Campus Location: Online
Program Entry: Enrollment may occur during any term. Fall term is the start of the program course sequence.
Award: Associate of Applied Science degree
Description: The Health Information Technician (HIT) is a member of the healthcare team who ensures the quality of the medical records by verifying its completeness and accuracy and proper entry into electronic health record systems. The technician uses software applications to assemble and analyze patient data for the purpose of improving patient care and monitoring costs.
The HIT is a specialist in coding diagnoses and procedures using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) utilized for healthcare reimbursement and research. Most HITs work in hospitals, but they are also found in physician practices, longterm care, home health agencies, mental health facilities, public health centers and cancer registries.
This program provides students with a working knowledge of anatomy and physiology, disease processes, informatics, legal and quality management principles, business and computer technology. Students will also learn the practical applications in coding, reimbursement, quality management, health statistics, release of information and data analysis, as well as the ability to utilize software applications that collect, store, process, retrieve and analyze health information.
The NICC HIT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). Program graduates are eligible to write the certification examination and earn a credential as a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) which is offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Program Admission: In addition to the College enrollment process applicants must achieve a minimum ACCUPLACER CLASSIC® reading score of 70 or ACCUPLACER NEXT GENERATION® reading score of 250. ACT® scores are also acceptable.
Academic Requirements: Students enrolled in health occupations programs must complete all required coursework with a “C-” grade or above and earn a minimum 2.0 grade point average to graduate from the program.
Program Requirements: The College has contracted the services of CastleBranch to review and monitor background checks, health records, training requirements and drug testing. Students will submit the following documentation to their website prior to the designated date:
- Background check - includes a nationwide criminal history search and child, dependent adult and sex offender registry checks. Background checks will be evaluated per NICC’s background check policy. Professional Practice Experience participation is dependent on this evaluation.
- Health records - physical and immunizations (MMR, varicella, Hepatitis B, 2 step TB, Tdap and influenza)
- Drug testing - prior to Professional Practice Experience, random, postincident/accident and suspicion. Students are required to be substancefree throughout the program.
In addition to meeting the above listed requirements, students must maintain these requirements throughout the program. Failure to remain compliant will result in denial for Professional Practice Experience participation which is required for program completion.
Minimum Credits: 68
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