Health Information Management Salary and Careers
 |
 |
|
|
 |
Health Information Management - Career Paths
Individuals trained in Health Information Management can choose from many different career paths since they have knowledge in science, business and information technology. HIM professionals work in a variety of settings including: health care facilities, consulting firms, government agencies, insurance companies, health care IS/IT vendors, and pharmaceutical companies.
Those entering the field with an associate degree will be eligible for employment in occupations such as:
- Quality Improvement Specialist
- Abstractor
- Medical Coder
- Health Information Technician
- Charge Master Auditor
- Documentation Specialist
- Cancer Registrar
- Information Access/Disclosure Specialist
Individuals with a bachelor's degree in Health Information Management may gain entry-level employment in one of the following areas:
- Assistant HIM Director
- Business Process Engineer
- Coding Specialist
- Health Information Specialist
- Patient Information Coordinator
- HIM Project Manager
- Consultant
- Clinical Data Analyst
After receiving some experience in the field, career advancement opportunities include:
- HIM Department Director
- HIM Systems Manager
- Data Quality Manager
- Health Information Administrator
- Information Security Officer
- Privacy Officer
- Compliance Officer
- Regional HIM Director
Health Information Management — Salary and Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that Medical Records and Health Information employment will continue to grow at a rate of 18% through 2016, a rate that is much faster than the average for all occupations. Further information can be found at US Department of Labor–Bureau of Labor Statistics web site. (Please note that this source references entry-level health information positions and does not specifically address Health Information Management.)
Salary Surveys
For Health Information Management professionals, salaries depend on the individual’s level of education, time and type of experience in the field, credentials earned, and geographic location.
The American Health Information Management Association posted the results of their member salary survey from 2008. Review their findings at AHIMA Salary Survey
Work environment for careers in Health Information Management
Health Information Managers typically work in a clean, comfortable office environment and receive a comprehensive benefit package that includes health insurance, paid vacation, and a retirement savings plan such as profit-sharing or 401(k). However, some Health Information Management professionals choose to work as a consultant for many different organizations, in which case benefits packages vary.
As this position carries a lot of responsibility, work weeks may often extend beyond 40 hours without overtime pay. Some travel may be required to satellite facilities.
Career advancement
Health Information Management professionals advance in this field by gaining experience, moving to a larger organization where responsibilities are increased, obtaining a higher degree, or earning additional industry certifications.
Find out more
Learn more about this growing career field by speaking with one of our Admissions Advisors toll free at 1-866-508-0748 x832. We are happy to provide you with further information about career opportunities and the Herzing University Medical Billing and Insurance Coding and Health Information Management online programs so you can determine which one is right for you.
Request more information