How to Become a Health Information Technician in New York
If you're looking for a career that combines healthcare, technology, and data, becoming a Health Information Technician (HIT) in New York may be the right path. This guide covers everything you need to know: what HITs do, how to get certified, where to train, salary expectations, and job opportunities.
1. Build a Strong Resume
Include:
- Your degree and RHIT certification
- Practical experience (internships, practicums, volunteer work)
- Skills like EHR proficiency, coding, data entry, and HIPAA compliance
- Tools like Epic, Cerner, 3M Encoder, and Microsoft Excel
2. Gain Hands-On Experience
Many programs include internships or practicum hours in hospitals or outpatient clinics.
If you’re just starting, look for roles such as:
- Medical records clerk
- Entry-level coder or transcriptionist
- EHR data entry specialist
3. Use Trusted Job Platforms
Search for jobs on:
- My Next Move
- Hospital websites (such as Montefiore or Northwell Health)
- AHIMA job board or Dreambound listings
4. Network with Professionals
Join AHIMA or NYHIMA (New York Health Information Management Association) to:
- Attend industry events
- Connect with local hiring managers
- Stay informed on new tools and job openings
5. Prepare for Interviews
Practice explaining:
- Your approach to protecting patient data
- Coding methodologies you’re trained in
- How you stay up to date on changing regulations
- How you handle discrepancies in medical records
Career Paths After Becoming a HIT
Your certification opens doors to a variety of roles in health data management, such as:
- Medical Coder – Assigns billing codes to diagnoses and procedures
- Health Information Manager – Oversees record systems, compliance, and analytics
- EHR Specialist – Maintains and optimizes electronic record systems
- Health Data Analyst – Interprets trends and outcomes for clinical teams
- Privacy and Security Officer – Manages HIPAA compliance and system protections
With more experience or a bachelor’s degree, you can move into leadership roles or specialize in informatics, compliance, or public health.
How Much Do Health Information Technicians Make in New York?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Health Information Technicians and Medical Registrars in New York is $83,540 per year (May 2024).
- Top 10 percent: Over $127,940
- Entry-level: Around $40,620
Wages vary based on region, experience, and specialization. Earning your RHIT or gaining skills in data analytics can help you move up faster.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Health Information Technician in New York offers a stable, flexible, and in-demand career path. Whether you're transitioning into healthcare or starting fresh, completing a CAHIIM-accredited program and earning your RHIT certification is the fastest way to get hired.
Dreambound makes it easy to compare HIT training programs that lead directly to certification and employment.
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Fel is a student support representative who guides enrollees to the right program and answers their queries. She's committed to helping students and takes pride in her work. In her free time, she enjoys sightseeing and hanging out with loved ones.
