Medical Records and Health Information Technicians
What They Do:
Healthcare IT is the use of computer and digital technology in medical facilities to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical healthcare for patients and providers. Healthcare IT can include, but is not limited to, electronic coding and billing systems, electronic medical records, and networks for digital imaging.
The two main ways of acquiring a healthcare IT position are to move from the clinical side (a clinician who moves into a health IT role) or from the IT side (an IT professional, without healthcare experience, who makes the transition into a healthcare IT role).
Qualifications
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "health information technicians typically need a postsecondary certificate to enter the occupation, although some may need an associate’s degree. Certification is often required."
What They Make:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2019 median pay was $42,630 per year.
Where They Work:
Healthcare IT workers are employed in offices, and may work from home.
Career Outlook:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health information professionals is expected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Records and Health Information Technicians,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-records-and-health-information-technicians.htm (visited December 2020).
Updated December 2020
