Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
Medical Records and Health Information Technicians

Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs) ensure the quality of medical records by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into computer systems. They may also use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data for the purpose of improving patient care or controlling costs. RHITs often specialize in coding diagnoses and procedures in patient records for reimbursement and research. RHITs may serve as cancer registrars, compiling and maintaining data on cancer patients. With experience, the RHIT credential holds solid potential for advancement to management positions and increase in salary, especially if it is combined with a bachelor's degree.

Note: To be eligible for AHIMA's RHIT Certification exam, candidates must have earned an associate degree in health information management or technology in a CAHIIM accredited program.

>> RHIT Career Page
>> RHIT Career Outlook
>> RHIT Salary
>> RHIT Career Opportunities
>> Preparing for a Career as a RHIT
>> Do I Need RHIT Certification?
>> Eligibility Requirements for AHIMA's RHIT Certification

Health Information Technology
Applied Associate of Science

Rasmussen's Health Information Technology AAS Degree program is accredited by CAHIIM and will prepare students to take the American Health Information Management Association's (AHIMA) examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). Graduates with HIT training understand the healthcare system and how to communicate well within a team setting. Graduates will be able to perform medical coding and billing, analyze data, use and understand scanning technology, navigate an electronic health record, manage a file room, and release medical information under appropriate circumstances. Key courses will include: Introduction to Health Information Management, Basic ICD-9-CM Coding, Ambulatory Care Coding, and Quality Analysis & Management.

• Medical Administration AAS
• Healthcare Management - BS

Health Information Technology
Associate of Applied Science

DeVry's CAHIIM accredited Health Information Technology program follows a curriculum based on current associate degree entry-level competencies outlined by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). This HIT program prepares graduates to work with applications systems and manage electronic health information databases. Students will have access to up-to-date coding and chart management lab software 24/7, and the opportunity for professional practice experience, including two practicum. Graduates of this CAHIIM accredited program will be prepared to take AHIMA's national RHIT certification exam.

DeVry University also offers:

• Technical Management / Health Information Management - BS
• CIS / Health Information Systems - BS

DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. In New York, DeVry University operates as DeVry College of New York. DeVry University operates as DeVry Institute of Technology in Calgary, Alberta. DeVry is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. AC0060. DeVry University is authorized for operation by the THEC. www.state.tn.us/thec. Nashville Campus - 3343 Perimeter Hill Dr., Nashville, TN 37211 Program availability varies by location.

Health Information Technology
Associate of Applied Science

NAU's CAHIIM Accredited Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Technology (HIT) is an excellent career choice if you see yourself working in the in-demand health care field, but not directly with patients. As a graduate of this program, it may be your job to verify the completeness and accuracy of medical records and data entry into computer systems to ensure medical record quality; to use technology to analyze for quality and efficiency of patient care; to code patient diagnoses and procedures for research or reimbursement purposes; or to work in specialized registries that maintain data for medical research. NAU's HIT AAS program holds accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) to allow graduates of the HIT program to be eligible to take the certification examination offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).

Health Information Technology
Associate of Applied Science

Northwestern College's CAHIIM accredited online associate's degree in Health Information Technology prepares students to enter this growing field. Students of this program will complete a curriculum that qualifies them to organize and evaluate medical records, code patient records according to standard classifications, consult with physicians to clarify diagnoses and treatment, and use computer programs to tabulate and analyze data. Graduates of this program will be eligible to sit for AHIMA's RHIT certification exam.

Health Information Technology
Associate of Science

The CAHIIM accredited Health Information Technology associate degree program will prepare the student to perform information management services that directly impact the quality of patient care. These functions include organizing, analyzing and technically evaluating health information; compiling various administrative and health statistics; coding diseases, operations, procedures and therapies; maintaining and using health information indexes; creating disease data registries; facilitating storage and retrieval of health data; utilizing computerized health data; and controlling the use and release of health information. Graduates of this program will be eligible to sit for AHIMA's RHIT certification exam.

• Health Administration - BS

Health Information Technology
Associate of Applied Science

The CAHIIM accredited comprehensive online Health Information Technology AAS degree program covers the technical aspects of the industry including healthcare compliance, necessary computer usage, healthcare data applications, advanced health information coding, and more. Basic anatomy and physiology and medical terminology are also covered, as well as human resource management essentials. Within less than two years of study, you'll complete 17 courses in subjects including Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, Health Systems and Procedures, Healthcare Data Applications, and much more. The program includes four Professional Practice Experiences or internships.

Health Information Management - Bachelor of Science
The CAHIIM Accredited Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management degree program prepares students with the necessary skills and academic knowledge for management and higher-level administrative positions in a variety of health related settings including hospitals, clinics, long-term care settings, consulting firms, government agencies, insurance companies and software vendors. A health information administrator is responsible for the management of health information systems consistent with medical, administrative, ethical and legal requirements of the healthcare delivery system. They are experts in coding and classification systems, managing patient health information, and administrating computer information systems. Individuals with interests in computer science, business administration, health science and healthcare administration are well-suited for a career in health information management.

Health Information Management
RHIT to RHIA Progression -
Bachelor of Science
This CAHIIM accredited program provides a unique path for RHITs to obtain their BS in HIM in just 2 ¼ years. This program has been tailor-made for working RHITs who don't want to be bogged down with countless electives in their efforts to obtain a Bachelor's degree. The accelerated curriculum-made possible by an advanced network of support-prepares students to truly excel in the field. This RHIT progression program builds on the knowledge and skills acquired through prior education and work experience. Graduates of this program are equipped with the knowledge to take AHIMA's RHIA certification exam.

• Health Administration - MHA

Health Information Management -
Post Bachelor's Certificate
This CAHIIM accredited online Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Health Information Management allows experienced health care, business, and IT professionals to become eligible for the highly-valued Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) Certification. This online program can be completed in as few as 11 courses. Graduates are eligible to register for the national Registered Health Information Administrators (RHIA) credential examination offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Over 90 percent of our graduates pass the exam, consistently scoring above the national mean in both overall and subject-specific areas.

• Health Informatics - MS
• Health Informatics - Certificate (Post-Master's)

Health Informatics - Bachelor of Science
This CAHIIM accredited Health Informatics BS Degree program combines concepts in healthcare, information technology, and leadership practice to provide students with the knowledge and skills to be a valuable designer, developer, and manager of health information systems. It is designed for healthcare and health information professionals seeking IT skills to move into health informatics as well as IT professionals seeking a career that combines healthcare, IT, and business. As part of the program, students can earn the two industry relevent certifications: CompTIA A+, CIW Database Design Specialist. The program proudly holds CAHIIM accreditation, which allows its graduates to become eligible for the AHIMA RHIA credentialing exam.

Tuition at WGU is charged at a flat rate every six months and covers all coursework attempted in that time. A full-time load for this degree program is at least 12 competency units (credit equivalents) per 6-month term. Whether you complete more or fewer units, you are charged the same flat rate. You have a significant advantage if you have extensive experience in the field and the time to take on a substantial course load. If you can shorten the time it takes for you to complete your degree, you pay less. So, if you earn this BS Degree in 4 years, your tuition is only $23,120.

Health Information Management - Master of Science
This Health Information Management master’s specialization offers health care-focused course work on information systems, databases, system security, data analysis, decision support, and strategic management, along with overviews of important IT and business topics. The curriculum follows the model curriculum of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and was developed to align with the criteria of the Commission on Accreditation for Health Information and Information Management (CAHIIM). It is designed to help you use information management and security to support efficient, accurate health care delivery and management. People who choose this specialization are often IT professionals pursuing health information management or consulting positions in hospitals, clinics, and health care systems.

Health Information Technology - Associate of Applied Science
If you are interested in health information data as it relates to patient care and the use of computers in this area, this program may be for you. The program blends online coursework with on-ground clinical experiences# and is designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge, technical skills, and work habits required to pursue entry-level positions in the competitive and growing health information management field. This program requires a clinical practicum and unpaid externship in your area.

IT / Information Systems / Health Informatics - Bachelor of Science
Students of the health informatics specialization will examine data modeling and management for the twenty-first century health care industry. They will review the wide variety of health care information available, focusing on quality, laws, regulations, and standards. Students will learn to design and develop health care IT application components, and gain foundational IT knowledge to support smarter decision making.

Kaplan University is pursuing Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) accreditation for the online Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology program. Once the Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology is awarded initial accreditation from CAHIIM, graduates of the program may sit for the certification exam to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).

• Healthcare Administration - BS (Advanced Start and BS to MHA Options Available)
• Healthcare Administration - MHA

Health Information Technology - Associate of Applied Science
In as little as 16 months students can earn the AAS in Health Information Technology. The program prepares students to work for hospitals, medical offices, nursing homes, home healthcare services, clinics and insurance companies. Students will become proficient in advanced coding and billing, data analysis, database management, medical records management and much more.

IT Management / Healthcare Information Management - Master of Science
Technology touches every aspect of business, and graduates of the MS-ITM program are prepared to set the pace, bringing a values-centered perspective to the business world. The course of study provides a synergy between technology and management and is designed to meet the demands of the constantly evolving business-technology environment. Students will learn to be responsible leaders who will shape how information technology drives business success.

To control expenditures and continue providing quality health care, many medical facilities are turning to information technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The Health Information Management concentration of the online MS in Information Technology Management program combines business, IT and health care knowledge to create leaders who can manage the implementation of these IT solutions.

Health Administration / Health Information Systems - Bachelor of Science
The BSHA Program is designed to integrate a foundation of general education and applied sciences with the expertise that prepares the graduate for professional careers in a variety of health care or related health settings. The curriculum addresses the basic body of knowledge, understanding, and skills identified as relevant to health care services such as management, finance and accounting, legal and ethical parameters, health and disease factors, and human and information resources. In addition, majors provide the student with initial educational preparation for careers in long term care and health information systems.

For program disclosure information, click here

• Health Care Administration / Medical Records - AA
• Health Administration / Informatics - MHA

Health Information Management - Master of Science
The New England College Master of Science in Health Information is targeted to professionals with varying levels of experience who are working in health informatics in healthcare institutions. Most of these professionals come from an IT or other technical background and desire developing management skills in addition to their technical proficiency. However, there are also a significant number of individuals with clinical background (nurses and pharmacists, among others) that have become increasingly involved in managing the health informatics area. Since one of the major challenges that healthcare organizations face is connected to the selection, adoption, and implementation of health informatics programs and processes that will "speak to each other," NEC's Health Information Management program will prepare students to address and resolve these issues widely found in the healthcare industry today.

• Management / Healthcare Administration - MS
• Healthcare Administration - BS

Health Systems Management - Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science in Health Systems Management provides the student with the skills needed to analyze information needs, design solutions, and manage information storage, transfer and retrieval in healthcare environments. Graduates of this program will be able to utilize information systems tools, techniques, and methodologies applicable to healthcare systems, apply project management principles to information systems development efforts in healthcare institutions, and structure information collection and presentation to facilitate executive-level planning and decision-making in healthcare environments. They will also be able to apply fundamental systems analysis and design concepts and problem-solving strategies to information technology problems, develop reporting and support capabilities for healthcare decisions, and analyze, design, and implement solutions to healthcare information problems.

• Health Systems Management - MS

Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)

RHIT Overview

Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs) ensure the quality of medical records by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into computer systems. They may also use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data for the purpose of improving patient care or controlling costs. RHITs often specialize in coding diagnoses and procedures in patient records for reimbursement and research. RHITs may serve as cancer registrars, compiling and maintaining data on cancer patients. With experience, the RHIT credential holds solid potential for advancement to management positions and increase in salary, especially if it is combined with a bachelor's degree.

RHIT Career Outlook

Career outlook and salary potential for RHITs are excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in health information is expected to grow by 20% between 2008 and 2018, which is much faster than the average of all occupations.

RHIT Salary

RHITs have excellent earning potential which only improves with further experience, education, and certification. New graduates with an associate's degree can expect to earn $25k to $35K, while graduates with a bachelor's degree can expect to earn $30k to $50k. Depending on the employment setting, many health information professionals with 5 or more years of experience can expect to earn from $50k to $70k.

RHIT Career Opportunities

RHITs have many employment options. Although most RHITs work in hospitals, you will also find them in a variety of other healthcare settings including office-based physician practices, nursing homes, home health agencies, mental health facilities, and public health agencies. In fact employment opportunities exist for RHITs in any organization that uses patient data or health information such as pharmaceutical companies, law and insurance firms, and health product vendors.

Preparing for an RHIT Career

The RHIT credential is a national certification for health information technicians. First, RHIT candidates must hold a CAHIIM accredited Associate's degree in Health Information Technology. Although the associate degree curriculum offers some general education, the primary focus is more on the technical component of providing a variety of health information services. The curriculum is designed to prepare entry-level graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to use, analyze, present, abstract, code, store and/or retrieve health care data for the support of departmental operations, and clinical and business decision making in healthcare, or related organizations. Second, RHIT candidates must pass the national RHIT certification exam. The 3 1/2 hour exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions. The pass rate of first time test takers for the 2009 RHIT Certification Exam was 82.7%. >> RHIT Exam Content (pdf)

RHIT Certification

Whether you are certified as an RHIT, RHIA, CCA, CCS, etc., earning an AHIMA credential puts you in a special league, positioning you as a leader and role model in the health informatics and information management community. Investing in AHIMA certification is an investment in yourself and your long-term career. AHIMA certification can help you:

• Improve your earning potential
• Open the door to more opportunities for career advancement
• Increase your job mobility and choices even in the face of a tough job market
• Reach not only your short-term job goals, but also position yourself for success in your long-term career
• Provide a foundation of broad and deep understanding
• Be associated with AHIMA's strong and long-standing reputation of integrity and excellence.
• Connect with a strong network of AHIMA-certified peers. Earning an AHIMA credential plugs you into a prestigious community of ongoing support. Although membership is not required in order to become AHIMA-certified, you can enhance your connection even more by becoming an AHIMA member. 

RHIT vs CCS Certification

Both the RHIT and CCS/CCS-P certifications are offered by AHIMA. The CCS certification shows that you are a master of medical coding. The RHIT certification will enable you to move beyond coding and into other health information jobs. For those struggling to decide on which of the two certifications to pursue first, educators, coding professionals, and AHIMA strongly recommend that candidates pursue the RHIT certification first. By completing a CAHIIM accredited HIT program, candidates will be eligible to sit for the RHIT exam. However, to sit for the more demanding CCS exam, candidates should have atleast three years of on-the-job experience.

To be eligible for AHIMA's RHIT Certification exam, candidates must have earned an associate degree in health information management or technology in a CAHIIM accredited program.

All RHIT Programs