Health Information Manager Job Description – Salary, Education and Career Guide for becoming a Health Information Manager

Health information managers enjoy careers combining computing, health and management. With many institutions including hospitals in demand of health information managers, the field is a promising. Health information manager positions involve analysis, collection and distribution of healthcare information.

Job Description

Health information managers are responsible for designing and managing information systems in:
  • clinics
  • educational facilities
  • government agencies
  • hospices
  • hospitals
  • medical centers
  • nursing homes
  • research centers
  • other health care organizations.
 
You may be wondering, "What do health information managers do?" Health Information Managers focus on developing and administering healthcare data collection and reporting systems. The systems they design save data in a secure way, allowing for complete patient privacy, confidentiality and security.
 
A variety of well-paid positions are available under the heading of health information manager including:
  • clinical coding specialist
  • clinical data specialist
  • information security officer
  • integrated health information systems director
  • patient information coordinator
  • research analyst.
 
Health information manager positions may involve interacting with health care professionals, as well as computer technicians, medical experts, the general public, and various administrators. Working conditions are generally comfortable, with excellent benefits.

Salary Guide

A health information manager salary averages $57,370. Earnings range from less than $45,000 to more than $80,000 per year annually, based on:
  • employer or work setting
  • experience
  • geographic area
  • specialization and position.
 
The highest earnings for health information managers are in the areas of consulting services, integrated healthcare delivery systems, and non-provider settings. Those with jobs in home health, hospice care and ambulatory surgery centers earn the least.
 
Health information managers enjoy job security, as the field is expected to grow nearly fifty percent by 2014.

Education and Training

Depending on the specific position, requirements for a health information manager range from an associate degree to a master’s degree from an accredited college or university. Over 200 universities and colleges currently offer degrees in health information management.
 
For those who already have a college degree in a different area, a second degree or a postgraduate certificate is an option.
 
Coursework for health information managers involves the study of health informatics. Students learn about a variety of related topics including:
  • clinical medicine
  • coding and classifications systems
  • computer-based patient records
  • legalities
  • quality and human resource management
  • regulatory guidelines.
 
Graduating from a qualified educational institution will prepare you to take the national certification examination. After becoming certified, you will be credentialed as a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA).

Prior Work Experience

Previous experience in computers, health or management is helpful when looking for employment as a health information manager. In addition, prior experience may bring you a higher salary.
 
Here are some examples of relevant previous work experience:
  • computer technician
  • entry level health information technician position
  • internship as a health information manager
  • management position in a health-related environment.
 

Career Advancement

Advancement opportunities for health information mangers include:
  • increased opportunity for variety, such as consulting different clients
  • regular salary increases
  • senior positions such as supervisor of other health information managers in a large medical facility.
 

Related Associations & Groups

To learn more about health information manager careers, you may wish to contact:
  • American College of Healthcare Executives
  • American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
  • State organizations for health information managers.
 
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