Health Information Management Services

Program Description

Health information management represents a continuum of practice concerned with health related information and the management of systems to collect, store, process, retrieve, analyze, disseminate and communicate information related to research, planning, provision, and evaluation of health care services. Patient records in hospitals, clinics, and nursing facilities are the most common sources of health information; however, insurance companies and government agencies also maintain health information systems. The curriculum of the Health Information Management Services program (HIMS) incorporates the disciplines of medicine, management, finance, information technology, and law into the program.

Student Learning Outcomes

Health Information Management Services AAS graduates are prepared to:

• Validate healthcare data and data sources for accuracy, timeliness, and completeness.
• Analyze health information for a quality, utilization, and risk management, and other patient care related studies.
• Interpret and apply laws and accreditation, licensure, and certification standards.
• Analyze the operation, application, and function of computers and related technology in the healthcare environment.
• Apply administrative principles, skills, and techniques in a healthcare environment.

Admissions Information

Admission to the HIMS program requires the applicant to achieve acceptable COMPASS, ASSET, ACCUPLACER or ACT scores or complete recommended skill building/prescriptive work, with at least a “C” average. For further information regarding the Health Information Management program, refer to the Central Community College website (http://www.cccneb.edu).

Notes:

• Additional program costs incurred by the student will include: practicum insurance, required immunizations, background check and drug test.
• Minimum Grade Requirement: Students enrolled in HIMS must achieve a minimum “C” grade in all courses to successfully graduate from the program. Students who do not meet the minimum grade will be required to repeat the course. In addition, a higher-level course, which requires the course as a prerequisite, may not be taken until satisfactory completion is achieved.
• Students are required to complete a background check and drug testing (at student’s expense). Admission to the program is contingent on the results of the check.
• Required to earn a “C” or above for all courses needed for graduation including general education courses.