what does a health information manager do?

So What Exactly Does a Health Information Manager Do?

Do you love the idea of pursuing a future that pairs computing and management with healthcare? If so, you could be an ideal candidate for a degree as a Health Information Manager (HIM). Sometimes also referred to as Health Information Technicians, they are professionals at processing, analyzing, and reporting the data that is most vital to the healthcare industry. This demands a blend of both business and technological expertise as well as a working knowledge of health information management and law. Ultimately, this is a challenging and ever-evolving track that would prove to be very satisfying to motivated and tech-savvy individuals. So then, what might you expect from a future as a Health Information Manager?

Responsibilities of a Health Information Manager

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HIMs are responsible to many different individuals and departments, carrying out a wide range of essential tasks. Some of the most important duties include:  

  • Information Systems Design and Management - Each day, medical professionals must have the ability to access patient files and update information pertaining to the individual's health and treatment. In order for this process to be as smooth and seamless as possible, HIMs are responsible for setting up and maintaining an electronic database that can warehouse confidential patient records in such a way that they can easily be accessed and altered by authorized personnel while also maintaining a high level of security. The system must be monitored for efficiency and accuracy on daily basis. 
  • Record Generation and Reporting -  Private patient data may need to be collected, analyzed, and assembled to generate records and reports about individuals who are being treated by doctors and other clinicians. Their close involvement with the computing system and patient information makes HIMs the perfect candidates for these duties. 
  • Record-Keeping Quality Control - With so much information being generated, accessed, and updated each day, it's important that HIMs have the ability to maintain security and quality standards within the electronic records system. This will ensure that data is accurate and current at all times. 
  • Medical Coding - HIMs are often involved in the medical coding, billing, and reimbursement processes. This might mean requesting reimbursements from insurers on behalf of a private medical practice or hospital, or even working for an insurance agency itself. 
  • Releases of Information - When a patient, medical professional, insurance company, or other third part requests confidential patient information, HIMs are often in charge of processing the release of information (ROI) requests and responding to each appropriately. This involves a detailed understanding of HIPAA and other confidentiality regulations. Request must be compared against HIPAA authorization forms and secure transmissions processes must be followed.
  • Security/Privacy Policy/HIPAA Implementation - The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates the ways in which protected health information (PHI) can be generated, used, viewed, and transmitted. Any qualified HIM should be well-versed in these regulations and able to enforce these security policies within the organization so as to avoid fines and other legal repercussions. 

Educational Requirements for a Health Information Manager

HIMs must take steps to obtain the necessary credentials to earn a degree in health information management while also being willing to engage in a program of lifelong learning. Here's a look at what you should plan for:

  • AAS in Health Science - The most eligible and successful HIMs begin their journey by obtaining an Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Science. Ideally, this program should train you on clinical work flows, information systems and policies, the ins and outs of health data management, how to create and maintain electronic health records (EHRs), how to adhere to health regulations and laws, basic administrative duties, etc.
  • Ongoing Education - As technology evolves, so does the role of an HIM. You will need to stay current with the latest computing advances as well as any updates to HIPAA and other health privacy laws. This may demand ongoing training and certifications, attending seminars, and earning continuing education credits. 

Be a Health Information Manager!

Are you interested in combining your tech-savvy with your desire to help others? Contact ECPI today to learn more about earning your Associate of Applied Science in Health Science with a concentration in Health Information Management. Enrolling in our year-round program could allow you to obtain your degree in as little as 1.5 years! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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