Health Information Manager Careers

Health Information Manager Careers

What is a Health Information Manager (HIM)?

Health care has become increasingly technology based and more complicated. A medical record contains files of patient assessments, recorded notes, collected data, and clinical observations, and most often patient charts are maintained electronically. All patient information requires protection, and Health Information Management is the profession of acquiring, analyzing, and protecting both digital and traditional medical data. Health Information Managers are professionals with knowledge and expertise in the application of technology. They manage patient information to ensure that patient records are current, accurate, and privacy protected. Health Information Managers also design and manage medical data storage and collection to meet legal, ethical, and medical standards of excellence.

 

What are the responsibilities of a Health Information Manager?

Health Information Manager roles can be diverse and broad, depending on the healthcare environment, but their primary duty is the management and security of patient records. The position requires advanced computer skills and knowledge of federal mandates to keep up to date with evolving concerns regarding the electronic storage of protected materials. Health Information Managers work with quality management, conduct research, and maintain the security of databases. Health Information Managers work in large and small health care facilities, private practice offices, and anywhere where health records are kept. Health Information Managers are essential to the daily operation of all health care institutions and are a critical part of patient care. Duties of Health Information Managers are as follows:

  • Collect and analyze data
  • Maintain accuracy of patient charts
  • Ensure privacy of patient records
  • Manage and maintain databases
  • Generate reports
  • Investigate reports
  • Assist with fiscal operations, including budget planning and financial statements preparation
  • Comply with state and federal regulations
  • Supervise the consent and release of information forms
  • Manage the medical records department
  • Recruit, train, and direct staff development

 

 Where does a Health Information Manager work?

Health Information Managers are employed wherever there is a need for management of patient records. They perform a critical job in patient care. They care for the medical information of the patient and make certain that it’s private, accurate, and current. Health Information Managers work for large institutions and private physician practices as well as working in bridge roles to connect clinical and administrative functions.

 

What other career options are there for Health Information Managers?

There are many career options for Health Information Managers Jobs as the position is a cornerstone of the healthcare industry. Career opportunities are dependent on the type of degree the candidate earned and if the candidate is certified. Health Information Managers work everywhere in the industry where medical information management is required:

  • Hospitals
  • Insurance companies
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Consulting and law firms
  • Long-term care facilities
  • Pharmaceutical companies

 

What degree is required to become a Health Information Manager? What do they study?

Most Health Information Management positions require a bachelor’s or master’s degree for employment, but there are some entry-level positions available to associate’s-prepared candidates. Certification is usually voluntary but some employers require it, and it always increases the likelihood of more exciting and better-paying jobs.

Associate’s-prepared Health Information Managers work in the following areas:

  • Patient Information Coordinator
  • Health Data Analyst
  • Physician Practice Manager
  • Clinical Coder

Most Health Information Manager opportunities begin at the baccalaureate-prepared level:

  • Information Security Officer
  • Health Information Management Department
  • Consultant
  • Health Information Management Systems Manager

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers certification for bachelor’s and master’s-prepared candidates as an option. Certification is currently voluntary, but more employers require certification. Those who pass the examination and requirements can earn the title of Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA).

 

How much money does a Health Information Manager earn?

According to PayScale, salary ranges for HIMs are from $35,000 to a little over $80,000 per year with a median salary range of $54,000, depending on place of employment and educational level.