Health Information Management Profession

The health information manager is a member of the health care team and is the professional responsible for management of health information systems consistent with medical, administrative, ethical, and legal requirements.

Health information professionals acquire, analyze, and protect data in both electronic and traditional methods to provide information critical to the health care industry. In addition to collecting many kinds of data from a variety of sources, they monitor the integrity of the information, ensure appropriate access to health records, and manage use of this data.

Career opportunities in health information now extend well beyond the health information department and the acute care facility. Professionals with technical expertise, problem-solving skills, knowledge of clinical medicine, and superior communication skills are needed to ensure quality health care documentation, protecting patient confidentiality, and developing and maintaining the electronic health record. The need for accurate and up-to-date health records is not confined to health care facilities. These professionals are employed by managed care organizations, insurance companies, law firms, physician offices, consulting firms, software companies, and the pharmaceutical industry.