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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Health Information Managers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Health Information Managers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 28%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Develop and maintain computerized record management systems to store and process data, such as personnel activities and information, and to produce reports.
Direct, supervise and evaluate work activities of medical, nursing, technical, clerical, service, maintenance, and other personnel.
Plan, implement, and administer programs and services in a health care or medical facility, including personnel administration, training, and coordination of medical, nursing and physical plant staff.
Becoming a Health Information Manager requires a combination of education, certification, and experience in the field of health information management (HIM). If you're interested in pursuing this career, follow these steps to set yourself on the right path.
Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Most employers require at least a bachelor's degree in health information management or a related field such as healthcare administration or health informatics. Courses typically include health data management, medical terminology, health services and information systems, and health care statistics.
Consider Advancing Your Education: For some positions, especially at larger organizations or for more advanced roles, a master's degree may be preferred. Relevant graduate programs include a Master of Health Administration (MHA), Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus in healthcare management, or a Master of Science in Health Informatics.
Entry-Level Positions: Start with entry-level jobs in medical records departments or in health information technology. This can provide valuable hands-on experience with electronic health record (EHR) systems and an understanding of the daily operations of health information management.
Internships: Completing an internship as part of your degree program or independently is a great way to gain real-world experience and make connections in the industry.
Certified Professional in Health Information Management (CPHIM): While not always mandatory, obtaining certification can enhance your job prospects and credibility as a professional. One widely recognized credential is the CPHIM offered by Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).
Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA): Another common certification is the RHIA, administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). To be eligible for the RHIA exam, you typically need to have graduated from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Health information management is a rapidly evolving field. Continuing education and professional development are key to staying current with the latest technologies and regulations.
Networking: Join professional associations such as AHIMA or HIMSS to network with peers, attend conferences, and access resources for ongoing learning.
Advancement Opportunities: As you gain more experience and continue your education, look for opportunities to advance into senior management roles. These positions often require a deeper understanding of healthcare policy, strategic planning, and financial management within the context of health information systems.
By following these steps and committing to continuous learning and professional development, you can build a successful career as a Health Information Manager. Remember to leverage resources like professional associations and industry publications to stay ahead in this dynamic field.
To become a Health Information Manager (HIM), you typically need to have at least a bachelor's degree in health information management or a related field, such as healthcare administration or health informatics. Some employers may require a master's degree for advanced positions. Accredited programs often include coursework in medical terminology, coding systems, healthcare reimbursement methods, healthcare statistics, and information technology.
Yes, certifications can be an important part of a Health Information Manager career path. Some widely recognized certifications include:
These certifications are offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Obtaining certification can enhance job prospects and demonstrate professional competency.
As a Health Information Manager, you'll need a diverse set of skills that include:
The career progression in Health Information Management might look like this:
With experience and further education, you can move up to roles with more responsibility and higher pay.
The demand for skilled Health Information Managers remains strong due to the ongoing need for accurate and secure health records and data. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment in health information management and related fields will grow much faster than average in the coming years.
Health Information Managers typically work in settings such as:
The work environment is usually an office setting within these healthcare facilities.
To stay current in the field of Health Information Management:
Remote work opportunities for Health Information Managers have increased, especially with the rise of digital health records. However, the extent of remote work possibilities may depend on the employer's policies and the specific duties of the role.