Online Classes and Schools for Health Information Technology
Get the facts about training for a health information technology career including certifications that could advance your career. Get advice on choosing a program and learn about topics typically covered in these programs.
What You Need to Know
Online health information technology programs prepare students for administrative healthcare roles involving medical coding, insurance and reimbursement. Students can also gain valuable hands-on skills in a variety of healthcare environments, including hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities.
<table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Degrees </b> </td><td> Associate's degree, bachelor's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Courses</b> </td><td> Applied business math, anatomy, medical billing and coding, computer applications and more</td></tr>
<tr><td> <b>Certification</b> </td><td> Certifications are available and often preferred by employers</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>As a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Bachelors_Degrees_in_Health_Information_Technology_Program_FAQs.html">health information</a> technology student, you'll learn about medical billing and coding, file room management and navigating electronic health records. You'll also develop an understanding of the healthcare system as well as teamwork and communication skills. Other topics you'll study may include:
</p><ul><li>Applied business math
</li><li>Anatomy
</li><li>Pathology
</li><li>Medical ethics
</li><li>Computer applications
</li></ul><p>You might complete a practicum, too. Most online programs are available at the associate's level, although some bachelor's programs exist as well.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatMaterialsWillINeed">What Materials Will I Need?</h3><p>Each program will be different. You'll definitely need a computer with internet access and an active e-mail account. Other materials that may be necessary include Microsoft Office and a CD player. Some schools make required course materials available online or ship them to your home. Such materials may include CD-ROMs, document-sharing tools, lecture notes, syllabi, assignments, and a virtual library. The cost of some materials may not be included in your tuition.
</p><p>Some programs also incorporate chat in order to keep in touch with instructors and collaborate on projects with classmates. Depending on the program, you may be required to submit your work in an online drop box.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatShouldIKeepInMindWhenSelectingASchool">What Should I Keep in Mind When Selecting a School?</h3><p>Many employers want health information technicians who are certified, reported the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). You should look for programs that prepare you for certification exams such as the Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR), the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential, or others.
</p><p>Some schools let you transfer credits earned from work experience, prior college courses and IT certifications. You'll be able to waive some degree requirements and graduate sooner than you normally would. For these types of programs, you may have to take tests to determine if your current level of knowledge of the subject is equal to that which is learned in a college classroom.
</p><p>Some schools that offer online programs include:
</p><ul><li>Rasmussen College
</li><li>Western Governors University
</li><li>Southern New Hampshire University
</li><li>George Mason University
</li><li>Collin County Community College</li></ul>