What Is the Outlook for Careers in Health Information Management?

<p>A career path in health information management can include a number of different options. A manager may be responsible for personnel who actually perform data collection and management. Security and privacy of patient records is one of the primary responsibilities for these professional, and this career deals with the technology of capturing and formatting information. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts about this Occupation</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td>Entry-Level Education</td><td>A minimum of a bachelor's degree is required. Degree fields include information management and medical records administration.</td></tr> <tr><td>Certification</td><td>All health information managers need to hold a registered health information technician (RHIT) certification or be certified as a registered health information administrator (RHIA).</td></tr> <tr><td>Key Skills</td><td>Attention to detail, organization, able to show discretion with confidential materials, interpersonal skills</td></tr> <tr><td>Similar Occupations</td><td>Health Information Management Director, Nursing Home Administrator, Health Services Manager, Insurance Underwriter, Assistant Administrator, Clinical Manager</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---JobGrowth">Job Growth</h3> <p>The outlook for medical and health services managers, including health information managers, is expected to be good, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Growth from 2021-2031 is expected to be much faster than average, at 28%. Individuals who have experience working in the field and a degree are more likely to find desirable positions. </p> <h3 id="section---ReasonsForGrowth">Reasons for Growth</h3> <p>The number of jobs in the field of medical and health services management is expected to grow because of the increasing number of people who are becoming older and more in need of care. In addition, the complexity of the healthcare industry continues to increase as more facilities open. Additional health information managers are necessary for capturing, collating and reporting patient data in a usable format. The BLS mentions that there will be especially be demand for managers at nursing care facilities, health practitioners' offices and medical group practices. </p> <h3 id="section---SalaryInformation">Salary Information</h3> <p>In February 2023, <i>PayScale.com</i> reported a health information manager salary range of $40,000-$84,000 and a median income of $57,924. Most health information management directors earned between $48,000 and $133,000 and had a median income of $77,013, according to <i>PayScale.com</i>.</p>