Advancements in technology have revolutionized the way the healthcare industry stores, maintains, and shares patient data. Data has become its own currency and its monetization is dependent on our ability to gather as much information as possible. Doctors and researchers can look for patterns in the data, helping them develop new ways of predicting or diagnosing illnesses and identify ways to improve clinical care.
The current pandemic has taught us the importance of data collection and set a new precedent for forecasting epidemics and combating existing diseases more efficiently. While health data prior to 2020 was managed and stored, contact tracing was not given much attention. Now we can better determine pathways in disease transmission, which will help prevent future diseases or conditions.
Collection of patient data allows health systems to create a holistic picture of patients, which provides personalized treatments, and improves communication between patients and doctors. This will enhance health outcomes for current and future generations.
Accurate information is a powerful tool to combat the three leading factors impacting our healthcare system: population growth, an aging population, and new viruses. That is why a career in Health Information Management is essential for the future, with it, you can diversify your professional portfolio and remain current. Remaining relevant in a technically driven economy helps you navigate the challenges that may come along. It is a personal safety net created through lifelong learning and professional development.
Health Information Management (HIM) offers a variety of different career paths– from technical work, such as coding and billing, to management roles. As you can see from these job titles, the traditional roles of healthcare providers have expanded significantly in recent years. This new era has forced the creation of new specializations and trends project positions will continue to grow.
HIM employers and health care providers have pushed that expansion by finding new ways to incorporate health information into decision-making, research, and analysis. HIM managers can be found in hospitals, clinics, physician's offices, nursing homes, physical therapy clinics, and even government agencies.
The addition of new specializations has also created a growing demand for new skills and training, but even with the projected job openings, many are still hesitant to make the transition into HIM. It is safe to say the benefits are much greater than the risks, here is why:
Versatility
Modernization of production processes and global competition contribute to our constant desire for growth and development. Like all professionals, healthcare providers must remain up-to-date and continue to challenge themselves technically to remain attractive to employers.
One of the main reasons healthcare professionals struggle in the current job market is due to a lack of technical upgrading. A career in Health Information Management helps to bridge the technical gap.
There is a surprising variety of health information roles out there depending on your future goals and individual strengths. Even if you do not see yourself working directly with patients, you might want to consider a health information management career to explore other careers like medical billing, insurance claims specialist, research, and health information technicians.
Higher Wages
When deciding to make a career change, higher wages are the number one reason people decide to leave or remain in their position.
Statistics Canada reported that all eight categories of the economy that the data agency tracks rose, from food and energy to shelter costs and transportation. Higher wages are necessary to help combat the rising cost of inflation.
Health care professionals can earn a substantial income with earning potential is only being limited by your education, experience, and motivation.
An advanced degree like Ashton College’s Diploma in Health Information Management can help supplement the knowledge gaps you may have in your current work history. Another bonus of this program is that it is accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM).
According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a Health Information Manager is $57,138 in Canada.
Growing Industry
When evaluating the pros and cons of an advanced degree, career growth is also important to consider. People want to know their careers will have longevity and provide ongoing opportunities for expansion.
By constantly challenging yourself and learning new skills, complacency does not have the chance to creep in. Instead, you are forced to acquire new skills and ways of thinking.
While wages are affected by workers’ education, certification, and job responsibilities. Employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow 16 percent from 2020 to 2029, adding about 2.6 million new jobs, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics.
Job Security
The thought of not having a job is frightening so when deciding to change your career path, job security is a crucial factor to consider. The most secure positions in the healthcare industry are careers that have high job growth rates. If there is a high rate of demand for healthcare professionals, then employers will actively search for individuals with skillsets specific to Health Information Management. Since the career opportunities in HIM provide different settings and job titles, transferring your skills from one position to the other is more seamless.
A Diploma in Health Information Management is the perfect credential for anyone exploring a new career path or for people looking to modernize their work experience. Whatever your desired goal, the field of HIM has a place for you.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this post is considered true and accurate as of the publication date. However, the accuracy of this information may be impacted by changes in circumstances that occur after the time of publication. Ashton College assumes no liability for any error or omissions in the information contained in this post or any other post in our blog.
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