8.3 Health Information Technology and Management
Katie Baker
Health information technology (HIT) refers to administration of the software and hardware required to maintain key information about patients and medical practices. Individuals working in HIT have training in both computers and technology, with a specific focus on medical records and patient charting systems. HIT staff are responsible for ensuring that technology updates are installed on all clinic computers, that all computers and tablets are working properly, and that any hardware or software problems are addressed promptly, much like information technology (IT) employees in other organizations.
While privacy requirements and security are key to successful health information technology programs, they are not typically handled by HIT professionals. The processing of data used in a technological system falls under health information management (HIM). HIM refers to policies and procedures that protect patient data during its collection, storage, and release.
HIM professionals use technology to ensure that medical records are complete and accurate, which helps provide patients with the best possible care. By ensuring that providers have access to all necessary information, HIM professionals assist in making informed medical decisions. They also collaborate with providers and coders to ensure documentation and coding accuracy, which improves patient care and insurance reimbursement. Finally, HIM staff work with all clinical employees to ensure compliance with state and federal medical record laws relating to security, HIPAA, and record completion (Burkot, 2023).
A career in HIM or HIT may interest you if you would like to support healthcare without being involved in direct patient care. If you have a strong background in computers or are eager to further develop your skills in information technology or record-keeping, the jobs outlined in the next section could be an excellent opportunity for you.
Career Opportunities in Health Information Technology and Management
Health Information Technician
An entry-level position in the field of HIT and HIM, the health information technician is responsible for managing electronic medical records (MPH Staff, 2022). This role typically involves fulfilling records requests via mail, email, or fax, processing outgoing requests, and receiving external medical records to incorporate them into the patient’s medical chart
Health Information Specialist
A health information specialist supports a department or organization by scanning and filing medical reports, lab results, and imaging into patient charts (MPH Staff, 2022). In addition, they are responsible for verifying and improving the accuracy of key identifying information in the charts. Proficiency with document imaging software is essential for this role.
Medical Chronologist
A medical chronologist reviews medical charts to establish a timeline of events for legal cases, including malpractice suits and personal injury cases (MPH Staff, 2022). They create reports to summarize treatments and costs for medical professionals.
Medical Records Clerk
A medical records clerk is an entry-level position in the health information field. They are responsible for pulling and filing paper charts when patients arrive for a visit (MPH Staff, 2022). As medical records increasingly transition to electronic formats, clerks must adapt by becoming proficient with electronic systems and communications. Obtaining an associate degree in a related field can enhance job prospects and career advancement in this role.
Compliance Officer
A compliance officer in healthcare ensures that providers and organizations follow state and federal regulations concerning patient care, privacy, and the security of medical records. This includes educating new staff and providers on policies and procedures that are mandated by law. Compliance officers typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or criminal justice.
Clinical Informatics Coordinator
A clinical informatics coordinator (CIC) is typically a registered nurse who specializes in purchasing and implementing medical software. Often serving as a liaison between the HIT department and clinical staff, the clinical informatics coordinator evaluates various software vendor options and makes recommendations for purchases. In addition to an RN certification, many CICs also have bachelor’s degrees in their areas of specialty. There are also graduate certification programs available in specialized areas of clinical informatics.
Systems Analyst
A HIM systems analyst regularly evaluates an organization’s performance by analyzing medical records, patient surveys, and financial reports. They provide upper-level management with recommendations on ways to improve efficiency, enhance performance, and reduce costs. They may also be tasked with developing patient dashboards. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in health information, systems analysts may also be required to maintain certifications in information systems.
Data Architect
A data architect is responsible for developing and maintaining the structure of databases used in healthcare. These professionals may work for software vendors to create database systems for healthcare providers or work within a medical facility to create customized databases tailored to the organization’s needs. Both bachelor’s and advanced degrees are available in this field, with higher levels of education typically leading to higher starting salaries (USF Health, 2022).
EHR Implementation Specialist
An electronic health records (EHR) implementation specialist works for an EHR vendor to support client organizations in adopting electronic health records systems and provides ongoing support throughout the duration of the contract. No formal education is required for this position, but many companies seek employees who have an associate or bachelor’s degree in a medically-related or technical field, due to the specialized nature of the role.
Additionally, many other roles in this field combine elements from the examples above, and organizations may use varying job titles for similar positions. For more detailed information, consider reviewing job descriptions on employment websites or exploring career opportunities through community college programs related to this field.
The digital systems relating to the storage, security, and transferring of patient information including medical records.
An individual who works within the administration of a healthcare facility.