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Looking to advance your career in healthcare?
A Health Information Technology Degree in New Orleans LA could be your best move.
This article highlights top programs in New Orleans that offer the skills you need to excel in managing health data.
You’ll find accredited courses, flexible learning options, and key certification information—all designed to help you make an informed decision.
Delgado Community College – Health Information Technology (HIT) Program
Delgado Community College offers a standout Health Information Technology (HIT) program designed to gear you up for a thriving career in health information management.
Key Features:
- Associate of Applied Science Degree: Earn a degree that provides a solid foundation in health information technology.
- National Certification Exam Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the AHIMA-administered RHIT exam.
- CAHIIM Accreditation: Ensures high educational standards.
- Practical Curriculum: Focuses on managing both paper and electronic health data, medical coding, and revenue cycle management.
- Employment Rate: The program boasts an employment rate ranging from 60-100% within a year after graduation.
- Certification Exam Pass Rate: Graduates have an exam pass rate of between 67-100%.
The curriculum covers essential topics such as electronic health records, privacy, and data security. With a high graduation rate of 88-91%, the Delgado HIT program stands out for its quality and effectiveness in preparing students for the health information workplace.
Southern University at New Orleans – Health Information Management Systems (HIMS)
The Health Information Management Systems (HIMS) program at Southern University at New Orleans offers an entirely online education, allowing you to manage your learning around your schedule.
Key Features:
- Fully Online: Complete the program from the comfort of your own home with 8-week courses.
- RHIA Exam Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the AHIMA-administered RHIA exam.
- CAHIIM Accreditation: Assures quality education.
- Robust Curriculum: Covers Information Governance, Compliance, Data Informatics, Revenue Management, and Leadership.
- Employment Rate: Boasts a 100% employment rate for graduates.
This program prepares you for a dynamic career in health information management, emphasizing core areas like healthcare statistics and quality assurance.
Delgado Community College – Health Information Technology (HEIT) Program
Another commendable option from Delgado Community College is their Health Information Technology (HEIT) program. This certificate program is ideal for entering the health information field.
Admission Requirements:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Required for all applicants.
- Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 2.0 is necessary.
- Prerequisite Courses: Must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.
Key Features:
- Competitive Admission: Ensures motivated and qualified students.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Terminology, and Information Management.
For detailed information on costs and duration, contacting the college directly is recommended.
Xavier University of Louisiana – Master of Science in Health Informatics
Xavier University of Louisiana offers a Master of Science in Health Informatics tailored for advancing your professional trajectory in health informatics, available online for convenience.
Key Features:
- Flexible Study Options: Offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, plus a capstone or research project.
- 36 Credit Hours: Complete the program efficiently.
- Specialized Concentrations: Choose from Population Health Informatics, Clinical Informatics, or Bioinformatics.
- Collaborative Efforts: Partners with Ochsner Xavier Institute for Health Equity and Research.
Core Courses:
- Fundamentals of Health Informatics
- Health Data Analysis
- Health Information Systems
Application Deadlines:
- Priority: April 1
- General: May 1
This program equips you with the skills needed to manage health information and analyze patient data effectively.
By exploring these programs at Delgado Community College, Southern University at New Orleans, and Xavier University of Louisiana, you can find the right fit for your career goals in health information technology.
Delgado Community College – Health Information Technology Degree
When considering a Health Information Technology Degree in New Orleans LA, Delgado Community College offers a robust option. Their program provides a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses every aspect of health information services, preparing you for a dynamic career in this field.
At Delgado Community College, the Health Information Technology program awards an Associate of Applied Science degree. This program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). Graduates from this program are eligible to sit for the national certification exam administered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Key Features:
- Associate Degree: A two-year educational pathway specializing in health information services.
- Certification Exam Eligibility: Graduates can sit for the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam.
- Quality Curriculum: Coursework includes Health Information Technology, Legal Aspects of Health Information, Medical Coding, and more.
- General Education Requirements: Supporting courses in Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology, English, and Math enrich your understanding and skillset.
Delgado’s HIT program is a thorough approach to healthcare documentation, coding, and management, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for the RHIT certification.
Southern University at Shreveport – Health Information Technology Program
Providing another excellent option, Southern University at Shreveport (SUSLA) offers an Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Management. This program is also CAHIIM-accredited, which ensures the education you receive meets industry standards.
The HIT program at SUSLA is structured to provide you with the necessary skills in managing health information and electronic health records.
Key Features:
- Associate Degree: A focused curriculum in Health Information Management.
- Certification Exam Opportunity: Graduates qualify for the RHIT certification exam.
- Diverse Curriculum: Integrates business principles, IT, health law, medical coding, and research.
- Career Readiness: Promotes critical-thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge applicable to healthcare settings.
- Faculty Expertise: Qualified instructors ensure that you gain practical and theoretical knowledge.
With a 100% employment rate for graduates, SUSLA’s HIT program positions you for success in the health information management field.
University of New Orleans – BS in Healthcare Management
For those looking to pursue a bachelor’s degree, the University of New Orleans offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management. This program covers various aspects of healthcare management, including critical areas in information technology.
The BS in Healthcare Management program provides a comprehensive education, ensuring you are well-prepared for a career in the healthcare sector.
Key Features:
- Bachelor’s Degree: A multidimensional approach to healthcare management.
- Extensive Curriculum: Includes courses in healthcare ethics, policy, leadership, community health, revenue cycle management, and IT.
- Practical Experience: Students gain hands-on experience through internships and capstone projects.
- Career Opportunities: The program prepares you for diverse roles in healthcare management and IT.
This program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape.
How to Choose the Right Health Information Technology Degree
Selecting the right Health Information Technology Degree in New Orleans LA involves a careful consideration of several key factors. Here’s a guide to help you:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized body like CAHIIM. Accreditation guarantees that the education meets industry standards and qualifies you to sit for certification exams.
- Curriculum: Look for programs with courses that cover essential areas such as medical coding, health data management, privacy, and IT. A well-rounded curriculum prepares you for various roles in health information management.
- Faculty Expertise: Check the credentials of the teaching staff. Faculty with real-world experience in health informatics can provide practical insights and high-quality education.
- Career Support Services: Evaluate the support offered for job placement and internships. Programs that provide career counseling, resume workshops, and networking opportunities can significantly enhance your job prospects.
- Flexibility: Consider online or hybrid program options if you need flexibility due to work or personal commitments. Online courses can provide the same quality education with greater convenience.
- Graduate Outcomes: Research graduation rates, employment rates, and certification exam pass rates. These metrics give you a sense of the program’s effectiveness and your potential success after graduation.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition fees and check the availability of financial aid or scholarships. Managing the financial aspects of your education is crucial for long-term success.
By weighing these factors carefully, you can choose a health information technology program that aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
Conclusion
Pursuing a Health Information Technology Degree in New Orleans LA is a promising step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. Whether you choose the detailed associate programs from Delgado Community College or Southern University at Shreveport, or opt for a bachelor’s degree at the University of New Orleans, you’ll be well-equipped to make a significant impact in managing health information. Evaluate the key features, weigh your options, and start your journey toward becoming a health information professional today.