The Need for Health Information Managements
A look at CUNY SPS’ programs for health information professionals
CUNY SPS was proud to observe Health Information Professionals Week (April 15–19), which raises awareness about the HI profession and recognizing HI professionals’ valuable contributions to healthcare.
In honor of this week, we are delighted to feature a Q&A with Memory Ndanga, academic director of the CUNY SPS Health Information Management and Health Services Administration programs, who offers a look at the School’s Health Information Management BS and MS programs.
What is Health Information Management?
Health information management is the practice of managing medical information vital to providing quality patient care, and data governance supporting confidentiality of patient records. This information management process includes acquisition, analysis, and protection of digital and traditional types of information.
What kinds of skills will students gain from studying HIM? (At both a undergraduate or graduate level)
There are a number of skills students will learn from the program, including:
- Strong problem-solving skills and logical thinking
- Strong organizational skills, careful attention to detail and knowledge of HIM workflow/processes and data collection
- Written/oral communications with professionals at all levels both internal and external to the organization
- Demonstrated leadership skills
- Strong knowledge of operational and project management
- Strong analytical, organizational, and professional skills
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills
- Team-oriented with strong interpersonal and communication skills
What kinds of jobs can students get with a HIM undergraduate or graduate degree?
HIM offers a variety of different career paths from technical work, such as coding and billing, to management and leadership roles. HIM professionals are employed by hospitals, physician offices, surgery centers, long-term care facilities, consulting firms and government agencies.
HIM professionals work with all healthcare providers and departments, to help ensure patient information is correct and to promote patient safety through best documentation practices. They may also work for insurance companies, consulting firms, government offices, pharmaceutical companies, nursing homes, law firms, and colleges.
What are the benefits of getting a BS or MS in HIM at CUNY SPS?
Both our BS and MS HIM are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
We also have very low tuition compared to a lot of colleges around the country.
Finally, our classes are taught by qualified HIM professionals and industry experts.
What advice do you have for prospective students or anyone considering the HIM field?
The health information management field opens up many opportunities in the health care industry, and with new technology it is an exciting time to be a health information professional.
