Frequently Asked Questions

What is Health Information Management Technology?
Taking the elements of healthcare documentation, health data, reimbursement, and combine them with computerized technology and data gathering tools and the result is Health Information Management Technology.

Are certifications required to work in this field?
Individuals who graduate from this accredited associate degree program are eligible to take the RHIT certification exam.  Individuals who graduate from an accredited baccalaureate degree program are eligible to take the RHIA examination.

What do the abbreviations RHIT and RHIA mean?
RHIT means Registered Health Information Technician and RHIA stands for Registered Health Information Administrator.

Can I get a job once I complete my education?
Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics, careers in the field of Health Information Technology Management are expected to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations through the year 2008.

Do you have a Preceptor program?
No, but as part of your educational experience, you are required to complete an internship, practicum, or professional practice experience.  This integral part of the curriculum allows for students to apply classroom experiences into a practical workplace environment.

Can I continue my education once I receive an Associate’s Degree?
Students who complete the HIT degree program can transfer to a Bachelor’s degree program at surrounding universities in the area.  These include; UMDNJ/Kean in New Jersey (http://shrp.umdnj.edu/programs/HIM/UMDNJmanual.html), Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, (http://www.temple.edu/chp/departments/him/) and  Gwynedd-Mercy College Ambler, PA (http://www.gmc.edu/academics/allied_health/him.php).

What kind of professional opportunities are there in the field of Health Information Technology Management?

Exciting positions in the field include, but are not limited to:

• Clinical data specialist – responsible for data management functions:  coding, outcome management, registry, and database management

• Coder – reviews medical records to determine appropriate diagnostic and procedural codes to be used for claims processing and statistical purposes

• Data Quality Manager – develops and implements quality improvement activities for data integrity such as policies and audits

• Information Security Manager – responsible for processes controlling integrity and confidentiality of patient, provider, employee, and business information

• Research Data Analyst – ensures the quality of data collection, coordination and quality analysis for clinical research projects

What is the salary range for this field?
The salary range is from $39,100 to $54,700 depending on the level of education and certification. Source www.ahima.org

You may contact the Division of Math, Science, and Health Careers at HIT@camdencc.edu , or you can contact AHIMA at www.ahima.org.