What does it take to get a copy of your medical records? How do you prove you are who you say you are? And who exactly has access to this information? These are some of the questions that BCTC students explore in the health information technology program.
Health information technology makes it possible for healthcare providers to better manage patient care through securely sharing health information. It includes using electronic health records to maintain health information.
It’s an industry that hardly existed five or 10 years ago, but new developments in technology and business make health information professionals in high demand. BCTC launched the health information technology program this fall in response to the industry growth.
“Health information technology is the heart of every healthcare facility,” said Heather Greene, program coordinator. “As the healthcare industry moves on the continuum from paper to electronic, there will be a greater need for health information management professionals to lead the way.”
Healthcare employers seek out trained workers who can acquire, manage, and handle information to improve patients health and billing. Health information technician jobs are expected to increase 20 percent by 2018.
Health information technicians work at various healthcare providers, such as hospitals, offices of physicians, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers, and home healthcare services. Technicians also may be employed outside of healthcare facilities, such as in Federal Government agencies. BCTC currently offers an Associate in Applied Science degree in health information technology. The annual wage of health information technicians ranges from $30,610 to $61,000 depending on place of employment.
For more information on BCTC’s health information technology program visit http://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/business/hit