Health information management (HIM) is an area of healthcare that combines information technology, data management, coding and ethics. HIM plays a vital, though often behind-the-scenes, role in healthcare. Working in health information management involves handling, tracking and storing patient health data. Careers in health information management can be an excellent choice for anyone interested in the healthcare industry but not wanting to work in direct patient care.

Careers in health information management involve using technology, such as healthcare recordkeeping software and electronic health records, to improve patient experience and support the safe operation of healthcare facilities. HIM professionals typically work in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, medical offices or from home. 

The key responsibilities in health information management include:

• Medical record management
• Using classification methods, such as coding, for procedures and diagnoses
• Ensuring compliance with HIPAA
• Using data analysis tools to find trends in public health data
• Improving operational efficiency of healthcare offices
• Implementing systems for safely managing paper and electronic health records

There are multiple roles within the health information management industry. Each role is related to providing accurate and reliable recordkeeping to keep medical offices running smoothly, although they may have different focuses. A bachelor's degree in health information management can teach you the skills to become a: 

Medical and Health Services Manager

Medical and health services managers, or healthcare administrators, oversee healthcare facilities or specific departments. They manage staff and ensure their department doesn’t go over budget. These managers are often responsible for compliance, policy changes and the implementation and training of staff on new record-keeping technologies.

Work environment: Hospitals, group medical practices, nursing homes, healthcare facilities

Career and Salary Outlook: 

• Median annual wage of $117,960 for medical and health services managers in May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).^{(See disclaimer 1)}
• Estimated 29% growth for medical and health services managers expected from 2023-2033, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Medical Records Specialist

Medical records specialists are responsible for maintaining patient files. They use coding to enter and classify information into computer systems and ensure the confidentiality of patient data. Insurance agencies work with medical records specialists to request records related to claims and reimbursement.

Work environment: Office environment

Career and Salary Outlook: 

• Median annual wage of $50,250 for medical records specialists in May 2024, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 3)}
• Estimated 9% growth for medical records specialists expected from 2023-2033, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Health Information Technologist

A health information technologist uses data analysis to understand clinical data and advises medical facilities on the best healthcare technology systems. They help healthcare facilities to implement healthcare technology and evaluate its use to streamline processes.

Work environment: Office environment

Career and Salary Outlook: 

• Median annual wage of $67,310 for health information technologists in May 2024, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 5)}
• Estimated 16% growth for health information technologists expected from 2023-2033, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Medical Registrar

A medical registrar creates and maintains databases of national health information to track diseases such as cancer or diabetes. They analyze data related to these conditions to determine the prevalence of diseases among different regions and age groups, as well as the survival and recovery rate.

Work environment: Office environment

Career and Salary Outlook: 

• Median annual wage of $67,310 for medical registrars in May 2024, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 5)}
• Estimated 16% growth for medical registrars expected from 2023-2033, according to the BLS.^{(See disclaimer 6)}

A career in health information management can be a suitable choice for people with great attention to detail and who enjoy working with data. The sensitive nature of patient health data requires HIM professionals to be diligent in everything they do, which can be a fun challenge for people who strive for perfection and precision. Many advantages exist for those who choose to work in health information management, such as remote work options and industry growth.

Remote Work Options

There are opportunities for remote work within health information management.^{(See disclaimer 7 )}Working remotely can be a great choice for many professionals, as they save commuting time and are able to work from the comfort of their home office, providing a greater work-life balance.

Job Outlook and Industry Growth

The health information management industry is growing, so right now is a great time to start a career in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for medical and health services managers has the sixth highest job growth rate of any occupation between 2023 to 2033, at 29% projected growth.^{(See disclaimer 2,8)} This creates an exciting opportunity for new professionals entering the field.

Make a Difference in Patient Care

Working in health information management can be a rewarding career and is a great way to make a difference in the health outcomes of patients. No matter what role you pursue, working in HIM means you will play an important part in ensuring patients’ personal information is secure while accessing care.

The education requirements for roles in health information management vary depending on the specific employer and position. Relevant majors for working in HIM include healthcare and business-related degrees. 

Degrees in health information management often cover topics such as:

• Learning medical terminology
• Managing and classifying clinical data
• Foundations of healthcare information systems
• Research methods in healthcare
• Understanding business analytics
• Ethical principles for patient data handling

Management roles may require additional education, such as a master’s degree combined with relevant work experience.^{(See disclaimer 9)} Some states may require a license to work in specific roles, such as a nursing home administrator. Be sure to check your state’s requirements for HIM licensure. In addition to a degree, earning additional certificates in healthcare competencies can be a great way to boost your knowledge and add a new credential to your resume.

If you are interested in careers in health information management, a degree from Grand Canyon University can teach you valuable skills to help you prepare to enter the healthcare industry with confidence. We offer a BS in Health Information Management that can provide a solid foundation in managing, protecting and analyzing patient data.