Health Information Technologist

Your Fit

Income

$63K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

16.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Health Information Technologist?

A Health Information Technologist, also known as a Medical Records and Health Information Technician, specializes in managing, processing, and maintaining medical records and health information data. They ensure the quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security of health information systems in various healthcare settings.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Health Information Technologist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Health Information Technologist earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$38K per year	$47K per year	$63K per year	$87K per year	$108K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $15K above the national average.

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What does a Health Information Technologist do?

Work environment

Health Information Technologists typically work in hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices, nursing homes, and public health agencies. Their work environment is usually office-based and involves significant time working with computers and electronic health records. They may interact with healthcare professionals but have limited direct contact with patients.

Quick task list

Organizes and manages patients' health information data.
Ensures the quality, accuracy, and security of medical records.
Uses classification systems to code and categorize patient information.
Maintains electronic health records (EHRs) systems.
Complies with healthcare laws and regulations regarding health information.

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Areas of specialization

Clinical Data Management: Focusing on managing and analyzing clinical data for healthcare improvement.
Health Informatics: Specializing in the integration of healthcare, information technology, and business.
Medical Coding and Billing: Expertise in coding medical procedures and diagnoses for billing and insurance purposes.
Cancer Registrars: Specializing in maintaining databases of cancer patients.
Privacy and Security Compliance: Concentrating on protecting patient data and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

Description

Health Information Technologists are vital to the efficient and effective operation of healthcare facilities. They play a key role in ensuring that patient records are accurate, properly coded, and securely maintained. This involves using specialized software to organize, analyze, and manage health information. Their work supports the billing process, healthcare statistics, and quality improvement initiatives.

In this role, attention to detail is paramount, as the data handled directly impacts patient care and billing. Technologists must be knowledgeable about the latest healthcare regulations and technologies. They often serve as a bridge between healthcare providers and the administrative side of healthcare, ensuring smooth communication and data flow.

The field of health information technology is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in healthcare IT. Professionals in this field must be willing to continually update their skills and adapt to changing technologies. The role offers a unique blend of healthcare knowledge and information technology expertise.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a critical role in the healthcare system through managing essential data.
Opportunities to work with cutting-edge health information technologies.
The satisfaction of contributing to patient care indirectly through data management.

You might make a good Health Information Technologist if you are...

Interested in both healthcare and information technology.
Detail-oriented and meticulous with data.
Skilled in organizing and analyzing information.
Committed to maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive patient information.
Adaptable to new technologies and regulations in healthcare.

Pros:

Stable and growing field with increasing demand for health information technology expertise.
Opportunities to work in various healthcare settings.
Relatively short educational path to entry-level positions.

Cons:

Mostly desk-bound and computer-centric work environment.
Need to continually update skills to keep pace with changing technologies and regulations.
Responsibility of handling sensitive and confidential patient information.

How to become a Health Information Technologist

Typical education

Most positions require at least an Associate's degree in Health Information Technology or a related field, which usually takes about 2 years to complete. Additionally, many employers prefer or require certification, such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential.

High school preparation

Courses:

Computer Science to develop skills in software and database management.
Biology or Health Sciences for foundational knowledge of healthcare.
Mathematics, particularly statistics, for data analysis skills.
Business or Healthcare Administration for understanding the administrative side of healthcare.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering at healthcare facilities to gain exposure to the healthcare environment.
Participating in computer or technology clubs.
Engaging in community service, emphasizing data management or technology-related projects.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in an accredited Associate's degree program in Health Information Technology.
Consider obtaining certifications such as the RHIT or Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR), depending on your area of interest.
Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in healthcare facilities.
Stay updated with continuing education courses to keep up with technological advancements in health IT.

More resources

American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) - Provides resources, certification, and educational programs for health information professionals.
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) - Offers a broad range of resources on healthcare IT and informatics.
Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) Certification - Information about the RHIT certification offered by AHIMA, which is a recognized credential for health information technicians.

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