Your Guide to the Best Health Information Technician Training in Florida
Looking for health information technician training in Florida? Start here. Accredited programs, hands-on training, and key steps to becoming certified—all you need to know is within this article. Perfect for prospective students at any stage, we’ll guide you through the essential elements of HIT education, from choosing the right institution to funding your journey.
- Florida offers diverse CAHIIM-accredited HIT programs that prepare students for the RHIT exam and careers in health informatics and information management.
- HIT programs in Florida generally require 69-70 credit hours, including general education and specialized HIT courses, coupled with practical training through real-world healthcare experiences.
- HIT education provides a plethora of skills ranging from understanding electronic health records to analytical thinking, and students can choose between online, on-campus, or hybrid learning options.
Exploring Health Information Technology Programs in Florida
The Sunshine State is home to diverse HIT programs that aim to empower a new generation of health information professionals. Packed with comprehensive coursework and practical internships, these programs are designed to deliver quality health information management education and serve as a launchpad for an exciting career in health informatics.
Accredited Institutions Offering HIT Training
In Florida, leading institutions with recognized college accreditation include:
Seminole State College
- Program Offerings:
- Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree, Health Information Technology: Prepares students for careers in health information technology and management.
- College Credit Certificate, Medical Information Coder/Biller: Focuses on medical coding and billing.
- Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree with prerequisite coursework for a major in Health Informatics and Health Information Technology: Provides foundational courses for further study in health informatics and HIT.
- Program Benefits:
- Updated Curriculum: Aligns with current job market demands and regulatory requirements.
- Experienced Faculty: Credentialed by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
- Real-world Experience: Through required practicum experiences.
- Exposure to EHR Technology: Training in health information management technology and software.
- Learning Formats:
- Online Classes: Provide flexibility and convenience, reducing travel expenses.
- On-campus Classes: General education courses offered in a traditional classroom setting for face-to-face interaction.
- Accreditations:
- College Accreditation: Regionally accredited public institution.
- Program Accreditations:
- A.S. degree in Health Information Technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
- Certificate in Medical Information Coder/Biller approved by the AHIMA Foundation’s Professional Certificate Approval Program.
Miami Dade College
- Program Overview:
- Designed to prepare graduates with entry-level job skills in health information technology.
- Engages students in healthcare, business, and technology.
- Health information technology professionals are skilled in health data collection and analysis, medical language interpretation, and processing health information for research and data collection.
- Graduates have the skills to work in over 76 different career options and may sit for five different credentials.
- Program Details:
- Two-year course of study requiring 70 credits for an Associate in Science degree.
- Includes general education courses alongside discipline-specific courses.
- Recommended to complete general education courses prior to progressing to discipline courses.
- Emphasizes the management of computerized health information.
- Demanding program; students are advised to limit work hours to enhance success.
- Course Work Includes:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Legal Aspects of Health Care
- Medical Terminology
- Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
- ICD Coding Systems
- Career Prospects:
- Health Information Technician
- Medical Coder
- Medical Biller
- Documentation Specialist
- Accreditation:
- Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) through 2029.
Program Structure and Duration
The HIT programs in Florida typically require 69 to 70 credit hours for completion. The structure includes 25 credit hours of general education courses in various subjects, complemented by specialized HIT coursework on vital topics. From medical coding to the legal aspects of health information, these programs offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need.
Practical Training Components
Practical training elements form an integral part of HIT programs, significantly moulding future health information professionals. These real-world experiences at healthcare sites, supervised by healthcare providers, are invaluable, enabling students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting and gain industry-relevant experience in handling patient health information.
The Path to Becoming a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
Becoming an RHIT is a significant milestone in the journey of HIT professionals. On completion of their HIT education, passing the national certification exam becomes a necessity. This certification not only validates their knowledge and skills but also opens doors to numerous opportunities in the healthcare industry.
Key Skills Developed Through HIT Training
HIT training is much more than just studying textbooks and attending lectures. It’s aimed at fostering a wide array of skills that will be beneficial throughout one’s professional journey. Some of the skills that HIT training helps develop include:
- Understanding electronic health records and medical records
- Familiarity with medical terminology
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving abilities
HIT training moulds professionals who are ready to tackle real-world challenges.
Online and On-Campus Options for HIT Education
With the digital revolution transforming education, Florida’s HIT programs are no exception. They offer a range of flexible learning options to cater to students with different needs and commitments.
Fully Online Degree Programs
Fully online HIT associate degree programs like the one offered by Valencia College provide the flexibility you need to balance studies with your personal and professional commitments.
Hybrid Learning Opportunities
Hybrid programs provide a balanced mix of online courses and on-campus activities, ideal for those who prefer a blend of flexibility and hands-on learning.
These blend the convenience of online learning with the rich experience of on-campus interactions.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for HIT Students
Investment in education is a substantial step, and the availability of financial assistance can ease the burden. HIT students have access to various financial aid options, including:
- Scholarships
- Loans
- Grants
- Work-study opportunities
Though applying for these may require some focused time, the potential benefits for students seeking financial support for their education are considerable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are internships required for Health Information Technicians in Florida, and how are they arranged?
Yes, many HIT programs in Florida require internships or clinical practice as part of their curriculum. These internships are typically arranged by the educational institution in partnership with local healthcare facilities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience with medical coding, EHR systems, and data management before entering the workforce.
What are the continuing education requirements for maintaining HIT certifications in Florida?
To maintain certifications like RHIT, HIT professionals in Florida must complete continuing education units (CEUs) as required by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). CEUs can be earned through workshops, webinars, and professional development programs offered by FHIMA or other recognized institutions.