What It Takes to Be a Health Information Technician

Health Information Technician At a Glance

Health information technology is an interdisciplinary field in which technology is used to manage healthcare information and protect patient privacy. A health information technician’s top goal is to ensure that patient data is accurate and kept secure according to local and national regulations.

Steps to Become a Health Information Technician

If you want to pursue a career in this field, consider using these steps as a guide.

What Is a Health Information Technician?

Health information technicians use software and apps to organize, analyze, and manage patient data, including exam records, test results, medical histories, treatment plans, and other electronic health records (EHRs).

Some health information technicians also take on medical billing and coding, tasks that ensure healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services.

Job Duties

Health information technicians collaborate with medical professionals to make sure electronic data is accurate and clear, and with administrators to improve information management.

A typical day for a health information technician could involve any or all of these duties and responsibilities:

• Ensure the quality of medical and other health records by verifying that they are complete and accurate
• Use computer applications to assemble and organize patient data
• Assist management or administrative teams with data analysis to improve patient care or control costs
• Make sure patient records are secure, private, and in compliance with state and federal regulations
• Code patient diagnoses and procedures so healthcare providers can be reimbursed for their services

While most health information technicians work in hospitals, they’re also found in other healthcare settings. Wherever they work, their typical responsibilities remain largely the same: organizing, managing, and analyzing patient data and records. Workplaces that hire health information technicians include:

Education

You’ll need at least an associate degree to become a health information technician. With a bachelor’s degree, however, you may be eligible for higher-paying jobs and have more opportunities to advance.

“Some employers require managers and above to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree,” says John Richey, MBA, RHIA, FAHIMA, director of academic education services for the American Health Information Management Association.

But, Richey adds, “employers who do not require managers and above to possess a baccalaureate degree are very well-served by professionals who hold the (Registered Health Information Technician) RHIT credential.”

Without a degree, you could pursue a certificate program for medical records specialists. This role is somewhat similar to healthcare information technician, but it has fewer responsibilities and doesn’t require management or analytical skills.

Associate Degree in Health Information Management

Here are some basics about earning this degree.

Bachelor’s in Health Information Management

A bachelor’s degree will give students a more in-depth education and a deeper understanding of the intersection of healthcare and technology.

Online Programs

There are many online degree programs in health information management. They could be a good choice for people who work while going to school or have family responsibilities and need flexibility.

Some programs offer classes both online and in the classroom. Online classes are often recorded, allowing a student to watch or listen and their convenience. An online option could be best for students who are organized and able to pace themselves and their work.

Certifications

Certification—while not required—demonstrates your expertise and knowledge. One or more of these credentials can give you an edge in your job search and help you move into management.

“In an industry that values education and experience, earning a certification is proof of a robust education and an ongoing commitment to staying relevant in a complex and evolving space,” says Richey.

Here are two common certifications for healthcare information technicians.

Median Annual Salary

The median national salary for health information technicians is $62,990, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Billers and coders are included in this category, so the education, expertise, and responsibilities of these professionals can vary greatly.

Highest-Paying Metro Areas

One factor that can play a role in a health information technician’s salary is location. According to the BLS, these are the 10 highest-paying metropolitan areas for this role.

Cities with the Highest Demand for Health Information Technicians

Demand also can be a factor in your salary. Here are the cities with the highest number of health information technicians, according to BLS figures. As expected, states with large populations lead the pack.

Job Outlook

Health information technicians have a promising job outlook. “Demand is on the rise at all levels of education and credentialing of health information,” says Richey.

The BLS projects this job to grow 16.5% through 2032, much faster than the national average for all jobs. The growing baby boomer population is responsible for much of the increasing demand for healthcare.

Professional Resources

As you start your career as a health information technician, professional organizations can help you move ahead. Many provide networking opportunities, conferences, continuing education, and news about trends in your industry.

You may want to consider joining one or more of these organizations to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.