What is Health Information Technology?

Health information technology (HIT) refers to the application of information technology (IT) in the healthcare industry. HIT professionals are responsible for managing, storing, and securing patient data, ensuring the accuracy and confidentiality of medical records. They play a crucial role in the efficient and effective delivery of healthcare services.

Training Requirements

To become a health information technician, you typically need to complete an associate's degree program in health information technology or a related field. These programs usually take two years to complete and cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, coding and classification systems, healthcare law and ethics, and healthcare information systems.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Health Information Technician in Buffalo?

In Buffalo, there are several educational institutions that offer accelerated health information technology programs. For example, Erie Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Technology that can be completed in as little as 18 months. This program covers the core competencies required for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification exam.

Health Information Technology Classes in Buffalo

Here are some examples of health information technology classes available in Buffalo:

Erie Community College

• Program: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Technology
• Length: 18 months
• Cost: Approximately $5,000 per year for in-state tuition and fees
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, minimum GPA of 2.0
• Overview: The AAS program at Erie Community College provides a comprehensive education in health information management, including courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, healthcare data and content, and healthcare information systems. Graduates are prepared to sit for the RHIT certification exam.

University at Buffalo

• Program: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Informatics
• Length: 4 years
• Cost: Approximately $12,000 per year for in-state tuition and fees
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, minimum GPA of 3.0
• Overview: The BS in Health Informatics program at the University at Buffalo combines coursework in information technology, healthcare, and data management. Students learn to design, develop, and implement healthcare information systems, as well as analyze and interpret healthcare data. Graduates are prepared for careers as health information technicians, data analysts, and health IT specialists.

Bryant & Stratton College

• Program: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Technology
• Length: 2 years
• Cost: Approximately $15,000 per year for tuition and fees
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED, minimum GPA of 2.0
• Overview: The AAS program at Bryant & Stratton College covers topics such as medical coding, healthcare reimbursement, healthcare law and ethics, and healthcare information systems. Students gain hands-on experience through internships and are prepared to sit for the RHIT certification exam.

Exploring a Career in Health Information Technology Outside Buffalo

If you've been reading this article and long to become a Health Information Technician, but you live in a different state, don't lose hope – achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a Health Information Technician in Charlotte, Colorado Springs, Louisville/Jefferson County, Raleigh, or Springfield. If none of these locations work for you, Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing Health Information Technology classes through a convenient search by zip code. With determination and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in technical and communications, no matter where you live.

Online and Free Options in Buffalo

While there are no fully online health information technology programs offered in Buffalo, some local institutions, such as Erie Community College and the University at Buffalo, do offer hybrid or blended learning options that combine online and in-person instruction. These programs can be a good choice for students who need more flexibility in their schedules.

Additionally, there are no free health information technology classes available in Buffalo. However, some community colleges and workforce development centers may offer affordable training programs or scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition and fees.

Certification Process

To become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), individuals must pass the RHIT certification exam administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). The exam covers a wide range of topics, including health data management, health statistics and analytics, health information compliance and privacy, and healthcare information systems.

Job Environment in Buffalo

Buffalo's healthcare industry is thriving, making it an excellent location for health information technicians. Some of the largest employers of health information technicians in the Buffalo area include:

• Kaleida Health: A nonprofit healthcare system that operates several hospitals and medical centers in the Buffalo region.
• Catholic Health: A network of hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers in Western New York.
• Erie County Medical Center: A public hospital and Level 1 trauma center serving the Buffalo metropolitan area.
• Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center: A National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center.

These and other healthcare organizations in Buffalo offer a variety of job opportunities for health information technicians, from managing medical records to analyzing healthcare data and implementing new technology solutions.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo's growing healthcare industry and diverse range of employers make it an excellent location for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a health information technician. With various health information technology classes available in the city, aspiring professionals can gain the necessary skills and certifications to land good health information technology jobs and earn a competitive health information technology salary. Whether you're looking to start your career or advance your skills, Buffalo's health information technology education and employment opportunities are worth exploring.

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