If\u00a0you are seeking a satisfying career, consider Health Information Technology (HIT). HIT combines the disciplines of medicine, computer technology and information management. The degree and certificate offered are designed to prepare students for a variety of entry-level positions within the health care industry. Working with health care practitioners you can play an important role in an arena that offers meaningful work, good pay and the opportunity to keep learning and advancing.<\/p>\n
The HIT professional organizes and manages health information data by ensuring its quality, accuracy, accessibility, and security. HIT professionals must be familiar with the electronic health record computer software, maintaining electronic health record security and analysis of electronic data to improve healthcare information.<\/p>\n
They use electronic health record software to maintain data on patient safety, patterns of disease, disease treatment and outcome. The HIT professional is trained in medical coding \u2013 assigning a code to each diagnosis and procedure by using classification systems software.<\/p>\n
Day or Evening Classes<\/strong><\/p>\n Oakton offers a full-time day and part-time evening A.A.S. degree on the Des Plaines campus. The evening program provides flexibility for people interested in this profession, especially for currently employed adults seeking additional skills or a new career.<\/p>\n All certificates may be completed in the evening.<\/p>\n Job Outlook and Salary Information\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health information professionals is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. National projected growth through 2024 is estimated at nearly 9.8 million new jobs, due to rapid growth and implementation of the electronic health record, in the number of medical tests, and procedures which will be increasingly scrutinized by third party payers, regulators, courts and consumers.<\/p>\n By Job Level in Illinois:<\/p>\n Medical records and health information technicians $42,450<\/p>\n Medical transcriptionist $35,100<\/p>\n Medical secretaries $33,920<\/p>\n Data entry keyers $32,640<\/p>\n Job Titles or Careers<\/strong><\/p>\n Health Data Analyst, Medical Coder, Coding Compliance Auditor, RAC Coordinator, Manager, Director, Privacy Officer, Educator, Consultant.<\/p>\n Questions to ask to see if you fit this profession:<\/b><\/p>\n