The computer systems, networks, and databases industries are projected to grow rapidly over the next decade, and those careers that specialize in healthcare–namely, healthcare IT–are expected to head that pack in terms of job numbers and speed of growth. If you are interested in riding the healthcare IT wave, then you should know that there are a number of reputable educational institutions that can provide you with the certification you need to get started.
American Institute of Healthcare Professionals (AIHP). This healthcare field certifying body offers a comprehensive certification program called the Certified Specialist in Healthcare Information Technology (HIT-CS), and allows you to choose between three sub-specialties–behavioral healthcare, nursing healthcare, and healthcare information technology. You must complete a certain level out outside education to sit for the certification examination.
Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT). This organization is authorized as a certifying body by the United States Department of Health and accredited as a testing laboratory by the Human Services National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The CCHIT also offers an employee search service for employers looking for qualified healthcare IT professionals, so a certification through CCHIT may benefit you in more ways than one.
ECPI University. This technical college allows you to get your bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Science, with a specific concentration in health information technology careers. The great thing is that, through the university’s unique year-round program, you can get that degree and certification in only 2.5 years. ECPI University has four different campuses in the southeast United States, and also offers a wide array of online courses for those who are interested in distance learning.
CompTIA. Through CompTIA, you can become certified as a Healthcare IT Technician. To sit for the certification examination, you must complete a certain number of hours of education and hands-on training in both the technical aspects of healthcare IT, as well as in a clinical setting.
American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). This organization has a specific commission, the Commission for Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM), which is dedicated to the qualification of individuals for careers in healthcare information technology.
If you are interested in earning the certification necessary to make your career as a healthcare IT professional, then there is no shortage of reputable places you can earn your credentials. Just remember that each certifying body is a little different, and the educational and training requirements may also be different, and you should therefore explore all of your options to determine which certification route is best for you.