Top Health Information Technician Training in Nevada
If you’re aiming to become a health information technician in Nevada, the key is finding an accredited “health information technician training in Nevada” program that aligns with professional standards. This article zeroes in on distinct training programs in Nevada, addressing program lengths, costs, and accreditation details. Learn what to expect from Nevada’s specialized programs, the importance of internships, and how to prepare for the RHIT exam to secure a future in health information technology.
Top Health Information Technology Programs in Nevada
Aspiring health information technicians in Nevada should select a health information technology program accredited by a reputable health informatics and information management accreditor. This ensures that the education they receive aligns with industry standards, equipping them with the necessary skills to excel in the healthcare field.
Among the top health information technology programs in Nevada are:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, offers a foundational course, HIT 180 – Health Information Management, that covers essential IT skills relevant to healthcare, such as computers, software, servers, and networking.
- Great Basin College, offers an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology, preparing students for roles in health data management, information systems, and clinical workflow.
- College of Southern Nevada
These programs provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of health information technology, making it an ideal choice for those looking to study health information technology.
Apart from the degree programs, these institutions also offer specialized certificates in:
- Medical Coding
- Medical Office Practices
- Medical Transcription
- Patient Registration
Before enrolling, it’s important to verify the program’s accreditation status to ensure the quality of education.
These programs, offering a broad array of health information technology study options, meet the varying needs of students while preparing them for a successful career as health information technicians.
College of Southern Nevada (CSN)
The College of Southern Nevada (CSN), located in the heart of Las Vegas, offers an accredited Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Health Information Technology. The CSN’s Health Information Technology program:
- Is recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)
- Aligns with industry standards
- Provides students with a solid foundation in the field
The program includes specializations such as Medical Coding and Healthcare Documentation Specialist, catering to the specific needs of the healthcare industry. Entry into the program is limited, requiring candidates to attend an orientation, meet with a program advisor, and complete a limited entry workshop, ensuring a focused and dedicated group of students.
Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC)
The HIT course at TMCC provides foundational skills in managing health information, essential for those aiming to work in healthcare information management, although it may not be applicable towards a bachelor’s degree within NSHE.
Course Offerings
- HIT 180 – Health Information Management
- Units: 3
- Overview: This course covers skills necessary for managing the collection, storage, and safety of patient information within the healthcare industry. Students learn about information technology, including computers, software, servers, and networking.
- Transferability: May not transfer towards a Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) bachelor’s degree.
- Term Offered: Spring and Fall
Additional Information
- Course Search: TMCC catalog allows searching for various courses and offers a comprehensive list of degrees and certificates.
- Admissions: Information on enrollment, registration, tuition, fees, and financial aid is available in the catalog.
- Accreditation and Contact: TMCC is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA) institution.
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM), the program equips graduates with the credentials to take the RHIT exam. Students gain practical skills through simulations using the AHIMA Virtual Lab, practice coding patient cases, and a 40-hour internship, offering an enriching hands-on experience in the health information technology field.
Preparing for the RHIT Exam
After completing an accredited Health Information Technology program, graduates are eligible to take the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential exam. This exam serves as a benchmark to assess the knowledge and skills of aspiring health information technicians, ensuring that they are ready to make a significant contribution to the healthcare industry.
Exam Overview
The RHIT exam is a comprehensive assessment consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions, including 20 pretest questions that are not scored. Candidates are given 3.5 hours to complete the exam, ensuring that they have adequate time to demonstrate their proficiency.
The exam uses a scaled scoring system with a range from 100 to 400, with a score of 300 required to pass.
Study Resources
E-learning resources are instrumental when preparing for the RHIT exam. The effectiveness of e-learning in acquiring clinical competencies is supported by:
- Instructional design models
- Learner-centered education principles
- Quality assurance frameworks
- Pedagogical approaches
Customized e-learning interventions cater to the individual characteristics and diverse needs of learners in healthcare settings, enhancing the learning experience.
E-learning programs are more effective when they are designed with a success orientation and are regularly monitored to ensure they achieve desired outcomes. With the right resources, aspiring health information technicians can gain a robust understanding of the material through a well-designed hit program, boosting their confidence and chances to succeed in the RHIT exam.
Gaining Real-World Experience in Health Information Technology
In the health information technology field, theoretical knowledge must be complemented by real-world experience. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge to practice, enhancing their understanding of the complexities of the healthcare environment.
Internships are a crucial component of HIT programs, providing direct experiences in healthcare settings. Similarly, clinical rotations offer HIT students the opportunity to interact with professionals and encounter real-world challenges, enriching their educational journey.
Internships
Internships play a significant role in providing students with the practical experience necessary for employment post-graduation. These opportunities serve as an extended interview period with potential employers, offering a chance to impress and secure a job offer. 63.1% of paid interns receive at least one job offer, demonstrating the high conversion rate of internships to full-time employment.
To find the right internship, students can explore opportunities through diverse platforms such as:
- Internships.com
- Glassdoor
- University job listing sites like Brown Connect
- Google searches
Networking also plays a key role in uncovering internships, providing access to many job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
Networking
Networking is a powerful tool that provides opportunities to:
- Meet experienced medical professionals
- Discover job openings
- Connect with professional healthcare organizations
- Attend events and conferences
- Volunteer on healthcare projects
These avenues serve as key networking opportunities for healthcare professionals, including those involved in health insurance portability.
Taking on locum tenens assignments allows healthcare professionals to experience different clinical environments and serves as a platform for networking that can lead to longer-term positions. Platforms like HealthCareTalentLink (HCTL) are specifically designed for the healthcare industry, enabling professionals to connect, communicate, and collaborate effectively.
Online Learning Options for Health Information Technology Training
The rise of e-learning has revolutionized access to education in Health Information Technology. By eliminating geographical barriers and enabling flexible learning schedules, online learning has opened up new opportunities for aspiring health information technicians.
Online platforms like Coursera provide an array of health-related courses and degree options that can significantly benefit individuals pursuing a career in Health Information Technology. These platforms offer a vast selection of courses, allowing students to tailor their learning to their specific interests and career goals.
With the convenience of online learning, students can balance their education with other commitments, making it an ideal solution for those with busy schedules or those living far from traditional educational institutions.
Benefits of Online Learning
E-learning offers numerous benefits to healthcare professionals. It enables learners to set their schedules, making education accessible even with irregular work hours and without geographical constraints. Online learning also provides a variety of resources like video, audio lessons, webinars, and textbooks, catering to different individual learning styles for more effective education.
Unlike traditional classroom settings, online learning platforms offer the following benefits:
- Students can revisit and review course materials indefinitely to ensure thorough understanding.
- This flexibility empowers learners to take control of their education, learning at their own pace.
- Students can revisit complex topics as needed.
Tips for Success in the Health Information Technology Field
Thriving in the health information technology field requires specific skills and attributes. Being highly organized is crucial for health information technicians to effectively manage records and evaluate incoming data. Attention to detail is also a critical skill to maintain accuracy and quality control in patient data and medical records management.
Health information technicians can also benefit from a problem-solving approach due to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of their work environment. Continuing education is another key to success, helping healthcare professionals stay informed about the latest patient care practices.
Continuing Education
Given the constant technological and informational advancements, it’s paramount for professionals to stay updated in the health information technology field. Engaging in continuing education helps healthcare professionals provide better care to patients. Health information technicians who commit to continuing education demonstrate professional growth, which can lead to more career opportunities.
E-learning for healthcare, including health information technology and electronic health record management, allows healthcare professionals and students to:
- Continue education and improve professional knowledge remotely
- Stay current in their field
- Enhance their skills
- Boost their career prospects
This flexibility enables professionals to continue their education and improve their professional knowledge remotely, enhancing their skills and boosting their career prospects.
