How to Become a Health Information Technician in California
What is a Health Information Technician?
Health Information Technicians are skilled professionals who work with electronic health records (EHRs) and other health information management systems. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Collecting, analyzing, and organizing patient health information
- Ensuring the accuracy and completeness of medical records
- Coding diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement and research purposes
- Protecting the privacy and security of patient information
- Collaborating with healthcare professionals to improve data quality and patient care
How do I get a job as a Health Information Technician?
After obtaining your Health Information Technician certification, the next step is to find a job in the field. There are several avenues you can explore to find job opportunities as a Health Information Technician.
One option is to search for job openings on job boards and websites that specialize in healthcare and health information management. Some popular job boards to consider include Indeed, LinkedIn, and AHIMA's Career Assist. These websites often have a wide range of job postings for Health Information Technicians.
Networking is another valuable tool in finding job opportunities. Attend professional conferences, join local and national health information management associations, and reach out to professionals in the field. Building relationships and connections can often lead to job leads and referrals.
Additionally, consider reaching out to local healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and physician offices, to inquire about potential job openings. Many healthcare organizations have dedicated health information management departments that employ Health Information Technicians.
When applying for jobs, it is important to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Emphasize your certification as a Registered Health Information Technician and any additional certifications or specialized training you may have.
During the interview process, be prepared to discuss your knowledge of health information management principles, your experience with electronic health records and medical coding, and your ability to maintain patient confidentiality and privacy.
Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Health Information Technician
Becoming a Health Information Technician opens up various career paths and opportunities within the healthcare industry. Some of the common career paths include:
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Health Information Management Supervisor/Manager: With experience and additional education, Health Information Technicians can progress to supervisory or managerial roles. In these positions, you would be responsible for overseeing the health information management department and ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices.
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Clinical Data Analyst: Health Information Technicians can transition into roles as clinical data analysts, where they analyze and interpret healthcare data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. This role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Medical Coding Specialist: Medical coding is a specialized skill within health information management. Health Information Technicians can pursue additional training and certifications to become medical coding specialists. In this role, you would assign codes to medical diagnoses and procedures for reimbursement and data analysis purposes.
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Health Information Systems Trainer: Some Health Information Technicians may choose to focus on training and education. In this role, you would be responsible for training healthcare professionals and staff on the use of electronic health record systems and other health information management tools.
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Compliance Officer: Health Information Technicians with a strong understanding of healthcare regulations and privacy laws may choose to pursue a career as a compliance officer. In this role, you would ensure that healthcare organizations are adhering to legal and ethical standards in the management and protection of health information.
These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities available to Health Information Technicians. The field of health information management is constantly evolving, and there are opportunities for advancement and specialization.
How Much does a Health Information Technician Make?
The average salary range for health information technologists can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $44,090 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,860, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $71,150.
It's important to note that entry-level health information technologists may start at the lower end of the salary range and gradually increase their earnings as they gain experience and specialize in specific areas of the field.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a certified Health Information Technician can open up a range of career opportunities in the healthcare industry. By completing an accredited training program and passing the certification exam, you will demonstrate your expertise in health information management and increase your marketability to employers.
In California, Santa Barbara City College offers an accredited Health Information Technology Program that can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a Health Information Technician.
Once certified, you can search for job opportunities on job boards, network with professionals in the field, and reach out to local healthcare facilities. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your certification and relevant skills and experiences.
As you gain experience and additional education, you can explore various career paths and opportunities within health information management, such as becoming a supervisor/manager, a clinical data analyst, a medical coding specialist, a health information systems trainer, or a compliance officer.
The field of health information management is constantly evolving, and there is a growing demand for skilled Health Information Technicians. By obtaining your certification and staying up-to-date with industry trends and regulations, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in this field.
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Blessed Joy Amarga is part of the Growth and Sales teams at Dreambound. She helps bring in new leads, increasing the number of people at the top of the sales funnel, and supporting the team in creating graphics to boost social media engagement. Blessed is also a Licensed Architect. Outside work, she enjoys traveling and exploring new places for her vlog.
