Should I be a health information specialist?

Do you like...

• being organized

• helping people

• working with data, computers, and information

• reading about health, science, diseases, and treatments

But don't like...

• touching anyone

• seeing blood and gross stuff

• smelling bad odors

  ...then a Health Information Specialist might be a good career option for you!

Health Information Specialists are stewards of health information.

They ensure the accuracy, usefulness, integrity, and protection of patient health information throughout a healthcare organization.

They have skills in:

• data management

• information policy

• information systems

• administrative and clinical workflows

Health Information Specialists do mostly computer and paperwork in clean office environments with relatively low noise.

They can be found in:

• Hospitals

• Clinics and doctor's offices

• Insurance or pharmaceutical companies

• Registries (cancer, trauma, vaccination, device registries)

• Law or governmental offices

• Research institutions

They may also work in home offices.

Training

Most Health Information Specialists obtain a 2-year degree.

• Associate's Degree

• Bachelor's Degree

• Master's Degree - Informatics

Certifications

Certifications bring greater credibility to the profession. The U.S. and Canada offer similar certifications.

• Health Information Technicians

• Certified Professional Coder

• Registered Health Information Administrator

Health Information Specialists earn a good income with good health benefits if they work in a hospital setting. Physician's offices may offer slightly less but have more opportunities for flexible and part-time work.

In the U.S.

According to the American Health Information Management Association, Salary ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 (US) per year.

In Canada

According to the Canadian Health Information Management Association, Salary ranges from $40,232 to $67,075 (CAD) per year.

Where can I find more information about this job?