by Melissa Sartore
Updated September 27, 2022
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A degree in health informatics can lead to a rewarding career in healthcare, combining life sciences, information technology and healthcare management.
A health informatics degree develops the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level positions in a booming field of healthcare. The Bureau of Labor Statistics plans a15% growth ratefor health professions from 2019-2029.
An associate's degree in health information technology provides a foundation for earning a bachelor's degree in the field. Read on for rankings of the best online associate degrees in health information technology.
What is an Online Associate Degree in Health Information Technology?
An online health informatics degree integrates science, computer technology, andhealth administrationCourse These programs generally take two years or less to complete. Internship offers in aflexible online environmentallows members to apply what they have learned to careers in health information technology.
Students learn the fundamentals of medical coding and records, health informatics, and the legal aspects of health. A health informatics degree also includes courses in medical terminology, pharmacology and public health. The curriculum prepares students to work as medical records and health information technicians, medical secretaries, and medical transcribers.
People who enjoy working with others, have strong analytical and computer skills, and an interest in health can benefitOnline associate degreesin health information technology. This degree often provides a springboard for further study and in-demand employment opportunities in the healthcare field.
Choosing an Online Health Information Technology Program
if youChoose your area of expertiseThere are other factors to consider with online health information technology programs. Students should consider the program's flexibility, duration, accreditation, and cost. You can also explore the curriculum, faculty, and program highlights.
Many health informatics degrees offer comparable courses, but the specific courses vary by program and institution. Also, online students should research whether the program offers coursessynchronous or asynchronous.
received colleges and universitiesregional or national accreditation, a designation that extends to online programs. Additional program accreditation certifies a program's compliance with standards set by a specific disciplinary body. The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)accredits health information technology programs.
If you want to become a Registered Health Information Technician, you need to register with aTitle accredited by CAHIIM. Upon graduation, students can take the American Association for Health Information Management nationally qualified Registered Health Information Technician exam.
Featured Online Partner in Health Information Technology Programs
preferably onlineHealth information technology workersSoftware
#1 Best Online Partner in Health Information Technology
Lake Shore Technical University
Cleveland, WI - 2 years
- On-line + Campus
From its main campus in Cleveland, Wisconsin, Lakeshore Technical College offers 12 online degree programs, including an associate's program in health information management. Students on the Health Information Management course complete disciplines relevant to the area of health informatics, which prepare them for their professional future. Enrolled students who want to advance in their studies can have the credits of the courses taken to obtain a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can take advantage of career services, university counseling and other success-oriented resources. The university supports its distance learning community through dedicated online resources such as virtual library services and academic mentoring.
Students looking to shoulder the cost of a degree should know that the average enrollee receives $4,592 in financial aid. Students can explore various financing options, with 72% of those enrolled receiving some form of financial aid and 22% opting for student loans.
Lakeshore Technical University Overview:
Type of school: Public, two years
Location: Cleveland, Wisconsin
Student/teacher ratio: 11 to 1
State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,095
International Tuition Fees: $6,143
average tuition
no state
4.095 $
not in the country
6.143 $
retention rate
55%
admission fee
not provided
enrolled students
2.660
Type of Institution
Public
Online registration percentage
67%
accreditation
E
2nd Best Online Partner in Health Information Technology
Clarkson-College
Omaha, Ne - 4 years
- On-line + Campus
Clarkson College offers associate degree applicants online support at its main campus in Omaha, Nebraska. Students in the Health Informatics Associate program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills and prepare them for the demands of a career in health informatics. Health Information Technology students can use their courses towards future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can take advantage of career services, university counseling and other success-oriented resources. The institution also provides online registrants with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources, including writing tutoring.
Students benefit from financial aid, with 78% of those enrolled receiving some form of funding.
Clarkson University Summary:
Type of school: Private, non-profit, four-year
Location: Omaha, Nebraska
Admission rate: 46%
Student/teacher ratio: 18 to 1
State Undergraduate Tuition: $13,392
International Tuition Fees: $13,392
average tuition
no state
13.392 $
not in the country
13.392 $
retention rate
59%
admission fee
46%
enrolled students
1.108
Type of Institution
Private
Online registration percentage
94%
accreditation
E
3rd Best Online Partner in Health Information Technology
Richland Community College
Decatur, IL - 2 years
- On-line + Campus
Richland Community College, a two-year public university, offers two online co-degree programs to distance students worldwide. The Health Information Technology Associate Program prepares students for requirements in the field of health information technology through core and advanced courses. Those enrolled who wish to pursue further studies can apply their courses to obtain a bachelor's degree.
While enrolled, students can take advantage of career services, university counseling and other success-oriented resources. Distance learners can also benefit from virtual services such as library access, writing workshops, and academic tutoring.
Typically, students receive $4,299 in financial aid. Students can explore various financing options, with 87% of those enrolled receiving some form of financial aid and 12% opting for student loans.
Richland Community College em resumo:
Type of school: Public, two years
Location: Decatur, Illinois
Student/teacher ratio: 15 to 1
State Undergraduate Tuition: $5,760
International Tuition Fees: $14,400
average tuition
no state
$ 5.760
not in the country
14.400 $
retention rate
62%
admission fee
not provided
enrolled students
2.846
Type of Institution
Public
Online registration percentage
27%
accreditation
E
#4 Best Online Partner in Health Information Technology
Columbus State Community College
Colombo, Ohio - 2 years
- On-line + Campus
Distance students seeking a flexible online partnership degree in health information technology should consider Columbus State Community College. The AAS in Health Information Management Technology is an online program that prepares students for the field of health information technology through comprehensive courses. Students can transfer their courses to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.
During enrollment, health informatics students utilize institutional resources such as career services and university counseling. Distance learners can access virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.
Members typically receive $4,836 in financial grants. About 72% of all university applicants receive financial support, 20% make use of loans.
Columbus State Community College Overview:
Type of school: Public, two years
Local: Columbus, Ohio
Student/teacher ratio: 18 to 1
State Undergraduate Tuition: $4,588
Tuition for out-of-state students: $9,540
average tuition
no state
4.588 $
not in the country
9.540 $
retention rate
64%
admission fee
not provided
enrolled students
28.159
Type of Institution
Public
Online registration percentage
34%
accreditation
E
5th Best Online Partner in Health Information Technology
Central Arizona University
Coolidge, Arizona - 2 years
- On-line + Campus
Are you looking for a flexible double degree in health informatics? Consider Central Arizona College's online AAS on health information management. Students in the program acquire industry-relevant knowledge and skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Health Information Management students can use their courses for future educational opportunities, such as a bachelor's degree.
During their studies, enrollees can access career services, university counseling and other resources. The institution also provides online registrants with virtual library services and academic tutoring resources, including writing tutoring.
Participants will benefit from financial support opportunities and receive an average of $4,461 in prizes. Students can explore various financing options, with 69% of those enrolled receiving some form of financial assistance and 9% opting for student loans.
Overview of Central Arizona College:
Type of school: Public, two years
City: Coolidge, Arizona
Student/teacher ratio: 16 to 1
State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,580
International Tuition Fees: $5,160
average tuition
no state
2.580 $
not in the country
$ 5.160
retention rate
55%
admission fee
not provided
enrolled students
4.793
Type of Institution
Public
Online registration percentage
76%
accreditation
E
Online Associate in Health Information Technology ProgramsScoring Policies
We rank these programs based on quality, curriculum, school awards, ratings, and reputation.
Our methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and well-being of our readers very seriously. When compiling our rankings of schools and programs, our top priority is to ensure that our readers receive accurate and unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about their online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that puts our readers' needs first.
Our proprietary multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key indicators from data collected by the federal government for each school or program. The data we use depends on the focus of each individual ranking, but in all cases our ranking methodology is unbiased: schoolsYou can't buy better ratingson TBS
While the specific criteria to consider may vary by ranking, there are some data points that we value most. They are affordability, academic quality, and online application. Below we detail our algorithm so you can understand what you get when using one of our rankings.
-
academic -
accessibility -
online registration
data sources
The data used in the TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, with much of it provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to create our rankings.
ANDIntegrated post-secondary education data system(IPEDS) is our main source. Their data comes from annual surveys conducted by the US Department of Education.National Center for Education Statistics(NESE). All colleges, universities, or technical schools with access to federal financial aid are required to complete these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty evaluations. This is publicly accessible data that you yourself can access throughCollege-Browser.
In addition, because we value the personal touch and subject matter expertise of our staff and the Academic Advisory Board, we review all results and adjust rankings where necessary based on our accumulated knowledge of schools and programs. Depending on the classification, we may receive additional information from you.akademischeneinfluss.com, subject matter experts, past TBS review lists, or other sources we feel are relevant to a particular review.
Details of our classification methodology
About our ranking factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability and affordability of online education. These factors guide all of our program evaluations.
Each of these factors is broken down into weighted sub-factors. For example, retention rates are more heavily weighted than the availability of program options, as they are a better indicator of student success.
We selected the following factors for our ranking based on their impact on graduate learning experiences and outcomes. However, students should always compare our rankings with their personal priorities. For example, a student who requires a full online program may prioritize online flexibility over our grades. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision, not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Accessibility - 15%
Online classes - 10%
We strive for objectivity and balance in all our school rankings and recommendations. We carefully research and compile each rating and, as stated in our advertising release, we DO NOT allow ANY financial incentives to influence the rating. Our articles never promote or ignore a school for financial reasons.
If you have any questions about our scoring methodology, please email our teamcontact page.
Thank you for reading and for your trust.
What to Expect from an Associate Degree in Health Information Technology
An associate degree in health information includes courses in life sciences, information technology and health management. Classes introduce students to medical terminology, processes, and practices within the American healthcare system, as well as the fundamentals of medical coding and record keeping.
Assignments develop practical medical software skills. Group projects and activities accompany individual assessments to prepare students for health information technology positions.
Health Information Technology Curriculum
Although courses vary between programs, online associate degrees in health information technology share some common courses.
- CPT Encoding:The CPT Code is a trademark of the American Medical Association and is used as a code for reporting medical, surgical, and diagnostic procedures and services. The CPT Coding course introduces students to specific codes and how they are used in billing processes.
- Medical terminology:Medical terminology courses teach students the medical and clinical language used by healthcare professionals. The course focuses on major body systems and the correct spelling and pronunciation of clinical terms and abbreviations.
- Health reimbursement:This course trains students in medical coding practices and payment methods. Topics include health insurance regulations, application submission, and revenue cycle management.
- Statistical applications in the health area:In this course, students learn how to create and evaluate datasets, examine findings, and apply statistical tools in health-related contexts.
Career in health informatics
Career in health information technologyGraduates are common across the healthcare industry. Many people find positions likeMedical records specialistsin hospitals, doctors' offices and other health facilities. Students should keep in mind that many jobs may require or recommend certifications.
A degree in health informatics opens up opportunities to work in insurance companies and authorities or in a commercial environment. The information below covers some of the most common healthcare careers for health informatics students.
| Career | Average annual salary (2020) | Projected job growth (2019-2029) | Minimum training required | Is certification required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specialists in medical records and health information | 44.090 $ | 8% | High school diploma or related degree | E |
| medical assistants | 35.850 $ | 19% | High school diploma or related degree | No, but recommended |
| medical transcriptionists | 35.270 $ | -2% | High school diploma or related degree | No, but recommended |
Frequently asked questions about health information technology
What jobs can you do with a health informatics degree?
A degree in health information technology trains students for jobs as medical coding specialists, medical secretaries, and health information records technologists.
What is RHIT certification?
RHIT stands for Registered Health Information Technician. This certification validates an individual's ability to accurately and properly access and manage medical and health records.
What is health information technology in nursing?
health information technologyin nursingincludes an aspect of general medical data collection and standardization, patient communication, and comparable information.Nursing careand patient education supported by health informatics professionals.
Why is nursing technology important?
Nurses use technologyin providing care, recording medical and clinical information, and communicating with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
Melissa Sartore
Melissa Sartoreholds a PhD in history from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He received his BA and MA in history from Western Illinois University. A medievalist by training, he has published on bandits in medieval England with additional publications on bandits in popular culture and across geographic and historical boundaries.
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FAQs
What do you think is the biggest contribution of computer technology in healthcare? ›
Improved Access to Medical Information and Data: One of the biggest benefits of the digital revolution has been the ability to store and access data. Healthcare professionals can now retrieve patient data from anywhere.
Who do you think are the best sources of health information and why? ›The National Institutes of Health website is a good place to start for reliable health information. As a rule, health websites sponsored by Federal Government agencies are good sources of information. You can reach all Federal websites by visiting www.usa.gov.
What are the top 3 most important advances in medical technology? ›- Vaccination. ...
- Anaesthesia. ...
- Epidemiology. ...
- Germ theory. ...
- Insulin. ...
- Gene therapy. ...
- 3D printing.
Committee on Practice Management
ABSTRACT: The advantages of health information technology (IT) include facilitating communication between health care providers; improving medication safety, tracking, and reporting; and promoting quality of care through optimized access to and adherence to guidelines.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the fastest growing digital health trends and is re-inventing modern healthcare, using machines that can predict, understand, learn, and diagnose. The near future of healthcare services is poised for massive change, due to artificial intelligence.
What are 3 reliable sources of health information? ›health brochures in your local hospital, doctor's office or community health centre. telephone helplines such as NURSE-ON-CALL or Directline. your doctor or pharmacist. reliable health information websites, such as government sites, condition-specific sites, support organisation sites, and medical journals.
What are 5 good sources of information regarding health? ›- Access Medicine.
- AusDI.
- Better Health Channel.
- BMJ Best Practice.
- Department of Health.
- Doctorportal.
- DynaMed Plus.
- Health&
The main sources of health statistics are surveys, administrative and medical records, claims data, vital records, surveillance, disease registries, and peer-reviewed literature. We'll take a look into these sources, and the pros and cons of using each to create health statistics.
How is computer technology used in healthcare? ›Since medical records are often stored on computers, doctors can quickly get information about patients' past and current health conditions. Computer software can complete medical billing and insurance claims more quickly and efficiently. Computers can be utilized to order and track drugs and medical supplies.
What is the greatest impact of technological advances to the healthcare industry? ›Improved communication channels
Digital technology, on the other hand, has enabled communication between patients and health care professionals much easier. Patients are no longer required to receive letters informing them of their consultations and testing.
What do you think is the greatest impact of these technological advances to the healthcare industry? ›
Technological innovations in healthcare have facilitated much smoother communication within healthcare organisations. Medical professionals can now use media such as video, online discussion platforms and real-time meeting capacities to communicate and advance the spread of knowledge in the field.
How does computer play a greater impact in the field of medicine and healthcare? ›Major uses of computers in medicine include hospital information system, data analysis in medicine, medical imaging laboratory computing, computer assisted medical decision making, care of critically ill patients, computer assisted therapy and so on.