As more people in the US approach retirement age, healthcare providers face the challenge of meeting an increasing demand for care. By 2050, 1 in 4 Americans will be over age 65. Advancements in health information technology will play a vital role in maintaining the quality of patient care.
What is a Health Information Technician?
Health information technicians are responsible for the information that drives healthcare, ensuring that it is accurate, accessible and secure. They specialize in managing medical records and they possess the skills to think critically and problem solve. These professionals play a key role in preparing, analyzing and maintaining medical records and are accountable for the privacy and security of medical data.
Health information technicians ensure that the data input into electronic health records is complete and accurate. A small mistake during record keeping can translate into a big mistake in the emergency room. Accuracy and attention to detail are crucial when creating records that serve to inform life-saving health providers.
Health information technicians can fill a variety of roles in a healthcare organization in terms of the technology that they are managing and/or maintaining. They are encouraged to stay up-to-date with advances in technology and technology applications so that they can help improve organizational efficiency and overall quality of care.
Do I Need a Health Information Technology Degree?
An Associate degree in Health Information Technology can prepare students to enter into the expanding field of health information technology. Gaining an entry-level position in health information technology after completing a health information technology degree or diploma program is a step toward a more advanced career in HIT after continued education and the proper job experience has been acquired. An associate degree can be completed in 17 months on average.
Health Information Technology Careers
Health Information Technologists work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, physician practices, long-term care, home healthcare, insurance, managed care, health technology firms and pharmaceutical companies. Other potential job titles for those holding a Health Information Technology degree or diploma can include Document Imaging Technician, Clinical Documentation Specialist, Quality Analyst, Cancer Registrar or Coder.