Your Pathway to Success: Top Health Information Technician Training in New York
Looking for health information technician training in New York? Start your journey here with a concise overview of accredited training pathways, key certification steps, and the job landscape awaiting you in this dynamic healthcare sector. Equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate New York’s educational offerings and evolve into a certified professional, ready to meet the demands of a thriving industry.
Becoming a Health Information Technician in New York
To become a Health Information Technician in New York, begin by completing an accredited Health Information Technology program. Not just any program, but one that is recognized and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) such as the Health Information Technology (HIT) program at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC).
Graduating from an accredited program qualifies you to sit for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification examination. This certification is a testament to your proficiency and readiness to join the health informatics workforce and is recognized by healthcare organizations across New York and beyond.
Education and Degree Programs
Health Information Technology programs, such as the health information technology course, aim to furnish you with the skills required for diverse roles in health information management. For instance, the HIT program at BMCC prepares students for careers as:
- Health information technicians
- Medical coders
- Medical records technicians
- Security consultants
This program is endorsed by the CAHIIM and will remain accredited through 2026-2027.
If you’re looking for flexibility, Mohawk Valley Community College (MVCC) offers an online Health Information Technology program. This program includes general and technical education courses, such as:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Medical terminology
- Pharmacology
Preparing students for entry-level positions in the healthcare industry.
Certification Process
The RHIT certification exam is a milestone for aspiring health information technicians. Eligibility for this exam requires enrolment in a CAHIIM-accredited Health Information Management program in your final term or completion of coursework with official transcripts pending post-graduation.
The RHIT certification exam comprises 150 questions that span six domains, each having a different weightage on the total score. To pass, you need to achieve a score of 300 within a 3.5-hour timeframe. The costs for the exam are $299 for non-members and $229 for members of AHIMA.
Job Opportunities and Outlook
The outlook for Health Information Technicians appears promising. Here are some key points:
- Employment in this field is projected to grow 16 per cent from 2022 to 2032.
- About 3,100 job openings are projected each year over the decade.
- There’s an abundant supply of opportunities.
These job openings stem from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labour force, such as retiring. The median annual wage for health information technologists and medical registrars in the United States was $58,250 in May 2022, making it a financially rewarding career choice. Additionally, medical research firms offer ample opportunities for growth and development in this field.
Health Informatics and Electronic Health Records
Health informatics represents the convergence of healthcare, information technology, and data analytics. It’s all about managing and using patient data effectively to improve healthcare delivery. One of the key components of health informatics is Electronic Health Records (EHRs). EHRs provide accurate, up-to-date, and complete patient information at the point of care, enhancing the quality and safety of care. Health data organizations play a crucial role in facilitating the effective use of this information.
Despite the benefits, the implementation of health informatics and EHRs faces challenges such as:
- High implementation costs
- The learning curve for personnel training
- Potential new problems like data security
- Decreased productivity during the transition from paper to digital systems
Role of Health Information Technicians
Health Information Technicians play a pivotal role in health informatics by:
- Ensuring the correct, accessible, and secure management of patient’s electronic health records
- Analyzing patient treatment information
- Ensuring the accuracy of medical records
- Providing data for various departmental requests
Health Information Technicians collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals, like physicians. They update and maintain the availability of individual patient records when needed, ensuring that healthcare providers have access to crucial patient information at the right time.
Technologies and Tools
Health Information Technology (HIT) comprises hardware, software, and systems aimed at managing health care information, thereby enhancing services to diverse stakeholders in the industry. HIT systems facilitate efficiency in healthcare through improved care coordination, reduced administrative work, and better communication across different healthcare entities.
At the core of HIT lies the Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), which enable instant access to patient information within an organization. Additionally, standardized software and programming protocols like Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) are essential for seamless integration among different EMR systems. Some health information technicians may even have competencies in software development and information system design, enabling them to create and update electronic health records systems.
Top Health Information Technology Programs in New York
New York hosts some of the top Health Information Technology programs in the country. One such program is offered by the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC). This program offers classes during the day and caters to a variety of scheduling needs. BMCC has also formed articulation agreements with four-year colleges, ensuring a smooth transition for students advancing their education.
Program Overview and Accreditation
The curriculum of the BMCC HIT program offers courses like:
- Introduction to Statistics
- Anatomy and Physiology
- General Psychology
- Fundamentals of Speech
This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), making it a reliable choice for students.
Online and Hybrid Options
Mohawk Valley Community College caters to students preferring online learning by offering an Associate in Applied Science in Health Information Technology, delivered entirely online. This program caters to students needing flexible learning schedules and includes internships and service learning that provide practical experiences.
This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with family or other commitments that make attending traditional, in-person classes challenging. With online programs, you can learn at your own pace and convenience, making it easier to balance your studies with other responsibilities.
Skills and Competencies for Health Information Technicians
Achieving success as a Health Information Technician necessitates a mix of technical and soft skills. Some technical skills required for this role include:
- Knowledge of health informatics
- Electronic health records
- Medical coding
- Familiarity with health information systems
Soft skills, on the other hand, are equally important. These include:
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Time management
Developing these skills will not only help you excel in your role but also open up more opportunities for career advancement.
Technical Skills
The technical skills required for a Health Information Technician revolve around managing and utilizing health information effectively. Some of these skills include:
- Medical coding
- Data analysis
- Electronic health record management
- Health information systems
- Privacy and security regulations
For instance, the Health Information Technology (HIT) A.A.S. program at Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) includes teaching skills related to medical coding.
Besides coding, you also need strong analytical skills for interpreting medical records to ensure accurate coding and billing. An understanding of medical terminology is also crucial to facilitate clear communication with healthcare professionals and precise review of medical records. In this context, a clinical documentation improvement specialist plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and accuracy of medical records.
Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, Health Information Technicians should also demonstrate a variety of soft skills. These include:
- Patience when engaging with insurance vendors and patients
- Cultural competence in their interactions with diverse individuals
- Emotional intelligence to handle stress professionally
Some important skills and attributes for Health Information Technicians include:
- Strong time management and self-motivation
- Adaptability to changes in the healthcare environment
- Effective teamwork with various healthcare professionals
- A robust work ethic to complete tasks efficiently
These skills are essential for prioritizing tasks and managing workflow independently in the field of Health Information Technology.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Undertaking an education in Health Information Technology involves a cost. However, numerous financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to help you finance your education.
These financial resources can significantly ease the burden of tuition fees, making education in Health Information Technology more affordable and accessible. From federal grants to state-sponsored financial aid and scholarships, there are various options you can explore to fund your education.
Discover Health Information Technology Opportunities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic
If you’re exploring health information technology career options in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, our resources provide valuable insights tailored to each state. From certification requirements to training programs and job prospects, these guides offer the information you need to navigate your career path. Check out our pages for:
Each state page highlights the unique healthcare landscape, including demand for professionals, salary expectations, and available educational pathways. Use these resources to make informed decisions about starting or advancing your career in health information technology in these regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role do HIT professionals play in ensuring compliance with New York’s healthcare regulations?
HIT professionals help ensure that patient health records are accurate, secure, and compliant with state and federal laws, including HIPAA and New York State Public Health Law.
How long does it take to complete an HIT program in New York?
Most associate degree programs in HIT take about two years to complete. Certificate programs focusing on specific areas like medical coding may take less time, depending on the program.
