Health Information Technology, A.A.S.

The Health Information Technology curriculum prepares individuals with the knowledge and skills to process, analyze, abstract, compile, maintain, manage, and report health information.

Students will supervise departmental functions; classify, code and index diagnoses and procedures; coordinate information for cost control, quality management, statistics, marketing, and planning; monitor governmental and non-governmental standards; facilitate research; and design system controls to monitor patient information security.

Graduates of this program may be eligible to write the national certification examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). Employment opportunities include hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, health insurance organizations, outpatient clinics, physicians’ offices, hospice, and mental health facilities.

Upon successful completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate effective, professional written and oral communication skills with consumers and co-workers.
2. Use and apply critical thinking skills and basic health information management principles to recognize, analyze, and solve problems.
3. Perform and interpret math calculations related to descriptive healthcare statistics.
4. Use current technology to access and process health information.
5. Demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level health information competencies.
6. Practice in a legal, ethical, and professional manner by demonstrating responsibility, initiative, positive attitudes toward those of diverse backgrounds, integrity, time management skills, and the ability to work in teams in a healthcare setting.

Accreditation:

The Health Information Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

Technical Standards:

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of health information technology. These technical standards are published in the application for admission to health programs and the Student Handbook and/or are available from program faculty.

Admission Requirements:

Qualified applicants are admitted to the program based on selective ranking criteria.

Applicants for admission to the Health Information Technology program must:

1. Complete the requirements for admission as described in the Allied Health Packet.

Transfer Credit for Health Information Technology Courses

The decision regarding transfer credit for health information courses is made by the Director of the program in consultation with members of the faculty and the Associate Dean. Syllabi for courses for which credit is requested will be required.

Progression Requirements

A grade of “C” or better is required in all HIT, MED, BIO, and ENG prefix courses.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check and drug testing are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility refuses to allow the student to participate in clinical experiences in that clinical agency, the student will not be able to progress in the program.

NOTE: Special legal requirements exist which may limit the ability of an individual to obtain clinical experience, employment, or certification in the Health Information field. Prospective students should obtain additional information from a College counselor or program faculty member prior to seeking admission.