Best Online Associate in Health Information Technology

A health information technology degree can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare by blending biological sciences, computer technology, and healthcare management.

A health information technology degree builds the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level positions in an expanding healthcare field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth rate for healthcare occupations from 2019-2029.

An associate degree in healthcare information technology provides a foundation for continuing onto a bachelor’s degree in the field. Keep reading for the rankings of the best online associate degrees in health information technology.

An online associate degree in health information technology integrates science, computer technology, and healthcare management coursework. These programs typically take two years or less to complete. Practical coursework offered in a flexible online environment allows enrollees to apply what they learn in careers in health information technology.

Students learn the fundamentals of medical coding and record-keeping, health informatics, and legal aspects of healthcare. A health information technology degree also includes classes in medical terminology, pharmacology, and healthcare delivery. The curriculum prepares learners to work as medical records and health information technicians, medical secretaries, and medical transcriptionists.

Individuals who enjoy working with others, possess strong analytical and computer skills, and have an interest in healthcare can benefit from online associate degrees in health information technology. This degree often provides a springboard for continued study and further employment opportunities in the in-demand healthcare field.

Once you choose your major, there are other factors to consider in health information technology online programs. Students should look into program flexibility, length, accreditation, and costs. They can also explore curricula, faculty, and program highlights.

Many health information technology degrees offer comparable coursework, but specific classes vary by program and institution. Additionally, online learners should research whether the program delivers courses synchronously or asynchronously.

Colleges and universities receive regional or national accreditation, a designation that extends to online programs. Additional programmatic accreditation attests to a program’s adherence to the standards established by a discipline-specific agency. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) accredits health information technology programs.

If you want to become a registered health information technician, you should enroll in a CAHIIM-accredited degree. After graduation, students can take the American Health Information Management Association’s registered health information technician national qualifying exam.

An associate degree in health information includes coursework in biological science, computer technology, and healthcare management. Classes introduce students to medical terminology, processes and practices within the American healthcare system, and fundamentals of medical coding and record-keeping.

Assignments build practical medical software skills. Projects and group activities accompany individual assessments to train learners for positions in healthcare information technology.

While classes vary between programs, online associate degrees in health information technology share some common coursework.

Careers for health information technology graduates extend throughout the healthcare industry. Many individuals find positions as medical records specialists in hospitals, physicians’ offices, and other healthcare institutions. Learners should keep in mind that certifications may be required or encouraged for many jobs.

A degree in healthcare information technology opens opportunities to work at insurance companies and in government agencies or business environments. The following information covers some of the most common healthcare careers for health information technology students.

A health information technology degree trains students for employment as medical coding specialists, medical secretaries, and health information records technologists.

RHIT stands for “registered health information technician.” This certification attests to an individual’s ability to accurately and properly enter and manage medical and health records.

Health information technology in nursing comprises one aspect of the overall collection and standardization of medical data, patient communication, and comparable information. Nurses care for and educate patients, which health information technology professionals support.

Nurses use technology when providing care, recording medical and clinical information, and communicating with patients, families, and other medical professionals.