Healthcare Information Technology: Jobs of the Future
Jobs in the healthcare information technology field are in high demand since the introduction of the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare). If you’re wondering what types of careers are available to those who have an interest in healthcare and information technology, rest assured there are several career paths to choose from. Below is a list of the most in-demand Healthcare IT jobs. Review each Healthcare Information Technology job description and decide which career is best for you.
Entry-Level Healthcare Information Technology Jobs
Most Healthcare Information Technology careers require an associate’s degree. That means you can complete your Healthcare Information Technology degree and enter the field in as few as 15 months.
Medical Records Technician
Medical Records Technicians are responsible for managing patient health information. They ensure that patient data is accurate by communicating with doctors and other healthcare professionals to clarify or obtain information. Medical Records Technicians also maintain electronic health records databases and analyze electronic data. These jobs are usually entry-level for those who want to start out in the field without any prior experience.
Jobs in the Medical Records Technician category are expected to increase 21% between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is faster than average for all occupations, making the Medical Records Technician career a stable career choice.
Health Information Technician
For those looking to venture into a health information technology job, there are a number of skills that will need to be learned. Health Information Technicians, similar to Medical Records Technicians, are responsible for managing patient records. They ensure medical records are accurate by consulting with healthcare providers, and maintain the security of patient data. The data Health Information Technicians manage includes medical history, diagnostic test results, reported and observed symptoms, examination results, and treatments. Jobs in this category are considered entry-level – perfect for those who are just starting out in the healthcare industry.
Health Information Technician jobs are expected to increase 21% between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This career path is an excellent choice for those interested in Healthcare Information Technology due to its projected increase in jobs over the next few years.
Medical Coder
Medical Coders translate healthcare providers’ diagnostic and procedural phrases into coded form. This is done by reviewing and analyzing health records to identify relevant diagnoses and procedures. Medical Coders must have knowledge of disease processes and procedural techniques to be able to consistently apply the correct codes. Medical Coder jobs typically require a minimum of an associate’s degree and are considered entry-level positions.
Medical Coder jobs fall under the same category as Health Information Technician jobs and are expected to increase 21% between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Mid-Level Healthcare Information Technology Jobs
In most cases, the jobs listed below require a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare and some on-the-job experience. Although these healthcare jobs take longer to obtain, they tend to pay very well and lead to further job opportunities within the healthcare field.
Health Information Manager
Health Information Managers manage and secure patient records. Most of their work is done via computer that allows for electronic storage of patient information. Health Information Managers ensure that patient records are accurate and complete since they are sometimes used for research or quality management. They must also ensure that only authorized personnel have access to databases containing patient information.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Health Information Manager jobs are expected to increase 22% between 2010 and 2020, faster than average for all occupations.
Health Services Manager
The Health Services Manager job typically requires a few years of experience. Health Services Managers are responsible for making sure a health facility runs efficiently and effectively. They plan and coordinate services in hospitals and clinics, and work directly with patients providing services and support. Health Services Managers work in healthcare facilities, including hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes, and clinics.
Jobs in this category are expected to grow 22% between 2010 and 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is faster than average for all occupations.
Get Started In An Exciting New Career in the Health Field
Are you looking to get more information about our health programs at Fremont University? Simply fill out the form on the right column of this page for more information.
If the jobs mentioned above interest you, consider earning a degree in Healthcare Information Technology. The Healthcare Information Technology program at Fremont University takes just 15 months to complete, meaning that you can be on your way to a rewarding career in a little over one year. Upon program completion, you will be prepared for jobs such as Medical Records Technician, Health Information Technician, Medical Coder, and many other in-demand careers in the healthcare industry.
For those who want to advance their healthcare education to the next level, Fremont also offers a Bachelor of Science degree Completion Program in Healthcare Management that takes an extra 15 months to complete. This program will prepare you for management-level leadership roles in the healthcare industry. Space in the Healthcare Information Technology program is limited, so enroll today and take the first step toward career success.
