5 Skills Required to Thrive in a Health Information Management Career

In an industry where technology, systems and standards are rapidly evolving to enhance patient care and ensure privacy, there has never been a better time for tech-savvy and heart-centred professionals to pursue health information management (HIM).

Any leading-edge health information management program will open doors to opportunities but honing specific skills valued in a top health information management professional can get you on the fast track to success.

Healthcare Information Management as a Career Option – 5 Skills You Need to Succeed

In a HIM career, you are part of a dynamic healthcare profession that is currently in high demand across the continuum of care as patient needs continue to rise. You are trained in health records management and to manage myriad health information services, apply confidentiality standards, use technology to capture, manage and analyze data and present health information for use in healthcare delivery and financial and management planning.

1. Analytical Savvy

They get a buzz out of problem solving and have a mindset geared to dissecting the issues and finding creative solutions. From determining the appropriate code for a medical procedure and coordinating with the proper healthcare provider to assist in a situation, to evaluating systems and enhancing efficiency, this skill is second nature to an advancing HIM professional.

2. Superior Communication

From patient interactions to connecting with various healthcare providers, their teams, and doctors, HIM professionals must have mastered the art of communication in all its forms. They must have strong interpersonal skills to connect with patients on complex procedures and costs and explain in a comprehensive way that can be understood. They are required to present information in written and verbal form and be meticulous with the facts, all the while upholding the highest standards and safeguarding privacy standards.

3. Insatiable Curiosity and Drive to Perpetually Evolve

This is an industry that never sleeps and advances at a dizzying speed. These professionals thrive on change, are determined to understand, learn, access, and apply the latest in technology, equipment and systems and love to grow and learn on the job and through advanced educational opportunities and certifications.

4. Ethical Leadership and Management

Healthcare facilities and hospitals are looking for HIM professionals to guide them in the latest standards, integrating new technologies and keeping them ahead of the curve on advancing systems and standards. Thriving HIM professionals are expected to have their finger on the pulse; they know how to lead teams and manage the details and the people who drive them and adhere to the highest ethical standards in all areas of work.

5. In-Depth Technical and Medical Knowledge

From healthcare and privacy laws and ethics, medical terminology, and the latest database management systems to health information analysis and project management, the depth and breadth of knowledge required is vast and evolving. HIM professionals who thrive in their careers are intent on certification, and in Canada, work to write the Certified in Health Management (CHIM) national certification examination (NCE) and earn a CHIM professional designation.

Feeling like you want to know more? Still determining if this professional aligns with your interests? Take the “Anderson College Health Information Management Career Discovery Quiz”

But if you have a foundation in these skillsets and are looking to take your knowledge, experience, career and life to new levels, then do we have an extraordinary, Health Information Management program for you, one that’s accredited through the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM). Our program is 60 weeks, taught by industry experts, and includes 420 hours of practicum with on-the-job training, offsite with potential employers.

No need to navigate all the details, even the financial options that may be available to you if you qualify, on your own; we’re here to help you every step along the way. Book a virtual appointment with an Admissions Advisor and let us help you get started.

Quick Links to Fuel Your Success!

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

• Health Information Management Program – Anderson College
• 5 Powerful Reasons to Launch Your HIM Career!
• Your Career Path Options as a HIM Graduate
• Canadian College of Health Information Management