Health Information Certificate

Program Description
The Health Information Certificate Program prepares individuals for entry level health information processing positions in various health care facilities. A processor can perform such duties as file and retrieve health records, analyze documentation, compile statistics, assemble health
records, release health information to authorized persons, gather information for medical billing, and provide health information assistance to technical and supervisory staff.

Employment Opportunities
Individuals with a HI Certificate find employment as specialists in hospital health information departments or as generalist processors in ambulatory care clinics or physician practice settings. Entry salaries vary depending on qualifications and job responsibilities and average $10.00 to $15.00/hour.

Physical Requirements
Work in health information may require physical activities including continuous computer data entry, filing, retrieving, and transporting records, and extended periods of sitting and/or standing. Limited lifting of records.

Admission Criteria

• Submission of HIM Certificate Programs Application form
• High school diploma or GED or equivalent
• English assessment reflecting eligibility for ENG 101 First Year Composition or ENG 107 First Year Composition for ESL or permission of Program Director
• Successful receipt of fingerprint/background clearance card and presentation at the HIM Department office

For Your Information

• Courses are primarily offered in evening hours or online. Part-time enrollment is possible.
• Advanced placement is available depending on documentation of experience or prior education. See Program Director.
• Courses may be offered only once a year. Advisement for sequencing is important.
• All courses in this curriculum are applicable to the Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Technology. The AAS program requires literacy testing and an additional application.