Career Definition for a Health Information Technician
Health information technicians collect patients' medical data and record the data in paper or computer files. They review health records and insurance claims and ensure compliance with privacy laws. Health information technicians may also be involved in implementing electronic health record systems.
| Education | Associate degree as a minimum; bachelor's, master's and doctoral recommended for advancement |
| Job Skills | Computers, information systems, research, coding |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $46,660 for medical records and health information technicians |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 7% for medical records and health information technicians |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
Health information technicians must earn a minimum of an associate's degree in health information technology, but a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree in health information management may be required for advancement in this field. Courses for health information technicians may include medical information systems, pathophysiology, health care management and medical terminology.
Skills Required
Health information technicians must be knowledgeable about computers and information systems. They also must have strong research, coding and data analysis skills.
Economic Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical records and health information technicians were expected to see job growth of 7% from 2021 to 2031, which is as fast as the projected average job growth for all occupations. The median annual salary for medical records and health information technicians was $46,660 as of May 2021.
Alternative Career Options
Listed below are some other careers in healthcare administration:
Medical Transcriptionist
Like health information technology workers, medical transcriptionists are non-medical personnel who work in the health care field. Medical transcriptionists provide written transcripts of audio recordings from doctors and other medical professionals. These transcriptionists must understand medical terminology and be able to operate transcription equipment. Certificate and associate's degree programs in medical transcription provide the training required for this career. Professional certification is not always required, but earning the Registered Medical Transcriptionist or Certified Medical Transcriptionist credential can demonstrate a transcriptionist's abilities to potential employers. As of May 2021, the median salary for medical transcriptionists was $30,100, according to the BLS. The BLS projects that jobs in the field of medical transcription will shrink by 7% from 2021 to 2031.
Health Information Manager
Health information managers are executives who supervise the work of health information technicians. These workers ensure the accuracy and security of the databases that contain patient health data. Health information managers must complete a minimum of a bachelor's degree, but many hold master's degrees. Many also have some experience in the field of health information. There are several options for professional certification in this field, including the Health Information Technology Certified Manager for Physician Practice credential from the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management. Jobs for medical and health services managers are projected to increase by 28% over the 2021-2031 decade, according to the BLS. The BLS reported in May 2021 that the median annual salary for all medical and health services managers was $101,340.
