The Health Information Management field is constantly evolving. Industry changes are vast and vary from the implementation of electronic health records to an increased focus on protected health information. Yet, they share a common theme — information technology is now at the forefront of the HIM field.
Hospital administrators can no longer delay jumping on the health information technology bandwagon. Whether discussing security risks, EHRs, or new HIPAA policies, the topic of health information technology cannot be avoided.
With ARRA’s emphasis on the use of electronic health records, the healthcare industry is also continuing to become more data-driven. The increased importance of accurate, accessible and secure healthcare data furthers the importance of information technology for HIM professionals. Obtaining and making effective use of this highly valued stored information requires skills in data management, data analytics and data reporting. After all, what good is data if it cannot be used to improve processes or answer questions? These three data components are critical to the life-saving and money-saving studies done in hospitals and physician offices across the country. Without the data, obtained through expert use of technology, it proves difficult to improve patient care or the organization’s bottom line.
New health information technology is not only transforming the work of HIM professionals, but also impacting patients. The implementation of electronic health records has made patients’ access to personal health information simpler than ever before. Patients who have been waiting years for easier access to their health records understand the many benefits that come with EHRs; and HIM professionals understand both the benefits and privacy and security risks of this new technology.
These exciting changes in the HIM field also mean that employers are looking for new skill sets. Earning a new credential is a strategic career move towards becoming a leader in your organization and the ever-advancing HIM field. AHIMA’s prestigious Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential is an excellent way to grow as an HIM professional and demonstrate commitment to employers. The CHDA validates the mastery of data management, analysis and reporting. CHDA-credentialed professionals cement their role in their organization by being the resident expert in data-related matters.
The increased focus on privacy and security also means that hospitals require credentialed professionals with this expertise. Earning AHIMA’s esteemed Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) credential demonstrates a choice to focus and advance by specializing in the privacy and security dimensions of HIM. This shows not only dedication to an employer, but also to patient care. The CHPS credential denotes competence in designing, implementing, and administering comprehensive privacy and security protection programs which is at the core of many organizational goals, making a CHPS credentialed professional indispensable.
The field of health information management will continue to develop and change. Clearly, there is no end in sight. There will always be new technology and new legislation requiring its use. HIM professionals must show a commitment to lifelong learning by becoming leaders, not just followers. Earning an information technology related credential guarantees not being left behind.
For more information on AHIMA’s CHDA or CHPS credentials, please visit www.ahima.org/certification.
Hospital administrators can no longer delay jumping on the health information technology bandwagon. Whether discussing security risks, EHRs, or new HIPAA policies, the topic of health information technology cannot be avoided.
With ARRA’s emphasis on the use of electronic health records, the healthcare industry is also continuing to become more data-driven. The increased importance of accurate, accessible and secure healthcare data furthers the importance of information technology for HIM professionals. Obtaining and making effective use of this highly valued stored information requires skills in data management, data analytics and data reporting. After all, what good is data if it cannot be used to improve processes or answer questions? These three data components are critical to the life-saving and money-saving studies done in hospitals and physician offices across the country. Without the data, obtained through expert use of technology, it proves difficult to improve patient care or the organization’s bottom line.
New health information technology is not only transforming the work of HIM professionals, but also impacting patients. The implementation of electronic health records has made patients’ access to personal health information simpler than ever before. Patients who have been waiting years for easier access to their health records understand the many benefits that come with EHRs; and HIM professionals understand both the benefits and privacy and security risks of this new technology.
These exciting changes in the HIM field also mean that employers are looking for new skill sets. Earning a new credential is a strategic career move towards becoming a leader in your organization and the ever-advancing HIM field. AHIMA’s prestigious Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential is an excellent way to grow as an HIM professional and demonstrate commitment to employers. The CHDA validates the mastery of data management, analysis and reporting. CHDA-credentialed professionals cement their role in their organization by being the resident expert in data-related matters.
The increased focus on privacy and security also means that hospitals require credentialed professionals with this expertise. Earning AHIMA’s esteemed Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) credential demonstrates a choice to focus and advance by specializing in the privacy and security dimensions of HIM. This shows not only dedication to an employer, but also to patient care. The CHPS credential denotes competence in designing, implementing, and administering comprehensive privacy and security protection programs which is at the core of many organizational goals, making a CHPS credentialed professional indispensable.
The field of health information management will continue to develop and change. Clearly, there is no end in sight. There will always be new technology and new legislation requiring its use. HIM professionals must show a commitment to lifelong learning by becoming leaders, not just followers. Earning an information technology related credential guarantees not being left behind.
For more information on AHIMA’s CHDA or CHPS credentials, please visit www.ahima.org/certification.