Health Information Technology

When you study Health Information Technology at CVCC, you’ll develop the skills to ensure the quality of health records, analyze patient data to improve care,  and utilize advanced computer applications to support healthcare operations.

From coding diagnoses and procedures in both inpatient and outpatient settings, protecting the privacy and security of records in all formats and ensuring that records are maintained according to regulations and standards, students gain the practical experience that prepares them for real-world challenges in healthcare. 

Places to Work

While most RHITs work in hospitals, they are also found in other healthcare settings including office-based physician practices, nursing homes, home health agencies, mental health facilities, and public health agencies. RHITs may also be employed in any organization that uses patient data or health information, such as pharmaceutical companies, law and insurance firms, and health product vendors.

RHITs:

• Ensure the quality, privacy and security of health records by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into computer systems.
• Use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data for the purpose of improving patient care or controlling costs.
• Often specialize in coding diagnoses and procedures in patient records for reimbursement and research.

Degree Completion Time

Students who attend full time should be able to earn the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Health Information Technology in about two years. Graduates will be eligible to take the national examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician. For students who choose to attend part-time, the program may take longer than two years.

Clinical Experiences

Students in the HIT program will travel to various locations for a clinical/professional experience during daytime hours. Clinical sites may require a criminal background check and drug screening. Students are required to use CastleBranch, a background screening and compliance management company, for these screenings. There are fees for this service. If any clinical facility refuses to allow a student access to a clinical experience, the student will be unable to complete program requirements. In addition, students will submit a Health Services Student Medical Form.

2023-2024 Student Outcomes

Graduation Rate: 100%

Employment Rate: 80%

Student Satisfaction Rate: 100%

Employers who have hired Health Information Technology students from the program have expressed an overall satisfaction with their skills and preparedness for the job.

Program Costs

Physician exam: $200

Criminal background check & Drug Screen: $115

Immunizations/Vaccines/COVID/Flu: price varies based on student needs

Tb test x 2:  $110

AHIMA Student Membership Dues (2nd year): $45.00

RHIT Exam after graduation: $230

All above costs are estimated and subject to change.