How to Get Started on Your HIM Career

Education

You need to complete either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in HIM from an accredited institution. A listing of the numerous accredited HIM programs across the country can be obtained from the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the national association of HIM professionals, at www.ahima.org/careers/ or by calling 312-233-1100.

If you’ve already earned a college degree and possess the prerequisites, you can earn a postgraduate certificate or second degree in HIM. The accredited HIM program in your area can provide more details.

High school students considering a HIM career can begin a foundation with the following courses: business, computer science, English, math, biology and chemistry.

Financial aid is available to qualified students through the AHIMA Foundation of Research and Education, which offers both loans and scholarships. For more information, contact www.ahima.org/careers/scholarships.html or call the AHIMA scholarship hotline at 312-233-1128.  For information on federally sponsored programs call Federal Student Financial Aid Information Center at 800-433-3243.

Certification

After completing your formal education, the next step is to successfully complete an AHIMA certification exam. A credential validates your competence as a HIM professional to employers and the public.  There are two key credentials for professionals in the HIM field:

Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA)

This credential requires a bachelor’s degree and successful performance on the RHIA certification exam.

Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)

A RHIT credential requires an associate’s degree and successful performance on the RHIT certification exam.