Are you interested in pursuing a career as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)? If so, you may be wondering what steps you need to take in order to achieve this goal. In this article, we will outline the steps and requirements for becoming a RHIT, as well as provide some helpful tips for success in this field.
Step 1: Obtain a High School Diploma or GED
The first step in becoming a RHIT is to obtain a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate. This is the basic educational requirement for entering into a health information technician program.
Step 2: Complete a Health Information Technician Program
Once you have obtained your high school diploma or GED, the next step is to enroll in a health information technician program. These programs are typically offered by community colleges and technical schools, and can usually be completed in two years or less. Coursework in these programs typically covers topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, health data requirements and standards, and computer systems and applications.
Step 3: Obtain Certification
After completing a health information technician program, the next step is to obtain certification as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). This certification is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), and candidates must pass an exam in order to become certified.
Step 4: Gain Professional Experience
Once you have obtained your RHIT certification, IT is important to gain professional experience in the field. Many employers prefer to hire health information technicians who have some experience working in a healthcare setting. Consider seeking out internships or entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities in order to gain practical experience.
Step 5: Stay Current with Continuing Education
In order to maintain your RHIT certification, IT is important to stay current with continuing education requirements. This may involve completing a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) every few years, or participating in professional development activities such as attending workshops or conferences.
Requirements for Becoming a Registered Health Information Technician
In addition to completing the steps outlined above, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to become a Registered Health Information Technician. These requirements include:
- Completion of a health information technician program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)
- Passing the RHIT certification exam administered by AHIMA
- Adhering to the AHIMA Standards of Ethical Coding
Tips for Success as a Registered Health Information Technician
Once you have become a RHIT, there are a few tips that can help you succeed in this field. These include:
- Developing strong organizational and time management skills
- Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in health information technology
- Seeking out opportunities for professional development and networking
- Considering pursuing additional certifications or specializations within the field
Conclusion
Becoming a Registered Health Information Technician can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who are interested in the healthcare industry and have a strong attention to detail. By completing a health information technician program, obtaining certification, gaining professional experience, and staying current with continuing education, individuals can embark on a successful career in this field.
FAQs
What is the average salary for a Registered Health Information Technician?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for health information technicians was $42,630 in May 2020.
Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in a health information technician program?
While requirements may vary by program, many health information technician programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED, as well as strong skills in math, science, and computer applications.
Can I pursue a career as a RHIT if I already have a degree in a different field?
Yes, individuals with a degree in a different field can still pursue a career as a Registered Health Information Technician by completing a health information technician program and obtaining RHIT certification.
How can I prepare for the RHIT certification exam?
There are a variety of study materials and resources available to help individuals prepare for the RHIT certification exam, including review courses, practice exams, and study guides. IT is also helpful to develop a study plan and schedule in order to adequately prepare for the exam.
