Essential Information
Health information management courses are offered as part of associate's and bachelor's degree programs in health information management or health information technology. Although certification is not required to work in most healthcare settings, some management positions may require licensure.
Here are some common concepts covered in health information courses:
- Clinical databases
- Medical records
- Reimbursement
- Data analysis
- Confidentiality
- Compliance
List of Common Courses
Health Care Information Systems Course
This course introduces students to software platforms that are commonly used in the health care industry. Topics include the information technology software and advances in electronic medical record creation, implementation and management. Students also receive instruction in custom systems designed specifically for the needs of hospitals, long-term care facilities and ambulatory service facilities.
Human Anatomy Course
A course in human anatomy is often a prerequisite to many courses in a health information management degree program. It usually covers the main systems of the human body, such as the skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine and nervous systems. This course provides students with anatomical knowledge that assists them in understanding the information system needs of many health care facilities.
Medical Terminology Course
Students are often required to take a course in essential medical vocabulary before proceeding to more advanced courses in health information management programs. It includes medical terms and abbreviations often found in the health care system. Students also familiarize themselves with the spelling and definitions of common medical terms.
Medical Coding Course
Courses in various types of medical record coding are also required in a health information management degree program. Topics include instruction in diagnostic and procedural coding, as well as medical coding found in the commonly used International Classification of Diseases handbook. This course also covers the decision-making process used to choose the correct medical codes. Separate courses can be offered to teach advanced coding skills.
Quality Control Course
A required part of most health information management programs is a course on quality assurance techniques. Students receive instruction in methodologies that help maintain accuracy and efficiency in health information systems. Topics also include risk management and quality improvement systems in both medical research and data analysis.
