certification

• HIM certification can lead to career advancement opportunities and higher salaries.

• Certified HIM professionals are in high demand, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 9% growth in employment opportunities through 2030.

• Certification demonstrates expertise and commitment to the field of health information management.

Top Certifications

• Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certification is ideal for professionals who want to take on leadership roles in health information management.

• Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification is designed for professionals who work directly with medical records and coding.

• Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is ideal for professionals who want to demonstrate expertise in medical coding.

Preparing for Certification

Choosing the Right Health Information Management Courses

• Look for courses that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

• Choose courses that align with your career goals and interests.

• Consider online courses that offer flexibility and convenience.

Preparing for the RHIA Exam

• Use study materials and resources provided by AHIMA, such as practice exams and study guides.

• Develop a study plan and schedule to ensure you are prepared for the exam.

• Consider joining a study group or seeking mentorship from a certified HIM professional.

Certification Exam Process and Timelines

• The RHIA exam is administered by the AHIMA Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM).

• The exam is based on the RHIA competencies and tasks.

• Candidates can cancel their exam up to 15 days before the exam date without a fee.

Maintaining Certification through Continuing Education

• Certified HIM professionals must complete continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain their certification.

• CEUs can be earned through AHIMA-approved education programs, conferences, and workshops.

• Certified professionals must also adhere to the AHIMA Code of Ethics.

Career Opportunities and Salary Ranges

• Certified HIM professionals can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and health information management companies.

• Salary ranges vary depending on location, experience, and certification level, but certified HIM professionals can earn up to $91,250 per year.

• Career opportunities include health information manager, health information analyst, and health information coordinator.

Admission and Prerequisite Courses

• Admission requirements vary depending on the program, but typically include a bachelor’s degree and prerequisite courses in health information management.

• Prerequisite courses may include medical terminology, anatomy, and health information management principles.

• Applicants must also submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.

What to Expect from a Health Information Management Certificate Program?

• A HIM certificate program will provide education and training in health information management principles, medical coding, and health informatics.

• Programs may include coursework, internships, and practicum experiences.

• Graduates will be eligible to sit for the RHIA exam and pursue certification.