Health Information Technology, A.A.S.

A45360 Total credit hours: 67

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 Associate Degree, Health Information Management Program at Davidson County Community College is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

Program Director 
Heather Watson, RHIA
Smith Health Sciences Center - Office 120
336.249.8186 x6310
heather_watson@davidsonccc.edu

Health Information Technology Fast Facts for 2018:
100% of Employers surveyed in 2018 reported 100% satisfaction with recent graduates. 
100% of Graduates sitting for the RHIT exam in 2018 passed.

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 program student handbook and/or are available from program faculty. Health Information Technology Technical Standards (PDF opens in new window)  

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.

The HIT program will only accept transfer credit for HIT prefixed courses from CAHIM Accredited institutions.  A maximum of 15 hours of HIT prefixed courses may be transferred in from another institution.

Progression Requirements

A student must earn a grade of “C” or better in all HIT, BIO, MED, and ENG prefix courses in order to progress in the program.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check, drug screen, and up-to-date immunizations are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility denies a student’s participation 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 Adviser or program faculty member prior to seeking admission.